Free hearing and heart health checks initiative launched

Broadcaster and Hidden Hearing ambassador Marty Morrissey has launched a new nationwide health initiative between Hidden Hearing and the Irish Heart Foundation at the National Ploughing Championships.

The collaboration brings together the expertise of both organisations to deliver free hearing health and heart health checks to communities across Ireland. Using both organisations’ Mobile Health Units, the initiative will bring vital preventive care directly to rural and underserved communities.

Each year, the Irish Heart Foundation’s Mobile Health Unit delivers up to 10,000 free blood pressure checks, as well as pulse checks, along with lifestyle advice nationwide. With 67% of people over 50 in Ireland living with high blood pressure, a leading cause of heart disease, stroke and heart attacks, the need for early detection has never been greater.

The Irish Heart Foundation’s Mobile Health Unit, with the support of Hidden Hearing, is set to expand its range of health checks with the addition of free earwax checks and video otoscopy to check ear health.

Members of the public will be able to drop in, with no appointment needed, for a free hearing health check provided by Hidden Hearing, alongside a free blood pressure check and heart health consultation from the Irish Heart Foundation’s nurses, at the Health Units visiting their localities over the coming weeks and months.

Speaking at the launch, Duncan Graham, General Manager of Hidden Hearing, said: “At Hidden Hearing, we believe in breaking down barriers to essential healthcare. By joining forces with the Irish Heart Foundation, we are making it simple and convenient for people to prioritise both their hearing and their heart.”

Emma Balmaine, CEO of the Irish Heart Foundation, added: “High blood pressure is a silent killer in Ireland. Thanks to Hidden Hearing’s support, we can reach more communities than ever with vital, free checks that empower people to take control of their health, and potentially save lives.”

Hidden Hearing ambassador, Marty Morrissey said “Ireland’s strength has always been in our communities, and this initiative brings vital health services right to the heart of those communities. By offering free checks in towns and villages across the country, the Irish Heart Foundation and Hidden Hearing are making sure that no one is left behind when it comes to their health.”

The Irish Heart Foundation’s Mobile Health Unit will also visit a number of Hidden Hearing clinics over the coming months, where services will include:

1. Free hearing checks from Hidden Hearing specialists

2. Free blood pressure and pulse checks from the Irish Heart Foundation nurses

3. Lifestyle and health advice to support long-term well being