NHS Health Checks

Most people feel well, healthy and happy most of the time and rarely need to use their GP or visit their GP surgery. As a general rule, 90% of people don’t need their GP practice for 90% of the time.

Sometimes, however, we are not as healthy as we think. Public health measures and education, including NHS Health Checks, aim to detect the early signs, and then prevent the emergence of, preventable disease and illnesses like Type II Diabetes.

The NHS Health Check tests a number of things like cholesterol and glucose levels, kidney function, height, weight, BMI and blood pressure. The aim of the check is to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, Type II Diabetes or dementia. As we get older we have a higher risk of developing one of these conditions and and NHS Health Check helps to find ways to lower this risk.

When aged between 40 and 74 years old, and with no other pre-existing conditions, it is recommended that you should get an NHS Health Check (or health MOT) every 5 years; usually in the month of your birthday. From the age of 75 years onwards, you’ll be invited for regular check-ups more often.

When you receive an invitation, please arrange an appointment with your GP practice. Your healthcare professional will discuss the results with you and will advise and help you to lower your risk of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes and dementia, and maintain or improve your health.