HCF Wollongong encourages locals to put their health first with free heart health checks
WOLLONGONG, 27 SEPTEMBER, 2017: HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, has once again partnered with The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute to offer free heart health checks for members with extras at HCF Wollongong. Now in its fifth year, the partnership between HCF and Victor Chang tests members for risk factors that could affect their heart. To date, Victor Chang has tested 55,000 Australians through its Health Check Booths across the country.
The Victor Chang Health Check Booth will be operating from 27 - 29 September, 2017, and includes three quick health tests — blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose – to help members understand and track these factors that can impact their heart health.
HCF Wollongong’s 2016 program highlighted a need for local members to put their health first, with almost a quarter (23%) of tested members presenting with high cholesterol, 76% not knowing their cholesterol levels and over half, (59%) not knowing their blood pressure. 30% of tested members were also recommended to visit a GP for further assessment and health management.i
HCF Wollongong Branch Manager, Daniela Mitrevski hopes locals will take advantage of this free health benefit to the local community.
“The Victor Chang Heart Heath Checks are a great way to empower our local members to take charge of their heart health, so we’re really excited to welcome the booth to our local branch.
“With the results of the quick and easy tests available on the spot, it gives our members immediate knowledge around how they are tracking and their individual heart heath. I would encourage all members with extras to come down and take advantage of the checks,” said Mitrevski.
The Heart Health Checks are free for members with extras cover thanks to HCF’s ongoing partnership with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, a not-for-profit charity dedicated to fighting cardiovascular disease through research.
Tips for a healthy heart
According to the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, there are some simple ways that Wollongong residents can maintain a healthy heart:
- Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and choose lean meats and poultry.
- Cut down on salt.
- Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every day.
- Curb your alcohol intake. No more than one or two standard alcoholic drinks per day is recommended.
- Quit smoking.
- Know your risk factors for heart disease.
-ENDS-
Issued on behalf of HCF by WE Buchan. Media inquiries to:
- Ellen McIver
Ph: (02) 9237 2814
M: 0414 137 686
E: emciver@buchanwe.com.au
- Sophia Brockman
Ph: (02) 9237 2815
M: 0416 558 002
E: sbrockman@buchanwe.com.au
About HCF
HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund protecting people since 1932, covers around 1.5 million members with health and life insurance, community care, travel and pet insurance. On average over the last five years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average. With over 35,000 specialists participating in its Medical Gap Cover Scheme and approximately 10,000 providers participating in its 100% back More for You programs, HCF gives members access to quality healthcare with no gaps or minimal costs compared to non-participating providers. To empower members to put their health first, HCF also offers a range of health and lifestyle services including its My Health Guardian health management program, mobile Victor Chang Heart Health Checks and My Global Specialist second opinion service. HCF’s national network of retail outlets and Australian-based call centres have earned multi-award winning status. HCF members also have access to low cost, high quality services at HCF Dental Centres. Having contributed $50 million to support the health services research funded by the HCF Research Foundation, HCF is devoted to investing in the future of Australia’s health. To learn more about HCF go to hcf.com.au/about-us
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iData sourced from Victor Chang Heart Health Checks, Wollongong 2016: 141 members with extras were tested for their blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Members were also asked whether they knew their levels or not.