Discovery takes steps to enhance and protect more South African lives

Discovery Health is making advances in tackling the HIV AIDS epidemic head-on, says Neville Koopowitz, Chief Executive of Discovery Health.

"Our investment in halting the AIDS epidemic in South Africa is a serious matter for us and we have decided to enter this fight with energy and determination," says Koopowitz.

"We are using Discovery's reach and experience to mobilise as many people as possible to get tested."

Discovery Health provides a corporate wellness programme, that incorporates HIV/Aids management, to companies with more than 100 employers. However, in 2009 it plans toextendthe programme to employer groups with more than 35 employees.

Discovery Health’s corporate wellness programme integrates with Discovery HIVCare to offer an employer-based HIV and AIDS management strategy.

"We are also extending our wellness assets to the broader community. Discovery is incentivising South Africans to receive voluntary counselling and testing. It is our sincere wish to contribute to greater awareness of HIV and AIDS and ultimately help to contain the impact of the disease on our country and its people.’’

Discovery believes strongly that early HIV testing, ongoing education and effective care will motivate behavioural change.

"HIV AIDS should be a concern of every South African citizen and an issue that is on top of the business agenda everyday, not just on World AIDS day," concludes Koopowitz.