Since the re-introduction of the Vhi free health checks scheme in September 2022, health assessments have been made available at 540 self-service stations in workplaces nationwide to encourage active monitoring of health and wellbeing, generating 50,000 free self-service health checks over a two-year period.
The on-the-spot health assessment stations at workplaces and other sites across the country, provided by Ireland’s healthcare provider in partnership with Sisu Health, measure blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI) and perceived stress, as well as screening for diabetes and cardiovascular risks. Participating users can subsequently benefit from lifestyle advice on a range of health issues through an integrated portal, with signposting provided to GPs in cases of identified health risks.
Since the re-introduction of the Vhi free health checks scheme in September 2022, health assessments have been made available at 540 self-service stations in workplaces nationwide to encourage active monitoring of health and wellbeing, generating 50,000 free self-service health checks over a two-year period.
Following the introduction of the health check stations, more than 9,000 people were recommended to contact their GP following a health assessment. These referrals encourage early intervention in cases of health risk and help to reduce the likelihood of developing chronic illness. More than half of those who used the health stations (21,000) had not received a BP check in the past 12 months prior to screening, with 14.3% of those assessed recording high BP.
Other insights include:
- 16% of all participants recorded high BP, 49% of all men measuring ‘at risk’ to high.
- 2002 health checks triggered a ‘GP Call to Action’ for high BP (140/90) and or high BMI (35+).
- 16% of participants indicated that they are a smoker, a little under the 18% national average as published by the HSE.
Prof Charlie Foster, Head of Population Health, Vhi said: “Encouraging team employees and members to actively monitor and look after their health through regular checks can drastically reduce the risk of developing chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease. Benefits are also seen by employers who see happier, healthier and stronger employees alongside real costs savings in reductions in the impacts of smoking and poor mental health.
“By providing quick and easy access to health checks in workplaces and other sites around the country, we’re empowering members to identify and address health risks early on and help them to achieve better health outcomes. This is one of the many ways in which Vhi is driving innovation in how healthcare is delivered and helping our members live longer, stronger and happier lives.”
For more information visit: www.vhi.ie/employers
