A mobile health unit with specialised medical equipment is coming to Mackay and Proserpine next month, offering free lung checks to former and retired Queensland mine and quarry workers.
The mobile health unit, known as HEART5, features state-of-the-art medical equipment to provide the required screening examinations.
That includes a lung function test and chest X-ray, and follow-up tests needed to investigate possible abnormalities, such as high-resolution CT scans, if required.
HEART5 is operated by Heart of Australia in partnership with Resources Safety and Health Queensland, and the Queensland Government.
Since its launch in February 2022, free checks on board HEART5 have helped detect mine dust lung disease in former workers across regional and remote Queensland.
“I really urge all former and retired mine and quarry workers to have their free lung check,” said RSHQ’s Executive Director of Occupational Health Dean Barr.
“Lung disease can sometimes take 10 years or more to develop after a worker finishes in the industry.
“If you are diagnosed early that means you can access treatment as soon as possible, potentially slow the progression of disease, and apply for workers’ compensation entitlements.”
Eligible former Queensland mine and quarry workers are entitled to one free check at least every five years, for life.
Former workers can request a free lung health check at a local authorised doctor or on-board HEART5 by contacting the Mine Dust Health Support Services on 1300 445 715.
Upcoming 'HEART 5' dates and locations:
Proserpine
Whitsunday Gold Coffee, Bruce Highway, Proserpine: 8 November 2023
Mackay
Resources Centre of Excellence, 65 Crichtons Road, Paget: 9-10 November 2023
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