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 in England aged 40-74 to assess cardiovascular risk.

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

What does the NHS Health Check involve?
Measurements of blood pressure, height, weight, and BMI, as well as a blood test to check cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

How often can I have an NHS Health Check?
Typically every 5 years, but may be more frequent if recommended by a healthcare professional.

Do I need to prepare for the NHS Health Check?
No specific preparation is required, but it is recommended to come hydrated and not on an empty stomach.

Will I receive my results immediately?
Results are usually available shortly after the check, but may take a few days or weeks in some cases.

What happens if my results show a high risk of cardiovascular disease?
You will be given advice and support to reduce your risk, which may include lifestyle changes or medication.

Can I request an NHS Health Check if I am outside the eligible age range?
Typically not, but certain individuals under 40 or over 74 may be eligible if they have a family history of certain health conditions.

Is the NHS Health Check confidential?
Yes, all results and discussions are confidential and only shared with your consent.

Can I decline to have an NHS Health Check?
Yes, participation is voluntary and you can choose to opt out at any time.