What is an NHS Health Check?

The NHS Health Check is a health check-up for adults in England aged 40-74. It’s designed to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes or dementia. As we get older, we have a higher risk of developing one of these conditions. An NHS Health Check helps find ways to lower this risk.

How do I get an NHS Health Check?

If you’re in the 40-74 age group without a pre-existing condition, you can expect to receive an invitation for a free NHS Health Check every five years. If you think you are eligible and have not yet received an invitation, please contact reception who will be happy to check your eligibility and make an appointment for you.

What will happen at my appointment?

Your appointment with our treatment room team will take around 20-30 minutes.

You will be asked some simple questions about your lifestyle and family history, your height and weight will be measured, blood pressure taken and a blood test will be done to check your kidneys, cholesterol, glucose, liver and full blood count. A finger prick check is also done to check your overall cholesterol. It gives the nurse/HCA (Health Care Assistant) a result in just 3 minutes!

Based on these results, the nurse/HCA will be able to give you an idea of your chances of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and diabetes.

If you’re over 65, you will also be told the signs and symptoms of dementia to look out for.

You will then receive personalised advice to lower your risk. This could include talking about:

• How to improve your diet and the amount of physical activity you do
• Taking medicines to lower your blood pressure or cholesterol
• How to lose weight or stop smoking

Did you know:

• For every 27 people having an NHS health Check, one person is diagnosed as having high blood pressure
• For every 110 people having an NHS health Check, one person is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes
• For every 265 people having an NHS Health Check, one person is diagnosed with kidney disease.

How can I improve my test results?

Once you’ve had your NHS Health Check, the nurse/HCA will discuss your results with you. You’ll be given advice to help you lower your risk of a stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes or dementia, and maintain or improve your health.