HCF has teamed up with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute to provide its members, who are 18 years or older with both hospital and extras coverage, access to no-cost heart health assessments.
HCF head of health and wellbeing Linda Opie pointed out the pressing issue of heart disease across the nation.
“Heart disease is a significant health concern, with around 57,000 Australians experiencing a heart attack each year,” she said. “However, by taking proactive measures like understanding individual risk factors and monitoring heart health, many cases can potentially be prevented.”
The evaluations are designed for efficiency and convenience, requiring less than 10 minutes to complete.
Conducted by specialists from the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, the assessments focus on critical heart disease risk factors, including blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure. Participants are provided with an immediate snapshot of their heart health and guidance on next steps for maintaining or improving their cardiovascular well-being.
For those identified with any risk factors, HCF – which has been recognised for excellent customer service – will ensure a smooth transition into its complimentary health & wellbeing programs, which offer resources for managing weight, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health challenges.
Echoing the significance of preventive measures, Professor Jason Kovacic, director and CEO of Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, emphasised that lifestyle adjustments are key to bolstering heart health for the majority of people.
“Prevention, detection, and effective treatment are our best weapons against heart disease and stroke,” he said. “By quitting smoking, eating a nutritious diet, and doing the right kind of exercise, improving your heart health can be relatively simple for most people.”
Currently available at select HCF locations in New South Wales, the program is planned to extend to additional regions, including the Australian Capital Territory, Western Australia, Victoria, and South Australia, in the near future.
