But now the doctor is coming to them, with the Men’s Health Education Rural Van (MERV) open for free health tests in Young on May 31 and June 1. 

The purpose-built caravan with two consulting rooms has been touring rural centres and will be based at the Tourist Information Centre in Young from 10am to 4pm on both days.

It has a full-time registered nurse, who with the assistance of local community nurses, will conduct the tests among rural men. 

The health check includes a review of blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol levels. A comprehensive discussion about men's health issues follows this review, and health education is provided on an extensive number of men’s health topics.

The main aim of the Rotary project, which is also to supported by the Royal Freemasons' Benevolent Institution, Mazda and the NSW Government,  is to increase and promote the awareness of men's health through regular workplace and community visits.

This ‘free’ service has been set up by Rotary District 9670 and is managed and directed by volunteer Rotarians, most from Warners Bay and Warren Clubs.

Between August and December last year the van saw 969 people.

Two hundred and fifty six of these were referred ... “make an appointment with your GP for a routine examination” .

Six hundred and ninety seven were referred ... “see your GP asap to be assessed for treatment”.

A further 16 people were referred ... “see your GP or seek medical attention IMMEDIATELY ... you may be at serious risk”.

The largest number of people were referred asap for assessments.

The tests conducted clearly indicated a specific medical issue. While not immediately life-threatening these people (all men) needed the attention of a doctor for treatment.

Left untreated, ignored or ‘put-up with’, these conditions could soon develop into the category for referral IMMEDIATELY.

C’mon girls! ... don’t lose the one you love for the sake of ten minutes with mherv. Drag ‘em in for a free health check.