A LIFE-SAVING NHS health check programme for workers has been launched in Solihull.
The Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne, revealed plans for the NHS Health Checks workplace programme during a visit to Jaguar Land Rover.
The £6.6million national programme will mean Solihull Council joins forces with local employers for the first time to offer comprehensive heart health checks that can detect the preventable causes of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and kidney disease, as well some cases of dementia.
Solihull is set to receive £160,000 to provide 4,000 life-saving health checks, helping to save people from diseases such as heart, kidney and diabetes.
The checks, which can be completed quickly and easily for employees at work, record a range of information about each patient, which is then used to determine their cardiovascular risk.
Employers from a range of professions will take part in the programme including those from the building sector, hospitality and transport sectors and the social care sector.
The announcement is part of the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Health and Social Care’s commitment to supporting the government’s mission to boost economic growth by improving the health of the nation.
With every check providing the equivalent of an NHS appointment, these checks will save thousands of hours of valuable NHS time, helping to cut waiting lists and rebuild the NHS.
During his visit, Mr Gwynne got to see first-hand how these checks work and why they are so vital.
He said: “It’s been fantastic to visit Solihull to see the NHS health checks programme in action.
“We know so many deadly diseases can be avoided if we seek help in enough time. That’s why we’re working to improve access to treatment while also taking steps to address the preventable causes of cardiovascular disease.
“This innovative new programme is an important step towards community-focused healthcare and supporting economic and productivity through improving health, shifting the focus from treatment to prevention, easing the strain on the NHS and helping people to live well for longer.”
The government says the new programme will aim to reach more people through their place of work and make it more convenient for people to understand and improve their cardiovascular health.
People aged 40 to 74 who have not received an NHS Health Check in the last five years can speak to their GP or local council public health team to find out if they are eligible, and where they can access a check.
Councillor Louise Gittins, chair of the Local Government Association, said: “Health checks can save lives. They can prevent people from developing largely preventable diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, Type 2 diabetes and liver disease.
“Councils are exploring new ways to boost uptake, targeting individuals or communities at increased risk, and using proactive outreach programs to get into those communities who are less likely to attend their general practice.
“However, there is more that can be done, and by partnering council and employers, we can make sure more people get a health check and hopefully prevent illness later on.”
