ROCHESTER, NY - More than a dozen New York State Police troopers participated in comprehensive cardiac screenings at Rochester Regional Health’s Sands-Constellation Heart Institute (SCHI) Saturday as part of the Lifesaving Heart Health Screening Initiative in collaboration with the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association. The troopers underwent bloodwork, Cardiac Calcium Scans (CAC) and consultations with Rochester Regional Health (RRH) cardiologists to assess and reduce their cardiovascular risks on and off the job.
The screening event marks the continuation of a longstanding partnership between RRH and the Troopers PBA Surgeons Group. This partnership will soon expand to include additional screenings for colon and prostate cancer, as well as testosterone level assessments, offering a more comprehensive approach to preventive care for law enforcement officers.
“At Rochester Regional Health, we are committed to helping keep our communities healthy—including those who serve and protect us,” said Maurice Varon, MD, Director of Outpatient Cardiology at Sands Constellation Heart Institute (SCHI). “One key aspect of the Lifesaving Heart Health Screening Initiative is providing comprehensive screenings and evaluations with cardiologists who specialize in assessing risk factors and developing personalized prevention strategies. By identifying potential health concerns early, we can help officers take proactive steps toward heart health and long-term well-being.”
“As New York State Troopers, we make it our mission to put others first. But to protect and serve all New Yorkers, we must protect our own health,” said Charles W. Murphy, President of the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association. “The partnership between the PBA Surgeons Group and Rochester Regional Health is about ensuring our members can access quality care that helps keep them on the road in peak condition. Our message is simple: Our Troopers — and the general public — should seek out preventative care to address potential health problems before they turn serious.”
Studies have shown that the life expectancy of law enforcement officers is almost 22 years lower than that of the average American[1]. One of the biggest threats these men and women face in the line of duty is cardiovascular disease. Experts have found police officers are more likely to die of a heart attack than to be killed by a suspect.[2]
“Law enforcement officers face immense physical and mental stress every day, which significantly increases their risk of heart disease. Through this initiative, we can identify early warning signs and provide proactive, potentially lifesaving care. Our goal is to ensure that those who protect our communities receive the heart health support they need to lead longer, healthier lives,” continued Dr. Varon.
Troopers who are screened Saturday receive a comprehensive consultation and report detailing their cardiovascular risk factors. A key component of the screening is the Cardiac Calcium Scan (CAC), which measures the amount of calcium buildup in the arteries. This calcium score helps predict an individual’s risk for future heart attacks. All screening results are shared with each law enforcement officer’s primary care physician to continue any follow-up care.
“Rochester Regional Health has been proud to partner with the New York State Troopers PBA Surgeons Group for years, working together to prioritize the heart health of those who serve our communities,” said Matthew Schiralli, MD, Executive Medical Director for Surgical Services and NYS Troopers PBA Surgeon Group Liaison for Rochester Regional Health. “We are excited to expand this collaboration later this year, introducing additional services that will further support officers' well-being and longevity. By continuing to enhance our screenings and prevention strategies, we aim to improve the long-term health and safety of those who serve our communities.”
As part of its commitment to supporting law enforcement officers, RRH is exploring opportunities to extend this partnership beyond the New York State Troopers PBA to include additional Rochester-area law enforcement agencies.
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About Rochester Regional Health
Rochester Regional Health is an integrated health services organization serving the people of Western New York, the Finger Lakes, St. Lawrence County, and beyond. The system includes nine hospitals; primary and specialty practices, rehabilitation centers, ambulatory campuses and urgent care facilities; innovative senior services, facilities and independent housing; a wide range of behavioral health services; and Rochester Regional Health Laboratories and ACM Global Laboratories, a global leader in patient and clinical trials. Rochester Regional Health is the region's second-largest employer. Learn more at www.Rochesterregional.org.
About the New York State Troopers PBA
Representing 7,000 active and retired uniformed members, the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association works hard to serve and protect its members who work hard to serve and protect you.
About the PBA Surgeons Group
The NYSTPBA's Healthcare Navigation Program helps Troopers, retired Troopers and their immediate family members obtain access to the best possible medical options. Our mission is simple, to improve access to superior health care options for our members. The State Trooper Surgeons program has established relationships and communication protocols with nearly every hospital in New York. Over 3,600 medical providers have partnered with us to ensure that we meet our mission. Together, we strive to help Troopers remain healthy while on the job and ease family stress when there is a need to access healthcare. The medical professionals who join the PBA as State Trooper Surgeons, as well as the hospitals who become Preferred Medical Partners, do so because they care about New York State Troopers. They are an invaluable resource and true part of our team.
[1] Violanti, John M et al. “Life expectancy in police officers: a comparison with the U.S. general population.” International journal of emergency mental health vol. 15,4 (2013): 217-28.
[2] Violanti, John M et. al. “Hidden danger: A 22-years analysis of law enforcement deaths associated with duty-related illnesses (1997–2018)” Policing. 2020 March 27; 43(2): 330–344. doi:10.1108/PIJPSM-07-2019-0109.
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