Residents in Bairnsdale have received free blood pressure checks thanks to Monash medical students participating in May Measurement Month, part of the world’s largest synchronized blood pressure screening campaign.
Monash Rural Health Gippsland set up a free screening station outside the local Woolworths supermarket, where 25 residents took advantage of the quick health check. Participants with elevated readings were provided with educational resources and encouraged to visit their GP to discuss preventative measures and management plans.
The initiative highlights a critical regional health focus; in 2023, the Gippsland Healthy Heart Study revealed that up to 85 per cent of adults in the region may be living with an unaddressed risk of cardiovascular disease, including undetected high blood pressure.
Monash Rural Health Gippsland community engagement coordinator Lynette McGowan said the screening day allowed students to hone their clinical skills while actively contributing to regional health outcomes.
“Initiatives like this have wonderful benefits for both our students and the community,” Mrs McGowan said.
“Our students improve their communication skills — which are hugely important for their future medical careers — but more importantly, making these checks accessible helps improve the health of locals here in Bairnsdale.”
