NHS Health Check
The NHS Health Check is a free check-up that can help spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes or dementia. It is offered to eligible people aged 40 to 74, usually once every 5 years.
Being in this age group does not automatically mean you are eligible. Some existing conditions or treatments mean an NHS Health Check is not usually offered, because those health needs are already monitored through routine care. Read the full eligibility criteria on NHS.UK.
How to get your NHS Health Check
Already registered with Willows Health?
If you are eligible, your practice will contact you directly to arrange your NHS Health Check. You do not need to request one.
If you think you are eligible and have not heard from us, contact your practice.
Looking for a GP practice?
Check whether a Willows Health practice covers your address using our postcode checker, then register with a practice.
Once your registration has been accepted, your practice will contact you directly if you are eligible for an NHS Health Check. Registering does not guarantee an NHS Health Check or an immediate appointment.
How it helps you
An NHS Health Check can tell you if you're at higher risk of getting certain health problems. This includes:
- heart disease
- diabetes
- kidney disease
- strokes
During the check-up, we'll discuss how to reduce your risk and help you make a plan to stay healthy.
If you're over 65, we'll also talk about the signs and symptoms of dementia.
Who is eligible
The NHS Health Check is a free NHS service. You may be eligible if you are aged 40 to 74 and have not had an NHS Health Check in the last 5 years.
You will not usually be eligible if you already have certain conditions or treatments that are monitored through routine care, including:
- heart disease or heart failure
- chronic kidney disease
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- atrial fibrillation or peripheral arterial disease
- a previous stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
- familial hypercholesterolaemia
- treatment with statins
- a previous cardiovascular risk assessment of 20% or more
Your practice will use your health record to assess whether you meet the NHS criteria and are due for a check.
What to expect
An NHS Health Check takes about 30 minutes. A nurse or healthcare assistant will:
- ask some questions about your lifestyle and family history
- measure your height and weight
- take your blood pressure
- do a blood test
We'll then give you personalised advice to help you stay healthy.
Find out more
For more information, read NHS advice about NHS health checks.