“Regular check-ups are like servicing your car – they help avoid breakdowns,” says Bendigo Community Health Services Dr Haris Noor.
With 50 men a day dying from preventable causes in Australia the Men’s Health Clinic GP is using Men’s Health Week (June 9-15) to drive the message home that health checks can save lives.
Dr Haris and the clinic’s Nurse Practitioner Peter Strange are available every Tuesday, providing an array of services to the community. Dr Haris joined the Men’s Health Clinic in October last year and says he’s excited not only by the clinic’s growth but by patient engagement too.
“We’ve seen a consistent increase in the number of men coming in for health check-ups – ranging from routine assessments to more complex health concerns,” he tells.
“Since my arrival, we’ve expanded our range of services to meet the diverse needs of our male patients.
“We now offer more comprehensive medical assessments and are managing increasingly complex sexual health issues. Minor procedures and surgeries involving male genitals are also now available in-clinic.”
Dr Haris attributes the increase in patient engagement to efforts by he and Peter to create a non-judgemental and
male-friendly atmosphere at the clinic, saying flexible appointment times and clear communication was encouraging patients to follow up.
Normalising check-ups was also a factor, with Dr Haris stressing the importance of preventative care.
“A yearly health check is recommended for most men, even if they feel well,” he says.
“With 1 in five men dying before the age of 65, preventative care is absolutely vital. It can reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic conditions that affect quality and length of life.”
Men’s Health Week isn’t just focused on physical health though, and neither is the BCHS Men’s Health Clinic. A series of high-profile male deaths in Victoria recently has seen the spotlight turn to men’s mental health care and Dr Haris’ message is simple – we can, and want to, help.
“Many men experience emotional distress differently, often presenting with irritability, anger, or social withdrawal rather than overt sadness – being aware of these changes is important,” he says.
“At the clinic, men can talk to myself or Peter, about what they’re going through. We are trained in mental health, offer confidential, judgement-free assessments and develop individualised management plans.
“We also work closely with in-house counsellors and psychologists and can refer out to specialist mental health services when needed.
“Seeking support early makes a huge difference. Mental health challenges are far more manageable when addressed sooner rather than later,” he urges.
This Men’s Health Week being in the driver’s seat when it comes to taking care of your health is a key message being pushed: Know the facts, know your own risks, take action and tell your mates. It’s a message that both Dr Haris and Peter are fully behind too.
“Your health is your foundation,” Dr Haris says. “Delaying a visit to us doesn’t make the problem go away – it usually just makes it harder to deal with.
“Looking after your health is about so much more than avoiding illness – it’s about living well, staying active, and being there in health for the people you care about.
“Start with something small: book a check-up, have a conversation, get moving. One step today can lead to big changes tomorrow.”
For more on our Men’s Health Clinic click here. To book an appointment call 5406 1200.
June 12, 2025
