In the Chair: Past President Carmel

Speaker: Kath and Craig representing MHERV

Members present: 13

Guests: Isaac Day (visiting Med student, Brian’s guest), Gavin Gowdie (Eric’s guest)

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MHERV – Men’s Health Education Rural Van

“Since 2017 MHERV has been out in the back blocks of NSW, on two scheduled tours per year, seeking out the menfolk who haven’t seen the inside of a doctor’s rooms for years. These are the blokes who drop dead in a paddock, because nobody saw it coming.” MHERV brochure.

Kath, a dedicated Registered Nurse (RN), and Craig, the receptionist/security guard, set up MHERV at locations regularly attended by farmers and rural workers. They are a married couple and thoroughly enjoy their nomadic life touring rural NSW and talking with clients and with Rotary members.

They offer an opportunity for men and women to have a free, fully confidential health check within the specially fitted out MHERV Van. Blood pressure, sugar levels and cholesterol are checked within the van. Where appropriate, Kath might suggest skin, prostrate, or mental health issues be discussed with a doctor. In some cases, Kath rings the patient the next day to be sure that her suggestions are followed up.

I can see how Kath could relax the most stressed clients. And could be firm in her recommendations to people who would claim no need for help. 

Of the 21684 people tested, 12159 have been recommended to see a doctor ASAP. 853 patients are to see a doctor immediately! On at least one occasion, Craig drove the patient to the hospital immediately and saved his life.

The MHERV project is undertaken by Rotary Clubs throughout NSW, with coordination by the Rotary Club of Warners Bay. $97000 raised by Rotary funds the project. Bunnings have supported by hosting sausage sizzles at the shop fronts, and by providing parking for the van. It is also generously supported by Electrodry Professional Home Services, NSW Government and NSW Health.