By RACHEL BERRY
Northwell Health has started a new company to give employers access to health-care services.
Northwell Direct’s launch comes as Long Island enters phase one of reopening, which includes construction, manufacturing and wholesale trade companies.
Northwell Direct gives businesses tools to monitor for COVID-19, including diagnostic testing, antibody testing and return-to-work assessments. Other services include “vaccinations, biometric screenings (including cholesterol and blood sugar), health lectures and cooking demonstrations,” according to a news release.
Employers can contact Northwell Direct to establish a health center in or near their building for preventative care and treatment for minor injuries and illnesses. The company can also monitor for compliance with regulations put in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
“In this environment of threat and uncertainty, employers want to know that they’re doing everything possible to maintain a safe environment for their employees and clients alike,” said Michael Lovett, Northwell Direct’s chief operating officer.
Northwell has been offering health solutions for the community for almost 30 years. The company has worked with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory — a nonprofit research institution in Cold Spring Harbor — since 2011, providing on-site services for employees.
These services include a wellness clinic with a nurse practitioner and a campus counselor in addition to monthly “lunch and learn” sessions with doctors.
Katie Raftery, vice president for human resources at the laboratory, said the nurse practitioner has been especially helpful during the novel coronavirus pandemic by being there to answer any questions employees had and giving them medical guidance.
“Getting involved with Northwell and having them run that center is the thing in my working career that I’m the most proud of,” Raftery said.
Northwell Direct’s services can be customized for each employer and are available throughout Long Island, New York City and Westchester County.
