LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Several members of the Jeffersonville Police Department received vital health checks this week courtesy of National Diagnostic Services, a mobile unit that brings a full range of medical exams directly to the officers.

The mobile unit, parked outside the Jeffersonville Police Department, is offering a variety of health services, including EKGs, blood pressure checks and other vital tests. For the department's command staff, Friday marked day five of the program.

"I had my blood pressure taken in three or four different areas," said Assistant Police Chief Michael McVoy, one of the officers taking part in the initiative. "Today, I also took the EKG."

The program was introduced in light of growing concerns over the health risks that come with the high-stress nature of police work. The initiative follows incidents in the area, such as the death of a man following a standoff with police in August 2023 and a high-speed chase involving two arrests last September.

"This job is stressful, and our officers face a variety of traumatic events on a daily basis," said City Council President Evan Stoner, who toured the mobile unit Friday morning. "We want to ensure they have access to these kinds of health screenings so we can catch potential issues before they become serious."

The exams have already proven valuable. McVoy reported that roughly 50% of the department has participated, and, in some cases, medical staff identified chronic health issues among the officers.

"I think this has saved lives," McVoy said. "It's not just about getting a checkup — it's about catching something early."

Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore, who also toured the mobile unit, noted the program was funded using forfeiture money, meaning it didn't cost taxpayers.

"The bad guys are paying for it," he said Friday. "Sometimes, you have to spend a little to save a lot."

The Jeffersonville Police Department plans to make the medical exams an annual event.

"It's been very positive, whether it was diet, blood pressure or blood work," McVoy said. "The officers appreciate the convenience, and it's easy: come to work, get checked and you're back out on the road in no time."

City officials and police leadership hope this initiative will help improve the overall health and well-being of officers, ensuring they are physically prepared to handle the demands of their challenging jobs.

And as the mobile unit packs up this weekend, the department is already considering how to expand the program in the future.

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