EU Traffic Light System: How to get a COVID-19 PCR test before travelling

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EU Traffic Light System: How to get a COVID-19 PCR test before travelling

12 October 2020

EU Traffic Light System: How to get a COVID-19 PCR test before travelling

EU Traffic Light System: How to get a COVID-19 PCR test before travelling

As Covid-19 infection rates continue to rise in many parts of the world, an increasing number of countries are asking for a negative PCR test as a means of proof that travellers do not have the Covid-19 virus.

Whilst not yet a common requirement globally, it is understood that the EU could soon be turning to a Traffic Light System that will require pre-departure testing for individuals departing any of the 15 ‘red list’ countries – which includes the UK and could be extended to include Ireland.

Whilst there are currently a number of countries across the EU that do not require a negative COVID test for visitors from the UK, the implementation of this co-ordinated approach across the EU will place common requirements on all travellers from the UK, no matter which country they are visiting.

It could also be used in support of reduced quarantine in those countries which require it.

So – what is a PCR test?

PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction and is a method of testing used to detect infectious disease, including COVID-19.

A PCR test is performed in a laboratory and is indicative of an individual’s COVID status at the time their sample is taken. It does not show previous infection.

Where can I get a COVID PCR test done?

PCR tests are available at Randox Health via an in-clinic appointment, or a home sample collection.

Are home tests accepted as proof of my COVID status?

It is important to note that many countries do not accept ‘home tests’ as proof of a negative COVID-19 result. Results must show that the test was performed in a certified laboratory.

Whilst Randox Health offers a home sample collection kit, all our testing is performed using PCR methods in our certified laboratories.

If the country you are travelling to requires a PCR test result, we’ve got you covered.

How do I know if I need a COVID PCR test?

You can check the entry requirements for your destination at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Requirements are subject to change, so keep checking in the weeks and days leading up to your trip.

When do I take my sample for testing?

Your destination country will determine the time frame required for testing. For example, it may state that your sample needs to be taken and tested within 72 hours before departure / arrival. You cannot be swabbed before this time.

It is best to book / order your test in advance and take it as early as possible within your window, so that you allow for the maximum amount of time to get your test results back.

How long do I wait for my results?

Upon receipt of sample at Randox’s laboratories, you will receive your results within 24 hours.

Our rapid, accurate and reliable COVID-19 testing service will help get your trip off to a hassle-free start, with minimum disruption to your travel plans.

Visit https://www.randoxhealth.com/covid-travel-certificate/ to order your home sample collection kit or book your clinic appointment.

For further information please email info@randoxhealth.com or phone 0800 2545 130.

     

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    World Heart Day 2020: Take control of your heart health

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    29 September 2020

    World Heart Day 2020

    Take control of your heart health this World Heart Day

    The term ‘cardiovascular disease’ (CVD) refers to any disease of the heart, vascular disease of the brain, or disease of the blood vessel. More people die from CVDs worldwide than from any other cause: over 17.9 million every year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Of these deaths, 80% are due to coronary heart diseases (eg heart attack) and cerebrovascular diseases (e.g. strokes) and mostly affect low- and middle-income countries.

    To try and raise awareness of the dangers of CVD and associated conditions, the World Heart Foundation celebrate World Heart Day on September 29th every year to inform and educate on the prevalence of heart disease.

    Our latest blog looks at CVD and provides more information on types of disease and symptoms, so you can know what to look out for and how to reduce the impact of potential future heart problems.

    The UK Situation

    There are around 7.4 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases in the UK. Heart and circulatory diseases cause more than a quarter (27 per cent) of all deaths in the UK; that’s nearly 170,000 deaths each year – an average of 460 people each day or one death every three minutes.

    Healthcare costs relating to heart and circulatory diseases are estimated at £9 billion each year.

    Nation No. of people dying from CVD No. of people under 75 dying from CVD Estimated number of people living with CVD
    England 136,317 35,581 6.15 million
    Scotland 17,002 4,675 720,000
    Wales 9,376 2,607 340,000
    Northern Ireland 3,938 1,085 225,000
    United Kingdom 167,116 44,261 7.4 million

    (British Heart Foundation, 2018)

    What are cardiovascular diseases?

    Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels and they include:

    • coronary heart disease – disease of the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle;
    • cerebrovascular disease – disease of the blood vessels supplying the brain;
    • peripheral arterial disease – disease of blood vessels supplying the arms and legs;
    • rheumatic heart disease – damage to the heart muscle and heart valves from rheumatic fever, caused by streptococcal bacteria;
    • congenital heart disease – malformations of heart structure existing at birth;
    • deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism – blood clots in the leg veins, which can dislodge and move to the heart and lungs.
    World Heart Day

    What are the symptoms of cardiovascular disease?

    Symptoms of heart disease vary based on what condition you have but can include:

    • chest pain
    • pain, weakness or numb legs and/or arms
    • breathlessness
    • very fast or slow heartbeat, or palpitations
    • feeling dizzy, lightheaded or faint
    • fatigue
    • swollen limbs

    How is cardiovascular disease diagnosed?

    Diagnosis of coronary heart disease depends on your symptoms and what condition your doctor thinks you may have. Tests may be based on your family history and can include:

    • blood tests
    • chest x-ray
    • electrocardiogram (ECG)
    • echocardiogram
    • CT scan
    • MRI scan.

    How Randox Health can help

    Did you know that your heart is the size of your fist and the strongest muscle in your body? If you live to be 70, it will have beaten two and a half billion times.

    Although impressive and strong, your heart can also become vulnerable from habitual risk factors like smoking, eating an unhealthy diet or putting it under stress.

    Controlling these key risk factors and monitoring your blood pressure regularly may reduce an individual’s risk of CVD.

    At Randox Health, we provide a range of specialised tests that enable you to take full control of your health.

    Heart Health is one of our specialised tests and includes the Signature Heart Health panel of tests plus a resting ECG to give an in-depth assessment of risk of future heart disease.

    For World Heart Day 2020, you can gain a detailed understanding of your Heart Health with our range of testing. Contact us today using the below details.

    Click here to find out more about our testing.

    Click here to book a test with Randox Health. 

    Email: info@randoxhealth.com

    Phone: 0800 2545 130

     

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    Take control of your liver health with a Randox Health Check

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    09 January 2020

    Understanding your liver health

    Take control of your liver health with a Randox Health Check

    Are you taking part in Dry January? Giving up alcohol can do your insides a lot of good, and it’s great news for your liver in particular. It may be that after the festive period our liver needs a little bit of rest!

    Did you know that alcohol consumption across the UK increases by a staggering 41 percent more than the annual monthly average in December? That’s more than anywhere else in the world.

    The effects of alcohol on your health really depend on how much you drink and how often, but as the statistics show, more of us increase our uptake of alcohol over the festive period.

    So how does this impact our body and our liver?

    The results of over indulging vary from a hangover, a poor night’s sleep, to causing an irregular heartbeat, and in some cases, excessive alcohol intake can lead to liver damage. This can be a very serious condition, given the liver’s vital role in the body.

    The liver plays a central role in all metabolic processes. In fat metabolism, it breaks down fats and produces energy. When we intake alcohol or drugs, it metabolizes the drug and detoxifies chemicals.  And it also makes proteins important for blood clotting and other functions.

    Following these processes, the liver also secretes bile that ends up back in the intestines and helps the digestion of fats and oils, otherwise known as lipids.

    The liver can develop new cells, but abuse over a prolonged period reduces its ability to regenerate, causing serious damage.

    It is not just heavy drinking over years that can cause liver disease – binge drinking is also a culprit and can lead to a build up of fat and subsequent inflammation. The best advice is to drink in moderation. Simple tips like taking a glass of water in-between alcoholic drinks are key to staying hydrated.

    Know your units;

    • According to drinkaware.co.uk, unit guidelines are now the same for men and women.
    • Both are advised not to regularly drink more than 14 units a week
    • This equates to 6 pints of 4% beer / 6 glasses of 13% wine / 14 glasses (25ml) of 40% spirits
    • But don’t save up your 14 units, it’s best to spread evenly across the week.
    • If you want to cut down the amount you’re drinking, a good way is to have several drink-free days each week.
    • If you’ve had a heavy drinking session, avoid alcohol for 48 hours.

    What does one unit of alcohol look like?

    One unit of alcohol is the amount of alcohol an average adult can process within one hour so that so that there’s no alcohol left in their bloodstream.

    One unit of alcohol equates to:

    • 218ml of standard 4.5% cider
    • 76ml of standard 13% wine
    • 25ml of standard 40% whiskey
    • 250ml of standard 4% beer
    • 250ml of a standard 4% alcopop

    How many units are in my drink?

    • Small glass white / rosé / red wine (125ml 12%) = 1.5 units
    • Standard glass white / rosé / red wine (175 ml 12%) = 2.1 units
    • Large glass white / red / rosé wine (250ml 12%) = 3 units
    • Pint of lager / beer / cider (5.2%) = 3 units
    • Bottle of lager / beer / cider (330ml 5%) = 1.7 units
    • Single small shot of spirits (25ml 40%) = 1 unit*

    *taken from NHS Live Well Guidelines

    Having your liver health checked after Christmas is a great way of tracking any changes that you may need to make to your lifestyle, for better or for worse – essential for helping you prevent disease and allowing you to take early action if it is diagnosed.

    At Randox we offer a comprehensive menu of liver function tests to determine its health.  Provided by Randox to a wealth of hospitals, laboratories and research facilities across the globe, these tests are also directly available to you, the consumer, via our Randox Health clinics.

    They include:

    • Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) – an enzyme mainly found in the liver. Liver injury or disease will release ALT into the bloodstream, thus elevating serum ALT levels.  Moderately high or mildly elevated ALT levels can be associated with chronic diseases, such as cirrhosis, which is scarring of the liver.
    • Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) – an enzyme found predominantly in the heart, liver and skeletal muscles. Cell injury or disease will release AST into the bloodstream, thus elevating blood AST levels. Increased AST levels may be associated with hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), cirrhosis, or drug-induced liver injury.
    • Gamma-Glutamyltransferase (GGT) – an enzyme found mainly in the liver. Increased levels of GGT in the blood may indicate bile duct injury, hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver necrosis (death of tissue), tumours or the use of drugs that are toxic to the liver.  A high GGT level is frequently associated with increased alcohol consumption, as this enzyme is involved in the breakdown and removal of alcohol from the body.
    • Glutamate Dehydrogenase (GLDH) – an enzyme located within the mitochondria (energy-producing machinery) of cells, particularly within liver tissue. Significant liver cell damage may cause release of GLDH into the bloodstream.  Toxic liver damage, liver cell necrosis or hypoxic liver disease (where liver cells are deprived of oxygen) may cause an increase in GLDH. Measurement of GLDH in combination with other liver markers may help distinguish between different causes of liver dysfunction.
    • Bilirubin – a yellowish-brown pigment found in bile. Increased levels may be associated with liver or bile duct blockage (eg due to gallstones), hepatitis, cirrhosis, trauma to the liver, a drug reaction, long-term alcohol abuse or rare inherited disorders (eg Dubin-Johnson syndrome which is characterised by mild jaundice).
    • Albumin – produced by the liver, albumin is the most abundant protein in the blood. Albumin plays in important role in maintaining blood pressure and transporting a wide variety of small molecules, such as hormones, vitamins and drugs, throughout the body. Various conditions are associated with decreased albumin levels, including kidney and liver diseases.
    • Copper – an essential mineral that plays a part in many enzyme systems within the body. Excess or deficiency of copper is very rare, however raised copper levels may be caused by chronic liver disease or acute hepatitis.

    And when used in conjunction with the wide variety of other tests available within the world’s most comprehensive and personalised health testing menu, you can obtain an understanding of your full body health like never before.

    That’s why we don’t test in isolation, which can give a patchy representation of your health and can fail to pick up on related symptoms elsewhere in the body. We test up to 350 tests across 25 areas of your health – giving you the power to take your health into your own hands.

    Contact the Randox Health team today to determine the health of your liver, and of your body.

    Call 0800 2545 130 or click here.

    To find out more and purchase the most thoughtful of Christmas presents – a gift card for the ‘gift of health’ – click here.

     

     

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    Give your loved ones the Gift of Health this Christmas

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    02 December 2019

    Randox Health Christmas Gift Cards

    Give your loved ones the Gift of Health this Christmas

    This year, you can give the ‘gift of health’ to someone you love, with a Randox Health Gift Card.

    Randox Health has the most comprehensive health check packages in the world, as well as a wide range of specialised tests. The EveryMan, EveryWoman packages carry out 150 different health tests while the Signature package does 350. That means your results deliver a complete understanding of your health; your heart, kidneys, thyroid, fertility, bones and more.

    And it doesn’t just tell you how you are now, but helps you to manage your health for the future.

    Each one of our packages lasts for twelve months and include personalised health plans, a private consultation with an expert and repeat testing. This unique aspect enables you to see exactly what impact you’re making on your health as you follow our recommendations.

    Specialised testing is also available on areas including cardiac health, coeliac autoimmune disease, hormonal health and genetic testing.

    The health check packages are available at our clinics in London, Liverpool, Holywood and Crumlin, and also through our innovative mobile health clinic. Gift cards can be purchased from as little as £20.

    To find out more and purchase the most thoughtful of Christmas presents – a gift card for the ‘gift of health’ – click here.

    Want to know more?

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    The world’s most comprehensive health checks from Randox Health

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    01 October 2019

    Randox Health Checks

    Do you know about our world-leading health checks?

    Randox Health provides the world’s most comprehensive full-body health screen packages available. Our patented technology enables 100’s of individual tests to be carried out from your sample, giving you truly unrivalled knowledge about your health now and in the future.

    Identifying the very first signs and risks of disease could help prevent many health problems, before the appearance of unpleasant symptoms or illness. We can provide an extensive test menu with our health care due to the high performance diagnostic tests that we run.

    Randox Health do this by detecting small changes in your blood. Early identification, paired with expert advice, provides the potential to prevent health problems developing.

    Randox Health complete more tests in each health check than anyone else. With up to 350 results in each health check, you’ll get the most comprehensive understanding of your health available – including your heart, hormonal, lungs, digestive system and more.

    The Randox Health process couldn’t be simpler.

    When booking an appointment at one of our clinics the process couldn’t be simpler.

    1. Book your appointment – Online, via our app or on the phone, you can book an appointment with our health experts at one of the clinic locations or alternatively book an “on the move” appointment and we will come to you.
    2. Clinic appointment – this will last no longer than 30mins, involving a review of your details, bio-measurements and sample collection.
    3. Scientific Analysis – all of your samples collected are analysed quickly by our Bio-Medical Scientists, using the latest Randox patent technology, which generates a vast amount of data about your current and future health.
    4. Results and Consultation – You will receive a detailed report in the post and via our app containing a clear explanation of your results. We will then invite you for a consultation with one of our Health Experts to discuss your report in full. This is all included in your package.
    5. Repeat appointment – We want you to continue to monitor your health status based on our results, so you will be invited back for a retest as part of your initial package which will ensure the corrections we have suggested are having a positive effect.
    randox-health-checks-oct-19

    The vision of Randox is one of ambition, innnovation and commitment to improving health worldwide.

    To book an appointment, email  info@randoxhealth.com or phone  0800 2545 130.

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    Randox Health takes diagnostic service on the road

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    03 September 2019

    Randox Health Mobile Clinic

    Do you know about our Mobile Health Service?

    Clients of Randox Health are benefiting from “full-body MoTs” by providing blood samples in state-of-the-art Mobile Service clinics based on Mercedes-Benz Sprinters. The company’s phlebotomists use their strikingly styled vehicles to visit workplaces, gyms, private homes, and other locations, and provide an ultra-convenient service.

    Randox Health is committed to identifying and preventing illness by detecting small changes in blood. Its patented diagnostic testing technology is capable of identifying up to 350 individual ‘biomarkers’ in a single sample. Randox Health operates clinics in Belfast, Liverpool and London, and introduced its first mobile unit in 2017. Such has been the demand from health-conscious clients throughout Ireland, that it has now added a second.

    Based in Liverpool, the newer vehicle is from the latest-generation Sprinter range launched last year, which combines unprecedented levels of cab quality and comfort, with 4G wi-fi connectivity, and an industry-leading armoury of active and passive safety features. Like its predecessor, the 3.5-tonne 314 CDI L2 chassis cab was supplied by Intercounty Truck & Van, one of two members of the Mercedes-Benz Vans retail network whose parent company is Ballyvesey Holdings, of Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland.

    Both vehicles’ purpose-designed bodies are the work of specialist coachbuilder Annard, of Loughall, County Armagh. Features include ‘pop out’ sections that address Randox Health’s requirement for additional floor space. With their aerodynamic enhancements, colour-coded door mirrors and bumpers, and alloy wheels, the Sprinters are real head-turners, and have attracted enthusiastic feedback from clients.

    Explaining the rationale behind Randox Health’s decision to launch its mobile clinic service, Operations Manager Lauren Donaghy said: 

    “Increasing demand from corporate clients and private individuals for our pioneering health checks meant we needed to come up with a solution which ensured they were accessible to all.

    “Our mobile service was the answer, and by providing men and women, young and old, with what effectively amount to full-body MoTs, we’re now transforming the delivery of healthcare in the UK and Ireland.”

    Lauren continued: “We provide a world-leading service, so naturally we were keen to partner with a world-leading automotive brand able to provide vehicles that offer the highest standards of reliability, comfort and safety.

    “The name Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with quality, ingenuity and performance, so we knew it would be the perfect fit for our equally innovative and ambitious company. Ballyvesey Holdings, meanwhile, has worked with Mercedes-Benz for years, and came highly recommended. “With their bespoke design, the vehicles provide a perfect combination of phlebotomy functionality and patient comfort, while maintaining the look and feel of a high-end clinic room,” added Lauren Donaghy.

    “People are able to book an appointment at a place of their choosing, and being able to undergo their health check in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz means the experience is first-class from start to finish.”

    A world-leading health service

    Mercedes-Benz Vans UK has been doing its bit to highlight issues of health and wellbeing affecting the UK’s community of van drivers, operators and owners, through its Business Barometer programme. In its latest bulletin, the manufacturer focused on poor quality diets and the apparent reluctance of many to visit a doctor, while previous instalments have covered everything from hydration in hot weather, to the affects of air pollution, and the high stress levels induced by a shortage of parking provision.

    The Sprinter 314 CDI is powered by a fuel-efficient 2.1-litre common rail turbodiesel engine – although this model is now also available with front-wheel drive, as with its stablemate Randox Health’s new van transmits its 143 hp output via the rear wheels. Like all Mercedes-Benz vans, Randox Health’s Mobile Service vehicles are backed by three-year, unlimited mileage warranties and came with free MobiloVan cover, which includes round-the-clock emergency roadside assistance.

    Randox Health: What We Do

    Randox Health packages go beyond a health check. We have the world’s most comprehensive full-body health programmes available on the market today, thanks to Randox Biochips which enable hundreds of individual tests to be carried out from one sample and giving you truly unrivalled knowledge about your health and wellbeing both now and in the future. Your health matters to us and, above all, we are committed to improving healthcare worldwide by identifying and preventing illness at the earliest possible stage.

    How we can help you

    Identifying the very first signs and risks of disease can help prevent health problems that may be on the horizon. Randox Health aim to do this before the appearance of unpleasant symptoms or illness. Prevention is always better than cure. Long-term mild dehydration may have caused damage to your health and our packages tests for up to 350 different biomarkers. Read about our packages here, or contact a member of our team for more information!

     

     

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    Could you have a Helicobacter Pylori Infection?

    2nd July 2019

    Helicobacter Pylori (H. pylori) Infection

    Improve Your Understanding

    Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection – we all know what it is, right?

    It occurs when a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori infects your stomach. This most commonly happens during your childhood. It’s a common cause of peptic ulcers. Did you know that H. pylori infection may be present in more than half the world’s population?

    The majority of people don’t realize they have H. pylori infection, because they’ve never been sick from it. The exact way that H.pylori infects someone is still unknown at this time but the symptoms of H. pylori infection may include:

    • An ache or burning pain in your abdomen
    • Abdominal pain that’s worse when your stomach is empty
    • Nausea
    • Loss of appetite
    • Frequent burping
    • Bloating
    • Unintentional weight loss

    Should you get checked?

    There are a number of complications that are associated with this infection.

    These include ulcers, inflamed stomach lining and stomach cancer.

    • Ulcers: Damage can be caused to the protective lining of your stomach and small intestine causing an ulcer, around 10% of people with H. pylori will develop an ulcer.
    • Inflammation of the stomach lining: The infection can irritate your stomach, causing inflammation (gastritis).
    • Stomach cancer: H. pylori infection is a strong risk factor for certain types of stomach cancer.

     

    If you present with any of the symptoms of H. pylori you should get tested straight away. However, even if you have not shown any symptoms at all you can still have the infection. It can be very beneficial to get tested for H. pylori, symptoms or not, as it could cause future complications for your health.

     

    Specialised Testing

    Our division Randox Health offers specialised tests, one of our specialised tests is a H. pylori breath test. This test can help you have peace of mind or identify if you have the Helicobacter Pylori Infection. All Randox Health packages give you a comprehensive look into your health, not only now but how it could look in the future. You can read more about our packages here or contact a member of our team for more information!

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    Winners unveiled at Causeway Coast & Glens Business Awards 2019

    Causeway Chamber, in partnership with principle sponsor Randox Health, hosted the 2019 Causeway Coast and Glens Business Awards, which was held Friday 21st June at the Lodge Hotel, Coleraine. As all enjoyed the drinks reception from Old Bushmills Distillery, the evening provided a chance to network whilst the anticipation grew before the awards presentation.

    This prestigious ceremony recognised and honoured the best of the Borough’s businesses on a local and national level.

    In the opening address Murray Bell, President of Causeway Chamber said;

    “We have a wealth of businesses within our borough, organisations large and small, entrepreneurs, start-up innovators, all who compete at the highest level they can, and tonight is an opportunity to celebrate those talents – recognising the progress made and reaching forward to further excellence and creativity, underpinning our Chambers message that Causeway Coast & Glens Borough is an ‘Outstanding Place to live, work and play.”

    350 guests attended the event including Mayor Cllr Sean Bateson, Deputy Vice Chancellor Alastair Adair, Chief Executive David Jackson, Dr Peter FitzGerald CBE FREng DL, Managing Director, Randox Laboratories Ltd, local businesses, award sponsors and the 61 finalists who eagerly waited to see if they were successful as winners of their category.

    Dr Peter FitzGerald CBE FREng DL, Managing Director, Randox commented;

    “It is a great honour to be here once again for the Business Awards for the Causeway Coast and Glens, a region with whom we have become closely engaged since opening the newest division of our multi-faceted company; Dundarave Estate in Bushmills. Dundarave’s collection of jams, chutneys, ciders and meats has proved very popular with both the local community and other businesses, together with whom we are able to demonstrate what Northern Ireland has to offer to a global business market.

    “We are proud that through our sponsorship of this event, we can not only bring together the best local businesses, support one another and celebrate our collective achievements, but also encourage all those involved to proactively think about their health. For all of us, our health is our wealth, and indeed for the entrepreneurial finalists, many of whom are self-employed, their health is their livelihood. We might all usefully consider how we can live better for longer, to fully enjoy what life has to offer, in both our business and our personal lives. I must also say that we have been very impressed with the nominees of each category and the calibre of finalists, each of whom absolutely deserve their place in the Causeway Coast and Glens Business Awards. Congratulations to all the award winners.”

    Sarah Travers who was delighted to once again host the event said;

    “The Causeway Coast and Glens Borough is unique in its ability to offer a variety of locations for business development. The Chamber has truly embraced the diversity of the local business talents and rewarded each sector individually.”

    Annette Deighan, Chamber Operations Manager added;

    “Causeway Coast and Glens Business Awards would not have been possible without our businesses and continued support of all our sponsors. It is an honour to host these awards, to recognise the achievements and success in our region. It shows as a Borough we are continuing to excel and compete at a regional and national level.”

    There were 18 awards comprising of many categories sponsored by individual companies. The judges were overwhelmed with the level of entries received which is a testament to the success of these biennial awards and the achievements of all businesses within the Borough. The awards highlighted that the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough is continuing to grow, compete and provide services at a local and global level. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists on the evening.

    For further information about the Causeway Coast & Glens Business Awards 2019 please contact the Randox PR team by emailing randoxpr@randox.com or phoning 028 9442 2413

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    Invest in employee health with Randox Health EveryBusiness

    Invest in Prevention with Randox Health EveryBusiness

    Employee Health and welling strategies are being increasingly introduced by companies. Research in Right Management’s The flux report: Building a resilient workforce in the face of flux, published in February 2014, found that 60% of HR directors recognise that employee health and wellness are key attributes to enabling businesses to achieve their strategic objectives. However, a key problem in the area of health and wellness is that it is often misunderstood. Companies view health and wellness strategies as a firefighting measure; something that is introduced when things go wrong in the company and performance slides.

    This view is narrow and to a certain extent wrong. The old saying “Prevention rather than cure” is extremely fitting within these situations. Health and wellbeing should not be about reactive illness management and employers shouldn’t wait until their employees become stressed or ill then seek to cure. Instead they should look at a prevention strategy.

    Proactive Health and Wellbeing

    Early intervention really does matter. Businesses that spend more time promoting wellbeing and resilience see an upturn in performance, engagement and productivity. If they also use specific data gathering and measurement throughout the year, they can demonstrate the effect of the wellbeing programmes that they’ve implemented and learn what works for them. Health and wellbeing programmes can see an 80% improvement in organisational performance, which is a huge benefit to any business.

    In addition, businesses that make a commitment to employee wellbeing can also expect a return in areas such as psychological contract, improved sense of wellbeing, resilience and enhanced positive regard for the employer. Everyone has potential to be healthy, efficient, productive and happy at work. People just need the right support. With an ageing population, it is important that organisations start to recognise this. Read our blog on why to invest in employee health and the benefits.

    Randox Health EveryBusiness

    Our EveryBusiness corporate service aims to provide a unique health and wellbeing service for your business. EveryBusiness will benefit you and your employees and improve the productivity of your business. Our EveryBusiness service is for employers trying to improve the health and wellbeing of their employees and by doing so benefit from the results of creating a unique health and wellbeing environment.

    Contact a member of our team today for more information.

    Visit www.randoxhealth.com or phone 0800 2545 130

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    Tiger Roll wins back-to-back Randox Health Grand Nationals

    The sponsor of the Randox Health Grand National has congratulated Tiger Roll, Davy Russell, Gordon Elliott and Michael O’Leary as they secured their spot in the history books at Saturday’s Randox Health Grand National.

    Dr. Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director of Randox Health, had high praise for both Aintree Racecourse and his Randox Health team, saying;

    “We were delighted to once again partner with the Jockey Club and Aintree Racecourse, together bringing the Randox Health Grand National to the millions who avidly awaited the unfolding of this iconic event.

     “Over the last two years of our sponsorship, the theatrics that this Festival has produced have been second-to-none and this, our third year, was no exception. The atmosphere was electric and the cheers of the crowd deafening as Tiger Roll, steered by Davy Russell, stretched himself ahead of the competition to become the first consecutive winner of this most famous race since the days of Red Rum.

    “It is a tale which will be forever etched in the history books of Aintree Racecourse and steeplechase racing.

    “Congratulations to Tiger Roll’s jockey Davy Russell, trainer Gordon Elliott and owner Michael O’Leary who once again delivered a fairytale of determination and dedication as the small but mighty Tiger Roll stormed to victory for a second time.

     “Whilst our partnership with the Randox Health Grand National and the wider Jockey Club is an opportunity for us to spread our message of preventative health, it is also a chance to show our commitment, at a national level, to this wonderful sport. I have been a keen equestrian all my life and Randox, historically, has given its name to many local Point-to-Point and Polo meetings near our headquarters in Northern Ireland.

    “It’s the perfect fit, therefore, to unite our company ethos, of helping people to extend and enjoy their lives, with the people’s race, the Randox Health Grand National. Together, we can encourage people to live healthier for longer, in order to enjoy events such as this glorious Festival for as long as possible.

     “Our message of preventative health is an important one, particularly in a health-conscious world, and that’s why we have been offering the public a 20% discount across all our health packages and services over the course of the Randox Health Grand National and until the end of April 2019.

    “This year, we also highlighted our STI at-home test kit Confidante. Sexual health is a serious issue but all too often such infections are stigmatised and access to services may be problematic – causing considerable difficulties for individuals who believe they may benefit from testing. This can lead to increased health challenges at a personal level, and potentially much higher rates of infection.

    Confidante allows for 10 STIs to be tested in a private and fully confidential manner, with the results provided directly to the individual.  Improving ease-of-access to such testing is an important issue to support the health needs of those who require testing of and to help reduce the overall rates of sexual infections within society.

    “The Randox Health Hub at Aintree Racecourse provided race-goers with an opportunity to engage with Confidante directly through our Secret Cinema where viewers entered a private booth, unaware of the humorous short film which awaited them. Many were in good spirits as a camera caught their reactions and all were entered in to a draw to win a FitBit on each day of the Festival

     “I would like to thank the millions who joined us at the Randox Health Grand National 2019 to witness history being made – whether in person at Aintree Racecourse or tuned in to the screen or airwaves. We look forward to continuing our partnership in the coming years as we deliver the world’s most famous steeplechase and share our preventative health message.”

    For more information about the Randox Health Grand National 2019 please contact the Randox PR team by emailing randoxpr@randox.com or phone 028 9442 2413.