The NHS Health Check programme is for adults in England aged between 40 and 74. If you're invited for an NHS Health Check you'll be offered a series of routine tests that will help identify your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.
You can find out more about the importance of those diseases in Why these four diseases?
Why do I need an NHS Health Check?
Everyone has a chance of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease or type 2 diabetes. NHS Health Check will help you and your GP or health professional to identify your risk earlier.
You'll then be given advice on what action you can take to lower your risk and improve your chances of a healthier life. For example, making changes to your diet or becoming more active.
How do I get an NHS Health Check?
If you're aged between 40 and 74 and haven't already been diagnosed with heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or had a stroke, you will be invited for your check at some time over the coming years. Local primary care trusts (PCTs) will choose who receives the check first. This means it may be some time before you're invited.
If you’re registered with a GP, you may be invited for the check by letter, or you may be offered the check when you're at your GP or local pharmacy for another reason. If you’re not registered with a GP, it's a good idea to register now. You can find your local GP surgery in Find and choose services.
If you’re concerned about your health, don't wait until your NHS Health Check to do something about it. Go to your GP as you would normally.
Adults who have already been diagnosed with one of the four diseases won't be invited for the check, and their condition will continue to be managed as usual.
Where will my NHS Health Check happen?
This will vary across the country. Your NHS Health Check could take place at your local GP surgery, but it may also be available at local pharmacies and elsewhere.
Your local PCT will decide on the most suitable locations for your area and it will give you the details when it invites you for your check.
What happens at my NHS Health Check?
A few, straightforward health tests, followed by a discussion of your results. Learn more in What happens at NHS Health Check?
What happens after my check?
Following your first check, you'll be invited for another check every five years until you're over 74. If you're diagnosed with heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease or have a stroke after your first or any subsequent NHS Health Check, your condition will be managed as usual and there will be no need for further checks.
If your GP offers you any medical treatments after your NHS Health Check, such as medicines to lower your blood pressure, your progress on those medicines will be monitored by your GP.
