Free health checks in the Live Better Van

FREE health checks will be available through Heathcote Health next week.

The Medibank Live Better Van will visit Heathcote Health on Thursday 4 September between 10am and 2pm.

The van will be in the rear carpark at Heathcote Health.

The Live Better Van provides a private and comfortable space where community members can discuss their health needs.

“The free checks include BMI, blood pressure, heart rate, perceived stress and more,” said health promotion officer Meagan Forder.

“The Medibank Live Better Van is open for everyone in the community.”

Diabetes educator Paul Skipper will be available to answer any questions at Daanboor Bagiin, 104 High Street, Heathcote from 10am to 12pm on Monday 1 September.

“Paul Skipper is a credentialed diabetes educator and registered nurse with experience in the Diabetes field since 2007,” said Ms Forder.

“He has been a Registered Nurse since 2000.

“Paul currently works… at Heathcote Health, the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Cooperative and in private practice (Happy Diabetes Health), while also providing chronic care co-ordination for the First Nations people of the Dja Dja Wurrung.

“He can assist people ensuring they obtain the best possible education to reduce the co-morbidities associated with such a diagnosis.”

Next week is Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week, Australia’s largest event dedicated to the health and wellbeing of all women, girls and gender-diverse people.

The State Government’s virtual women’s health clinic is open to all Victorian women and girls of any age.

“It offers free, expert advice for a range of women’s health needs,” said Ms Forder.

“The clinic is led by specialist nurses, and can provide medical advice remotely via telehealth, online or via phone call- including sexual health, menstrual health, menopause care, cervical screening, breast health care, and pregnancy termination care.

“The clinic is operated in partnership with community health organisation EACH, and aims to reduce the barriers and delays in accessing care.

“In addition to treating immediate health needs, referrals can be made to various support services including mental health and wellbeing, alcohol and other drugs, as well as family violence support.”

The virtual women’s health clinic is available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm by calling 1300 003 224 or via an online form at each.com.au/services/virtual-womens-health-clinic.