Public Health has installed a free, self-service health station at Northern Swimming Pool for the public to check key health indicators such as blood pressure, weight and heart rate.
Anyone aged 16 and over can use the health station’s touch screen instructions for a health check that takes about five minutes and will help to prevent ill health by identifying risk factors earlier.
The SISU Health Station measures cardiovascular risk, height, weight, blood pressure, heart rate, BMI, body composition and includes two short surveys on alcohol intake and stress. The service is an accessible option in a non-clinical setting for people who may not regularly attend GP appointments.
For those who have GP health checks, routine screening will provide added value - users can use the system’s health app to measure and track their results. The service signposts users to local services for support and advice if results reveal possible health issues.
The Health Station is available in Ramsey for 12 months and is supported by Ramsey Group Practice and the Northern Health and Care Community. Anonymised data from the station will also help Public Health understand local health trends, risk factors, and community needs.
Dr Matt Tyrer, Director of Public Health said:
‘The health station brings the Island important benefits. It provides a simple way to help take control of your health, take any action early and maintain your independence. The service offers an easy alternative to a GP health check that fits into everyday life, and it helps Public Health to build a clearer picture of local needs so that we can plan services and support more effectively, potentially reducing demand on wider health services.
‘If the first twelve months are successful, Public Health aims to provide the health station on a more permanent basis and explore access at other points in the Island. Ramsey was chosen as the first location because it is a large, rural area with strong supporting health and wellbeing partnerships already in place.’
Minister for the Cabinet Office, David Ashford MBE MHK, said:
‘This is a key step in making health checks more accessible for everyone. The simple and quick self-service checks will encourage people to take an active role in their own health and wellbeing and the health station supports our wider objective of helping people to stay well for longer by identifying risks earlier.’
