NHS Health Check

We get the car serviced, we get the boiler looked at, but how often do we get ourselves checked? Almost never is probably the answer for most of us, but now that’s about to change.

A free NHS Health Check for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and kidney disease is now available to people in Medway aged between 40 and 74. It will give you and your GP a clearer picture of your health, and help you take action to reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and kidney disease.

How do I book my free NHS Health Check?

You will be invited for a first check by your GP – unless you have already been diagnosed with one of the conditions. In this case, you will continue to be checked in your usual way.

The check consists of a:

• Blood pressure and cholesterol test
• Height and weight measurement
• Questions about medical history including age and ethnic background and that of your close family

What happens after the check?

You will be taken through your results and told what they mean

• You will be given personalised advice on how to lower your risk and maintain a healthy lifestyle
• You will be offered information about services in Medway that can help
• Some people will be asked to come back for a further blood test to check on their kidneys and a different test to check for type 2 diabetes
• Treatment or medication may be prescribed to help maintain your health

More information

Visit NHS Choices