What is an NHS Health Check?
An NHS Health Check is a free check-up delivered by health professionals for adults aged 40 to 74 to help lower the risk of developing health conditions. They are designed to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and dementia.
Why should I have a NHS Health Check?
Even if you feel perfectly well, as you get older, your chances of developing certain health conditions above increase, therefore having a NHS Health Check can help you to spot signs of health conditions early and find ways to lower their risk, where we can support you to make the simple changes needed.
What does the health check involve?
- Height, Weight and BMI
- Waist measurement
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol
- Lifestyle questions
- HbA1c Blood Glucose level test
At the end of the health check, you will receive a risk score which indicates the likelihood of you developing a cardiovascular condition in the next 10 years. There will be the opportunity to discuss how making any relevant lifestyle changes could make a difference to the risk score as well as onward referrals into other services if appropriate.
Who can have a NHS Health Check?
Anyone living, working or registered at a GP in B&NES, aged between 40 – 74, who has not had an NHS Health Check in the past 5 years. NHS Health Checks are not available to those who are taking Statin medications or have been diagnosed with the following health conditions:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (stage 3-5)
- Diabetes (high blood glucose)
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Atrial Fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
- Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA – mini stroke)
- Hypercholesterolaemia (familial hypercholesterolaemia)
- Peripheral Arterial Disease
- Stroke
How often should you have a health check?
You should receive a letter from your GP surgery inviting you for a free NHS Health Check every 5 years.
For more information on the NHS Health Check go to https://www.healthcheck.nhs.uk/
Not eligible for an NHS Health Check?
If you do not meet the NHS Health Check Criteria don’t worry, we are still able to offer you a Cardiovascular Check. This will involve taking a number of health measurements from you except for a Blood Cholesterol Test which will assist our health professional in providing you with lifestyle advice and support.
