LIVERPOOL, 28 August, 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 Liverpool. The partnership between HCF and Victor Chang, now in its fifth year, has seen almost 50,000 members tested across Australia for risk factors that could affect their heart.

The Victor Chang Health Check Booth will be operating from 28 - 30 August, 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’s 2016 program highlighted a need for local members to put their health first, with nearly a third (30%) of tested members presenting with high cholesterol, 72% not knowing their cholesterol levels and over half, (54%) not knowing their blood pressure. 32% of tested members were also recommended to visit a GP for further assessment and health management.¹

HCF Liverpool Branch Manager, Joe Musumeci says last year’s results highlight that locals should remain diligent in assessing their heart health.

“The Heart Health Checks are a fantastic way for our local members to ensure they are looking after their Health. Looking at last year’s results, there are some key changes that can be made to improve our Liverpool local’s health outcomes. We’re proud to offer the community a range of services that will encourage our members to make informed, positive changes to their lifestyle habits,” Joe Musumeci said.

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.

Liverpool residents can also make use of the many digital tools and free online resources from HCF to help them reach their health and fitness goals. HCF’s suite of healthy apps includes a Get Fitter app, offering advice and tailored exercise plans, a Be Happier app, including tools to improve mental and emotional wellbeing, and a Quit Smoking app to help smokers stay focused on their smoke-free goals.

Tips for a healthy heart

According to the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, there are some simple ways that Liverpool 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. For more information, contact:

• Ellen McIver
  P:(02) 9237 2814
  M:0414 137 686
  E: emciver@buchanwe.com.au
• Sophia Brockman
  P:(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

¹Data sourced from Victor Chang Heart Health Checks, Liverpool 2016:192 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.