News-County Durham to benefit from life-saving health checks to tackle cardiovascular disease

We are one of 48 local authorities across the country to have been selected to deliver the Department of Health and Social Care pilot scheme. It will see us partner with local employers for the first time to offer health checks that can detect the preventable causes of cardiovascular disease and other health conditions.

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 be invited to take part in the programme.

The announcement is part of the Health and Social Care Secretary's commitment to supporting the government's mission to boost economic growth by improving the health of the nation. 

These checks are expected to save thousands of hours of valuable NHS time, helping to cut waiting lists.

Improving access

Andrew Gwynne, Minister for Public Health and Prevention, said: "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."  

Lifesaving checks

Amanda Healy, our Director of Public Health, said: "We are delighted our application to be a part of this pilot scheme was successful. Our vision is for all County Durham residents to lead long, healthy, happy and independent lives. Regular health checks are key to ensuring signs of cardiovascular disease and other conditions are identified early, increasing the chances of recovery. However, with many of us juggling work, family and caring commitments, it can sometimes be a struggle to find time to put ourselves first.

"By delivering Workplace Health Checks in partnership with employers - both big and small - across the county, we can reach people we know are less likely to seek help. It will allow us to offer potentially lifesaving blood pressure and BMI checks, while also providing an opportunity to share valuable health and wellbeing advice in a setting where people feel safe and comfortable."

More than 16 million people are eligible for an NHS Health Check, but current data shows that only around 40 per cent of those invited went on to complete one. This is especially true for men, who are less likely to get early help but who are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease at an earlier age than women. 

Reaching more people

This 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 5 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. 

Cllr 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."