HEART5 reaches important landmark in lung health checks

HEART5 has reached a major milestone, with the mobile health unit screening over 1,000 individuals for lung diseases linked to mine dust exposure. This achievement highlights the growing reach of specialised health services across regional Queensland.

The mobile unit specialises in detecting lung conditions associated with mine dust among people who previously worked in mines and quarries. HEART5, a B-double truck loaded with the latest medical screening equipment, travels throughout regional and remote areas of Queensland, providing complimentary testing for those who qualify.

A Collaborative Program Delivering Results

This initiative has been run by Heart of Australia in conjunction with Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) since February 2022. The free lung checks program continues to expand its footprint across the state, bringing vital diagnostic services closer to workers who might otherwise miss out.

RSHQ Executive Director of Occupational Health Dean Barr said HEART5 has significantly transformed the lives of people in regional or remote areas of Queensland.

"We know people outside of our city centres don't always have the same access to medical screening and that's why we helped develop HEART5," said Mr Barr.

"We've been able to bring the technology to them, so they can access high quality free lung checks."

"Having a diagnosis means affected workers can access treatment and in some cases compensation."

Why Mobile Screening Services Matter for Remote Communities

Access to diagnostic services remains a persistent challenge for those living outside major city centres. HEART5 addresses this gap directly, delivering lung health checks to towns that would otherwise have limited access to specialist testing.

Recent expansions have seen HEART5 extend its services to new locations, including towns in North Queensland and Cairns, further strengthening the program's reach into remote and regional communities.

Key Benefits of the HEART5 Program

• Free, high quality lung health checks for eligible former mine and quarry workers
• Access to the latest medical screening equipment, brought directly to remote locations
• Early diagnosis enabling access to treatment and, where applicable, compensation
• Extended reach into areas that previously lacked convenient screening services

For employers managing workforce health obligations, maintaining accurate records remains essential. A Health Surveillance Record can help track screening outcomes and ensure compliance with ongoing monitoring requirements, while a robust Health & Welfare Policy supports broader occupational health commitments.

Supporting Broader Workplace Health Initiatives

This milestone reflects a wider study into occupational lung health outcomes across Queensland's resources sector. Organisations seeking to strengthen their own health and safety frameworks may benefit from reviewing a comprehensive Work Health & Safety (WHS) Policy, particularly where psychosocial risks intersect with physical health concerns covered under workplace mental health and psychosocial policies.

Professionals wanting to stay informed on the latest developments in workplace health services can also attend the Workplace Health and Safety Show, where initiatives like HEART5 are frequently discussed alongside other emerging health and safety services.

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