Hospital Promotes ‘Workplace Wellness’ and Sets Example for Corporates

Should truth be told, the obsession for a six pack is a far better fitness motivator than general well being and health. Gyms and fitness centres are sprouting in every nook and corner of a locality. Well, one has to admit, that it’s a satisfying sight to see a balance between clinics and fitness centres in the same lane as opposed to a lonely speciality clinic or a clinic secluded for private practice. However, the hoarding outside Frontier Lifeline Hospital, celebrating the World Heart Federation’s theme of ‘Workplace Wellness: Take Responsibility of for Your Own Heart Health’ from September 26^th to October 6^th 2010, sparked curiosity among many passers-by. Remember, remember the 26th of September!

Every year, 26^th September is celebrated as World Heart Day insisting that it is every individual’s responsibility to take care of the health of his or her own heart. Dr. Subramaniam, Chief Cardiologist at Frontier Lifeline, explains the meaning behind the theme, because a workplace is the ideal setting to inculcate in people the ideal behaviour for the well being of their heart. Also, the work place is where people spend most of their waking hours, so it is a must when health is in prime condition.

Schedule a Lifestyle

Patients, relatives and passers-by, stopped to ask questions on ‘Workplace Wellness’ at Lifeline Frontier Hospital and the employees at the hospital, from doctors to physiotherapists were more than willing to educate anyone who had questions on heart care. The highlights are laid by the World Heart Federation which emphasises on healthy eating habits, quitting smoking and exercising regularly. Dr. Subramaniam also advocates people to know their numbers, such as blood pressure, body weight, blood sugar levels etc.

Setting an Example

At Frontier Lifeline, caring for the heart is not a one week affair. Even Chief Doctor K.M. Cherian, takes the stairs and advices the staff to do the same. Smokers usually leave the premises but are however discouraged to smoke for the well being of others and themselves. Counselling is given by trained Physiotherapists to help people quit smoking. Adding to the already existing facilities, the cafeteria serves healthy food and celebrates Healthy Food Week and conducts cooking programmes to show how to make low fat meals. The staff members are compulsorily made to take their time off and are encouraged stress free movements. Apart from periodical free medical checks and subsidised treatment for the staff’s family, the responsibility of the staff is clearly stated leaving no room for surprises. Periodical meets and staff birthdays are celebrated to ensure a healthy working environment.

A Hearty Welcome

On 26^th September 2010, camps were set in city schools and rural areas where people were educated on the preventive measures of heart disease and complications and free screening was also provided. The school camp held in Ambattur had almost 300 children and 180 parents educated and screened as part of the World Heart Day programme. The team consisted of cardiologists, doctors, nurses, local camp coordinator and technicians to operate the ECG. In reality the camps are actually held on a regular basis in and outside of Tamil Nadu. The programme on health education and screening are also conducted in public sectors and private software companies. The efforts are always well received by people.

Frequently Asked Questions on Heart & Keeping it Healthy

Specific concerns arise, if the family has had a history of heart disease. Such cases therefore are referred to dieticians who encourage questions from patients and closely related people. Stress is a major factor, though not the only factor that causes heart disease. So counsellors meet with smokers, another accelerator for stress and deteriorating health condition.

The one week programme from the 26^th of September to the 6^th of October 2010 was admittedly the highlight of the concerns regarding heart and its well being. Hence by setting an example as to how a workplace should be, and driving the need for employers and employees to maintain a smoke free and healthy working environment as essential, Frontier Lifelineat Mogappair, Chennai, South India continues to practice what its health experts advocate.

Source-Medindia