Pulse,

From my understanding, the WorkHealth (health checks in Victoria paid for by the Vic government) Pilot program finished up in March this year. Overall it must have been quite successful as the program is increasing in size to cover most of the state as of July 2009, and then the whole state as of early 2010.

While the health check is basic (cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure and waist circumference) it is a good starting point and on such a big scale it should proof successful in increasing the awareness of employee health across the state.

It will be interesting to see how it goes over the next 12 months as I am sure many other states are watching on.

Ben

I understand the pilot study for the health assessments is about to be wrapped up. Has anyone heard of any outcomes so far?

I came across one of the program booklets for the 'work safe' program and although brief it did appear to have some good, easy to understand info.

Does anyone have any more info on the progress of this initiative?

Cheers,

I agree from both angles. It is a great initiative and will definitely raise awareness of health in the workplace. The awareness alone will hopefully assist in creating a cultural change, however it is difficult to see how this limited support will tackle severe chronic disease.

If more resources are given to those who really need it now, then the health education and resources given to the younger more healthy employee's will be limited. This will then likely result in this group not getting the required knowledge to assist them to avoid future health issues.

Definitely an interesting approach.

Ben

Hello,

I agree that it is a good idea but I do also question the longevity of the program. $20 per person is not much at all, and I do not think changes in lifestyle factors could occur in one appointment.

Health problems cost Australia billions each year and although it is a start I believe it is a vain attempt at tackling a much bigger issue. Where does it stop but, how much money is needed to see changes in lifestyle related problems?? Or is it the length of the program that makes a difference??

Any thoughts?

Cheers

Hey Everyone,

I just read an interesting article about the Victorian Premier announcing an initiative for free health checks for all VIC workers! The article from the Age can be found here: http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/premier-gives-tick-to-free-health-test/2008/03/18/1205602384139.html
I think the idea is excellent and it will raise awareness of lifestyle diseases in Australia. So big kudos to the Premier!
My biggest question/concern was in relation to cost per participant, and the long term goals of the program.
The article mentions it works out to be $20 per person tested, which does not sound like much for a whole year! Also, if they are just being told they are overweight then that isn't going to provide them with the tools to succeed in the future, right?. These are just a few of my thoughts, what does everyone else think???

Also, nice forum! I have been keeping an eye on it for some time now and is has good info that we have found beneficial. Can't find anything else like it, good idea!

Pulse