NHS Health Check

The NHS Health Check is a free service offered by the National Health Service (NHS) in England to adults aged 40-74 who do not have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Purpose of the NHS Health Check

The main purpose of the NHS Health Check is to assess an individual's risk of developing certain health problems, such as:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney disease
• Diabetes

What the NHS Health Check involves

The NHS Health Check typically involves a series of tests and assessments, including:

• Blood pressure check
• Cholesterol test (to assess lipid profiles)
• Blood glucose test (to check for diabetes)
• Body mass index (BMI) calculation
• Family medical history assessment
• Lifestyle assessment (including diet, physical activity, and smoking status)

How the NHS Health Check is carried out

The NHS Health Check can be carried out by a:

• GP or practice nurse at your local surgery
• Pharmacist
• Healthcare professional at a community clinic

What happens after the NHS Health Check

After the NHS Health Check, you will receive:

• A summary of your results
• Advice on how to reduce your risk of developing certain health problems
• Referral to other services if necessary (e.g. smoking cessation or weight management programs)

Eligibility for the NHS Health Check

The NHS Health Check is available to adults aged 40-74 who:

• Do not have any pre-existing medical conditions (such as heart disease, diabetes, or kidney disease)
• Are not already being monitored by their GP for any health problems

Frequency of the NHS Health Check

The NHS Health Check is typically offered every 5 years to eligible adults.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an NHS Health Check?
A free health check for adults aged 40-74 in England.

Who is eligible for an NHS Health Check?
Adults aged 40-74 who are not already diagnosed with certain health conditions.

What does the NHS Health Check involve?
Blood pressure, cholesterol, and BMI checks, plus a discussion about lifestyle.

Why do I need an NHS Health Check?
To assess risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and diabetes.

How often can I have an NHS Health Check?
Every 5 years if results are normal.

Can I get an NHS Health Check at my GP surgery?
Yes, or at a pharmacy or other NHS-approved location.

Do I need to prepare for the NHS Health Check?
No, but wear loose clothing and avoid eating a heavy meal beforehand.

Will I get the results of my NHS Health Check straight away?
Some results will be available immediately, others may take a few days.

What happens if my NHS Health Check results show a problem?
Your healthcare professional will discuss next steps and possible treatment.

Is the NHS Health Check confidential?
Yes, all NHS Health Checks are confidential and your data is protected.