Prime Highlight
- The Isle of Man has launched a pilot “fit checks” scheme to identify early health risks and encourage preventative lifestyle changes among young adults.
- Health officials say early intervention could reduce long-term health problems and ease future pressure on healthcare services.
Key Facts
- The pilot has begun at Ramsey Group Practice and targets people aged 18 to 39, covering around 3,500 eligible residents in the north of the island.
- The checks are delivered by existing nurses, focus on physical, mental, and lifestyle factors, and come at minimal additional cost.
Background
The Isle of Man’s public health directorate has launched a pilot scheme to spot potential health problems early and help young adults make small changes before serious issues develop later in life.
The new initiative, known as “fit checks,” has started at Ramsey Group Practice in the north of the island. It targets people aged between 18 and 39 and looks at their lifestyle, mental well-being, and basic physical health.
Public health consultant Dr Ross Keat said early support could help people make simple preventative changes that would have long-term benefits. He said these small steps could make “a big difference later on” and help reduce pressure on health services in the future.
Around 3,500 people in the north of the island fall within the eligible age group. The checks are carried out by two existing nurses who already support GP services. Dr Keat said the scheme would not replace GP appointments and would come at minimal cost, which Ramsey Group Practice will absorb.
Health officials hope the pilot will act as a model for similar services across the island. Dr Keat said the trial would give health and care providers a clear blueprint to expand the programme into other areas.
Frailty coordinator Georgia Zapparoli said the 18 to 39 age group was important because many health problems seen later in life often start with habits formed at a younger age. She said people in this age group often work long hours, push themselves too hard, and neglect their own well-being.
The checks also include questions about housing, work, social life, and physical activity. Zapparoli said the information would help plan future services, such as investing more in physiotherapy if needed. She stressed the process is not about judgment but about building healthier communities for the future.
