Truck drivers face unique health challenges that can be preventable but still take them off the road, affecting both their well-being and their work. The St. Christopher Fund (SCF) is committed to helping drivers stay healthy through a range of free health and wellness programs specifically designed for Class A over-the-road (OTR) semi-truck drivers.
Supporting Drivers Beyond the Cab
SCF assists drivers who are sick or injured with short-term essential living expenses, including rent or mortgage, utilities, vehicle payments, and insurance. These resources help drivers maintain stability while recovering and staying on track financially.
Driven to be Healthy
The Driven to be Healthy initiative is SCF’s comprehensive approach to health and wellness. It focuses on preventive care and small, actionable lifestyle changes that can make a lasting impact. All programs under Driven to be Healthy are fully free to Class A OTR drivers.
Rigs Without Cigs
Rigs Without Cigs is SCF’s longest-running tobacco cessation program. Drivers have access to Habitrol nicotine patches, a certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist, online support groups, and incentive prizes for reaching tobacco-free milestones. This program is supported by SCF partner RoadPro.
Vaccine Vouchers
The Vaccination Vouchers program provides flu, shingles, pneumonia, and COVID-19 vaccines for drivers. Vouchers can be redeemed at Walgreens, Kroger and the Kroger Family of Pharmacies, The Little Clinic, Walmart, and Sam’s Club locations nationwide. Support from OOIDA allows drivers to use vouchers conveniently while away from home.
Get Preventive Screenings (GPS)
The Get Preventative Screenings (GPS) program offers preventive screenings, including colorectal and prostate cancer, with cervical cancer screenings coming soon. The program allows drivers to complete testing while on the road. Colorectal cancer results are available in five minutes, and PSA results for prostate cancer are returned within two weeks, thanks to SCF partner Call-on-Doc.
Healthy Habits for the Long Haul (HH4LH)
Healthy Habits for the Long Haul (HH4LH) is a 12-week virtual program that helps drivers prevent and manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and coronary artery disease. The program covers nutrition labels, hydration, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and more. Drivers can participate in small group sessions, sharing challenges and strategies with fellow OTR drivers.
Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)
The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is another 12-week virtual course designed to reduce the risk of diabetes. Drivers receive a toolkit including a scale, blood pressure cuff, glucose meter, body tape measure, fitness tracker, and resistance bands. The program recently reintroduced the CDC’s year-long Diabetes Prevention Program in partnership with HabitNu. Participants benefit from the HabitNu app, which provides tracking tools, podcasts, and trucking-tailored workouts, helping prediabetic drivers prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
Telehealth and Mental Health Support
SCF recognizes that health also includes mental well-being. Partners such as Call-on-Doc, Everywhere. Care, MindHealth Management, and Corporate Chaplains of America provide telehealth services, counseling, and support for drivers nationwide. These services make medical care and mental health support accessible even while on the road.
Getting Started
Drivers interested in SCF’s free health and wellness programs can register at truckersfund.org/healthwellness. To suggest topics for future programs or share ideas, contact Lindsey Bryan, SCF Health and Wellness Manager, at health@truckersfund.org.
By offering preventive care, wellness programs, and mental health resources, SCF empowers drivers to stay healthy, maintain their livelihoods, and thrive on the road.
Source: The Trucker
Image Source:Truckers Fund
