Government Introduces Workplace Health Checks To Determine the Risk of Heart Disease

Today, 480 people in the UK will die from heart issues. That’s according to the British Heart Foundation and could be part of the reason why the government is rolling out life-saving workplace health checks. Below, we examine cardiovascular disease in the UK, the government’s heart disease prevention plans, and why this is important for businesses.

UK Workforce Impacted by Heart Disease

In January this year, the British Heart Foundation published a factsheet detailing the prevalence of heart disease in the UK. The charity revealed that 7.6 million people currently live with heart issues, causing a death every three minutes.

In the context of employment, this pervasive issue contributes to workplace absenteeism and unemployment. As per the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), cardiovascular disease is the primary health problem causing people to resign. What’s more, 30% of those economically inactive due to ill health have a condition with their heart.

This is significant, especially when you factor in that many individuals suffering from heart issues are of working age. That being said, according to the IPPR, “​​Heart disease is highly preventable, with around 80 per cent of heart disease deaths being avoidable”. This is excellent news and probably a compelling reason why the government has rolled out its workplace health checks.

Government to Combat Cardiovascular Disease with Free Workplace Health Checks

Despite more than 16 million people being eligible for an NHS health check, more than half of those invited don’t utilise the service. Councillor Jonathan Owen stated, “Only about 40% of people who are offered a check take it up”. 

This is concerning, especially after highlighting that many heart issues can be avoided. Mr Owen emphasised, “These checks save lives, and it’s estimated that nationally, 300 premature deaths per year are prevented through the programme”.

Consequently, the government has decided to provide over 130,000 people with free workplace health checks. The new initiative rolled out on 30 August 2024, will aim to improve health outcomes and reduce NHS waiting lists by highlighting those that require cardiovascular disease treatment, among other things.

The Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne, said, “We know so many deadly diseases can be avoided if we seek help in enough time. That’s why we’re working to improve access to treatment while also taking steps to address the preventable causes of cardiovascular disease”.

Among the areas selected to provide these workplace health checks, Derbyshire, Walsall, Kent, and Shropshire will take part. As for employers, a range of industries, including the building, hospitality and transport sectors, will be involved.

Workplace Health Checks: How Employee Health Drives Business Success

Aside from the obvious health risks associated with heart disease, the medical condition can provide a whole host of issues in the workplace. For instance, many studies have confirmed a connection between good health and productivity.

If employees are in good health, their overall productivity, cognitive function and workplace performance will likely improve. Conversely, the opposite is anticipated if employees aren’t in good health.

Absenteeism and presenteeism, the latter meaning being in attendance but unproductive due to one’s health, also increases when someone’s unwell. This can lead to decreased productivity, which is again bad for business, but can also cause financial issues. It’s been reported that presenteeism costs the UK economy at least £15.1 billion each year. As a result, workers present whilst suffering from cardiovascular diseases could be adding to the financial strain.

With the above in mind, it’s no wonder the new workplace health checks have been rolled out. In addition to promoting good health, free assessments could improve productivity at work and reduce the financial burden of presenteeism.

And even for employers who aren’t currently eligible for the free NHS health checks, it may be worth considering supplying an alternative for their workforce. This is because, since everyone values good health and well-being, providing such a benefit could assist with talent retention and recruitment.

Overall, free workplace health checks are a promising step forward. These assessments can potentially prevent avoidable deaths and deliver significant benefits for employers. If you have any concerns about your cardiovascular health, please consider contacting:

Have Your Employment Rights Been Affected?

Under the Equality Act 2010, employers are legally responsible for providing reasonable adjustments to disabled individuals. Such adjustments could include time off for appointments or providing equipment that makes an employee’s job easier. If an employer fails to meet their obligations, they could be liable to pay compensation.

Should you have a heart condition that classifies as a disability and your employer fails to provide the appropriate adjustments, you may be eligible to make a claim. If this is you, and you want expert advice, consider contacting Redmans Solicitors now. As specialists in the field, we can discuss your case and advise you on your eligibility.

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