RICHARD.DAVISON@cluthaleader.co.nz
Clutha Health First (CHF) is reaching out to men in their native habitat from Tuesday, as it conducts basic health checks in local pubs.
CHF clinical director Gary Reed said the practice recognised Clutha’s rural men were sometimes challenged to find time and motivation for quick ‘‘once over’’ health checks, which could be vital in preventive medicine.
In an effort to connect with those groups, nursing teams would conduct two-hour drop-in check-up sessions at four local hostelries during men’s health month Movember, he said.
‘‘Covid has put the lid on some of our outreach efforts during the past couple of years, but now we’re getting back to normal, we’re keen to get things rolling once again.
‘‘Rural men from 30 to 50 are quite tricky to get into clinic, as they’re busy working, and tend to say, ‘I feel hunky-dory; it’s all good’. This is a way of bringing those quick and easy tests to them, in a relaxed setting, and hopefully catching some of the common problems early so the chance of a successful outcome is increased.’’
Mr Reed praised the four pubs for their participation.
‘‘They’ve had no hesitation in stepping up and helping promote these events. We’ve chosen what they’ve identified as busy nights, so we’ll be pleased if we get 20 or so men getting tested at each one.’’
The health check would take about five minutes, and involved a thumb-prick blood test for cholesterol, blood sugar and uric acid levels, and blood pressure and weight checks, he said.
‘‘General health advice is the order of the day, along with the ability to ask any questions that come to mind.’’
Anyone checked would be entered into a draw for prizes donated by local businesses supporting the initiative.
• Clutha Men’s Health Outreach Clinics (all 6pm-8pm): November 1 and 30, Greenfield Tavern, Clydevale; November 3, Crescent Bar, Kaitangata; November 4, Rosebank Lodge, Balclutha and Crossroads Clinton.
