A new survey conducted by the Heart Foundation found that 64% of people aged between 45 and 74 had not had a Heart Health Check with their GP in the past two years.
This is despite more than half of that cohort having either high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or being told that they are at high risk of heart disease by a doctor.
In response to this, the Heart Foundation is urging Australian clinicians to get back on track with preventative cardiovascular screening activities, now more than ever.
“Cardiovascular disease prevention has never been so critical. The disruption caused by the pandemic, combined with healthcare provider burnout and emerging data on the impact of Covid-19 infection on adverse cardiovascular outcomes has created a perfect storm of risk,” said Heart Foundation interim CEO, Professor Garry Jennings.
When asked what would motivate them to see their GP for a Heart Health Check, more than half of participants stated that a recommendation by their GP would be the biggest motivator for booking a Heart Health Check.
“It is clear through these findings that GPs and nurses have the power to make a difference – your recommendation or invitation for a preventative checkup is the most powerful tool we have to encourage this essential screening activity,” Professor Jennings said.
Professor Jennings applauds the efforts of GPs, nurses and general practice staff across the country who, with all the other demands have collectively delivered over 275,000 Heart Health Checks since the 699 and 177 MBS items were introduced in 2019.
“Amidst the ongoing stresses and burnout from living with Covid-19, vaccination programs and other uncertainties faced by general practice, primary care clinicians have really stepped up to continue offering these life-saving checks,” he said.
“This Heart Week (2–8 May), the Heart Foundation is encouraging health professionals to make good use of the Heart Health Check Toolkit to easily assess and manage CVD risk in their eligible patients.”
Over 53,000 people have accessed the health professional Toolkit since it was introduced in 2021, including Heart Health Check assessment and management templates, quality improvement tools and patient engagement resources.
“New resources have been introduced during Heart Week to support the clinical management of high cholesterol and encourage a healthy lifestyle, so be sure to browse and bookmark the Toolkit,” Professor Jennings said.
