Biometric Screening FAQ
One of the many programs we offer to Zest Wellness clients is an annual biometric screening. Taking just 15 to 20 minutes per employee, and consisting of several health metrics, a biometric screening is an excellent resource that helps employees get a picture of their health. Our Corporate Wellness Nurse, Sharon Looney, answers some of our most frequently asked questions here:
Why does CGI offer biometric screenings?
Biometric screenings are offered to empower our clients to take charge of their health. We want our clients to be able to make informed choices about their health and lifestyle behaviors to enable them to live life at their optimum level of health and wellbeing. It also provides an opportunity to inform clients and direct them towards services that they are insured for.
Non diagnostic screenings can provide a health status snapshot of an individual’s cardiovascular and diabetes risk based on blood sampling, body composition and blood pressure.
We also review aggregate results by group and identify trends to tailor our Zest Wellness program towards improving specific biometric parameters such as high blood pressure through Zest Wellness initiatives.
Biometric screening aims to promote positive health and wellbeing in the workplace setting.
Prevention: Promoting healthy lifestyles can help people stay motivated in protecting their health and wellbeing. For some people, biometric screenings help them stay on track with healthy lifestyle behaviors.
Early identification of risk: For those at risk we can look at minimizing their risk through lifestyle factors and identifying non-modifiable risk factors, such as family history, as reasons to commit to a healthy lifestyle. Through knowing their numbers (total cholesterol, glucose, HDL, triglycerides, systolic and diastolic blood pressure) and understanding what they can do to improve them, these individuals may divert their risk of an adverse health event.
Early detection and diagnostic referral: For some, our Registered Nurses may identify cardiovascular disease or diabetes symptoms, and can direct that person to a physician for early intervention. Early detection and early intervention reduce the need for more extensive treatments and hopefully avoid traumatic emergency care.
What is the benefit to employers?
Biometric screenings focus on positive behavior change and healthy lifestyles.
A staff group that makes informed choices regarding their health and wellbeing, lower health risks and have fewer health issues, enhanced ROI based on a more engaged productive healthier staff, with associated reduced absenteeism and improved staff retention.
They also benefit from a bespoke Zest Wellness program which provides wellness initiatives based on aggregate biometric reports. Therefore, a company can utilize its wellness resources for specific health parameter improvements and creates more of a focus for their program.
A Registered Nurse performs a finger prick sample to measure lipid profile and glucose.
What measurements are taken at a Zest Wellness screening?
Finger prick (capillary) blood sample measures
- Lipid profile (Total cholesterol, Triglycerides, HDL, LDL)
- Glucose
Blood pressure: Systolic and diastolic
Body composition: with InBody.
- Total weight
- SMM (Skeletal muscle mass)
- Fat mass
- Body fat percentage
- Body Mass Index (BMI)
What do members need to do to prepare for a screening?
We highly recommend taking the MyPulse survey on the Zest Wellness app. This is a detailed health and wellness questionnaire which can help focus members on their health status and lifestyle before consulting with a Registered Nurse (RN) at the screening.
We also recommend that members select a time that is suitable for them and their work schedule. That way they feel more relaxed during the assessment. There is no need to fast.
What can members expect during the 15 to 20-minute screening?
First, members will meet with a Zest Wellness staff member who will check them in.
A Registered Nurse will take blood pressure and a finger prick blood sample, followed by body composition assessment through standing on a scale. Once the results are documented, the nurse will consult on the biometrics and identify ways to improve parameters and reduce their risk for preventable diseases (cardiovascular and diabetes).
Each member will receive a full breakdown of their results and leave with the knowledge to take charge of their health and wellbeing.
Is this the same as seeing a doctor for an annual physical?
No. Biometric screenings are non-diagnostic. Biometric screenings can highlight a member's need for attending an annual physical for diagnostic care with their primary care physician.
Now that you know what to expect, see your Group Administrator for details on your next biometric screening. Any other questions? Leave them in the comments and we will be happy to reply!
