Thursday, 9 May, 2024
Heart Foundation Welcomes Tasmanian Government’s Commitment to Heart Health
The Heart Foundation welcomes the Tasmanian Government’s proactive measures to tackle cardiovascular disease in the state, as announced by Health Minister Guy Barnett today during Heart Week.
The Government’s commitment to a comprehensive state-wide cardiac strategy and action plan offers a significant step forward towards reducing Tasmania’s high rate of cardiovascular disease.
The plan, which includes the establishment of a Northern Heart Centre at Launceston General Hospital, will help to enhance cardiology services across the state, focusing on prevention, detection, diagnosis, treatment, and research.
Dr Joce Nettlefold, Heart Foundation General Manager for Tasmania, said:
“We strongly welcome the Government’s dedication to the heart health of Tasmanians.
“Today’s announcement during Heart Week delivers on the Government’s election commitment. It wiill ensure Tasmania receives a boost to efforts to drive down the higher than average rates of cardiovascular disease in the state.
“The announced strategy outlines a decade-long plan to address the specific needs of Tasmanians requiring cardiac services.
“We are particularly supportive of the focus on establishing a dedicated cardiology ward and expanding critical testing capacities, which are crucial steps towards reducing the burden of heart disease in Tasmania.”
The Heart Foundation urges all Tasmanians aged 45 or over, or 30 if First Nations, to not miss a beat this Heart Week by speaking with their GP about a Heart Health Check.
For more information about Heart Health Checks please visit the Heart Foundation’s website at www.heartfoundation.org.au
Media enquiries
Shaun Inguanzo, Media Manager, Heart Foundation
M: 0404 769 054 E: media@heartfoundation.org.au
Key Facts:
- Per capita, Tasmania has the second worst rate of cardiovascular disease (CVD) related deaths in Australia at 168 deaths per 100,000 people.
- The Heart Foundation therefore strongly welcomes today's announcement and notes the Government is acting on its election commitment.
-This week is Heart Week in Australia, and Tasmanians aged 45 and over (30 and over if First Nations) are encouraged to see their GP for a Medicare Heart Health Check, as the symptoms of heart disease are often silent.
About us:
About the Heart Foundation
The Heart Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to fighting the single biggest killer of Australians – heart disease. For more than 60 years, it has led the battle to save lives and improve the heart health of all Australians. Its sights are set on a world where people don’t suffer or die prematurely because of heart disease.
Find out your risk of heart attack or stroke by using our Heart Age Calculator. To find out about the Heart Foundation’s research program or to make a donation, visit www.heartfoundation.org.au
Contact details:
Shaun Inguanzo
Media Manager
0404 769 054
