Screenings a success; some referred to doctors

A pay-as-you-go health screening effort spearheaded by DHHS Human Resources, Employee Safety and Benefits Section is paying off.

Of 95 employees screened in Raleigh Jan. 25-26, three were immediately referred to doctors with identified life-threatening ailments. Several others discovered less severe problems that require medical attention and possible modifications of diet, medication and exercise.

The screenings include checking for problems with carotid and peripheral arteries, thyroid gland, gallbladder, kidneys, spleen, pancreas, blood pressure, bone density, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and liver function. Screenings earlier this year found three employees with severely high blood pressure, one with an abnormal abdominal mass. Of 50 screened for cholesterol, 34 were found to have abnormal lipids.

“This is part of our offering to help our employees maintain the best health possible during their careers in state government,” said Kathy Gruer, Human Resources Division director. “Those who learn of problems or potential problems are advised to seek appropriate medical care or treatment.

“We’re happy to see that this screening has helped employees. We are looking to offer this to our employees in Butner, Morganton and in the Kinston-Goldsboro areas this spring, and we are planning to offer it again in Raleigh next fall.”

Fees range from $19 to $39 per screening. Costs for screenings may be drawn from NC Flex Health Care Spending accounts. The screenings are performed by Ultrascreen, a North Carolina-based company.

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