“Medbank” has developed a program to prevent hypertension in drivers.

The results of a corporate cardiovascular risk prevention program targeting drivers have been summarized. According to monitoring results, the risk of developing hypertension in the observed group decreased by 30% in just one year, solely through lifestyle changes, without the use of medication.

High blood pressure (BP) in drivers is not only a threat to their personal health but also a serious risk factor for road safety. The likelihood of developing hypertension increases with increasing length of service. Many employees set out on the trip with blood pressure readings close to critical levels, posing a potential hazard to both themselves and other road users.

— Drivers, especially older ones, often have elevated blood pressure readings. Even if the pressure currently allows the driver to set out on a trip, for many drivers it remains at critical levels. A persistent increase is a sign of problems that require a systemic solution, not just masking with medication, notes therapist Irina Batalova.

Our specialists have developed and implemented a comprehensive health support system for at-risk drivers. The program is based on a proactive approach and individualized work. Its key stages are:

• Identification of risk group – identification of drivers with persistent borderline or elevated blood pressure (excluding situational surges due to stress or fatigue).
• Regular monitoring – continuous dynamic tracking of indicators through pre-trip examinations and remote monitoring.
• In-depth diagnostics – referral to a physician for a comprehensive examination and identification of the causes of hypertension.
• Individual recommendations – development of personalized plans for dietary adjustments, increased physical activity, weight control, and quitting bad habits. Plans take into account the profession, age, and health status of each driver.

Particular attention was paid to developing a pool of therapists who understand the specifics of driver work and are able to establish a trusting rapport. Working with drivers is a unique challenge: they are an audience often skeptical of traditional medicine. However, thanks to the developed communication standard, we were able to establish a contact and motivate employees to make changes.

— “Our therapists are able to distinguish genuine high blood pressure from a reaction to stress or fatigue. They identify the cause of the problem and provide specific, effective recommendations—without prescribing medication, but with guaranteed results,” the company’s press service emphasizes. – “100% of drivers agree to follow the doctors’ recommendations after consultation, which has led to impressive results.”

Results of the program for the year:

• A 30% reduction in the number of drivers at risk for hypertension.
• 100% of patients who followed the recommendations demonstrated a stable improvement in blood pressure and heart rate.
• 10 out of 10 drivers, after consulting with a physician, agreed to follow the recommendations.
• The program allowed drivers to maintain their professional activity by avoiding suspensions from driving. The proportion of drivers regularly undergoing pre-trip medical examinations and following preventative recommendations increased.

This is a practical example of the successful implementation of a corporate preventative medicine model aimed at improving safety, reducing economic losses due to non-admissions, and fostering a healthy lifestyle culture in the professional environment.