LIBERTY Medical Scheme has experienced an overwhelming response to the nationwide screening of its second medical documentary which highlighted the causes, treatments and preventions of cardiovascular disease. The screening took place at participating Ster Kinekor theatres in all major centres earlier this month. It is the second one since the campaign launched in March this year. The innovative screenings aim to continue the scheme's national health drive to empower the nation and dispel popular health myths. The first screening tackled breast cancer. One feature that makes the screenings so powerful is the stories that are told by the survivors through a group discussion where they talk honestly about their experience and their coping strategies, according to Andrew Edwards, principal officer at Liberty Medical Scheme. The film was packaged in a practical viewer-friendly manner. Apart from the discussion group of survivors, hosted by radio and TV personality Mark Pilgrim, who has survived a heart attack and testicular cancer, the film featured a panel of doctors who discussed cardiovascular disease. Audience members after the event reported that they found the format informative yet simple to understand. Viewers were polled and said they enjoyed the panel discussion by medical doctors, which gave them, in layman's terms, what signs to watch out for when a heart attack is imminent; how to live a healthier lifestyle to prevent a re-occurrence; and, how necessary it is to have the cholesterol levels in the blood regularly checked.

Edwards said Liberty Medical Scheme would continue to educate its current and potential members on the best preventative measures regarding a range of illnesses. He thanked corporates such as Aspen Pharmacare and Clicks Pharmacy for helping to deliver the message in an impactful way."

Health News: Business Day, 23 June 2010