Lifeline Screening Plays an Important Role in Our Nation’s Health

Lifeline screening performs medical testing similar to those that are found in hospitals and testing facilities. The purpose of these kinds of tests is to determine basic bodily functions that may be out of line, or those that may show abnormalities to the point that the individual that is tested see a doctor for further diagnosis.

One such series of tests is completed by the use of ultrasound. This is similar to the type of test performed to determine if a pregnant mother is going to have a boy or a girl. The testing device is pointed at the particular organ being tested and a live image is shown on a screen. In this way, function and disposition of the various organs can be readily seen as they are functioning.

Test results such as screening for blockage in the carotid arteries in the neck, abdominal artery screening for aneurysms, ankle-brachial screening for arterial disease, and the degree of bone density indicating possible osteoporosis can be determined with ultrasound.

A simple finger stick with just a small drop of blood can be used to create an entire lipid blood panel. This gives a variety of vital results such as cholesterol levels. Both LDL and HDL results can be obtained in this manner along with glucose levels in the blood, which gives possible indications of diabetes. Testing is also conducted for High-Sensitivity C-reactive proteins which can test for the cardiovascular disease, as well as a test is created to indicate any elevated liver enzymes, which indicates possible liver disease.

The limited electrocardiograph measures an individual’s heart rate. If a person has an irregular heartbeat, or atrial fibrillation, there is a direct risk of blood clots forming in the heart area, which can cause a stroke.

The results of the tests are immediately forwarded to the doctor of the individual for further evaluation and treatment if necessary. Lifeline screening tests can be given in public areas such as libraries and public buildings and at the workplace of employers.