What happens when healthcare comes to you instead of the other way around? That's exactly what Arthritis New Zealand and ProCare discovered during a recent gout awareness and screening event at the Auckland International Airport construction site.
The aim was simple: make it easier for workers to learn about gout and check their uric acid levels without having to take time off work or fit appointments into already busy schedules. For many people, especially those working long shifts, getting to a GP during normal clinic hours can be a real challenge.
The response was incredible. Forty-seven men aged between 19 and 66 took part in the screening. The group reflected the diversity of Auckland's workforce, with many participants from Filipino, Pacific, Māori and other communities.
What the team found highlighted just how important these outreach programmes can be. More than 90% of participants had elevated uric acid levels and symptoms that could suggest gout. They were encouraged to follow up with their GP for further assessment and treatment. During the screening session, two workers were experiencing such severe gout pain that they removed their work boots for relief.
The event also helped connect people with healthcare services. Three workers who were not enrolled with a general practice received support to register and access ongoing care.
One of the most valuable parts of the day was the opportunity for workers to talk openly about gout. Education sessions held during shared meal breaks created a relaxed environment where colleagues could ask questions, compare experiences and learn from one another. These conversations helped break down some of the stigma that can surround gout and increased understanding of the importance of treatment and ongoing uric acid monitoring.
Workers shared how difficult it can be to attend medical appointments when long workdays often start before dawn and finish well into the evening. Bringing health services directly into the workplace helped remove those barriers and made healthcare more accessible.
The success of this initiative shows that workplace outreach can play an important role in improving gout awareness and supporting earlier treatment. By combining culturally responsive education with on-site health screening, Arthritis New Zealand and ProCare created a practical pathway from learning about gout to accessing professional care.
Looking ahead, there are exciting opportunities to expand this approach across New Zealand. Future programmes could include repeat workplace visits, follow-up education sessions and on-site uric acid testing to help people monitor their gout more easily.
Most importantly, this project demonstrated that when healthcare meets people where they are, more people can get the support they need to live well with gout.
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