NHS Health Check

The NHS Health Check is a free health assessment designed to help prevent heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and, in some cases, dementia. It helps identify early signs of health conditions and provides an opportunity to discuss steps that can improve health and reduce future risk.

The NHS Health Check is available to people aged 40 to 74 who do not already have certain pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease or high blood pressure. Eligible individuals are usually invited every five years.

Many of the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease have no obvious symptoms. A person may feel well but still have high blood pressure, raised cholesterol or other risk factors. The NHS Health Check helps people understand their risk and take action early.

During an NHS Health Check, a healthcare professional will typically measure:

  • Height and weight
  • Waist measurement
  • Blood pressure
  • Cholesterol levels
  • Blood sugar levels (where appropriate)

They will also discuss lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity and family history to assess future cardiovascular risk.

A brief conversation can help raise awareness of the NHS Health Check and encourage people to take up the offer when eligible.

Very Brief Intervention

Ask

Use open, person-centred questions to explore awareness and encourage discussion.

Examples include:

  • Have you heard of the NHS Health Check?
  • Have you ever been invited for an NHS Health Check?
  • Do you know what an NHS Health Check involves?
  • When was the last time you had your blood pressure or cholesterol checked?
  • How do you feel about your current health and wellbeing?
  • Are there any health conditions that run in your family?
  • Have you thought about ways to reduce your risk of future health problems?
  • Is there any support or information that would help you look after your health?
  • What matters most to you about your health at the moment?

Remember:

  • Focus on prevention and future wellbeing rather than illness.
  • Avoid judgement about lifestyle choices.
  • Recognise that people may have different levels of awareness, confidence and access to services.

Assist

Listen with empathy and encourage the person to think about their health and any positive changes they may wish to make.

You might say:

"The NHS Health Check is a good opportunity to understand more about your health and any risks you may not be aware of."

"Many conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol do not cause symptoms, so a health check can help identify any concerns early."

"Even small changes can make a difference to your long-term health."

Depending on the conversation, you could discuss:

Healthy lifestyle choices

Encourage positive actions that support cardiovascular health and overall wellbeing:

Explain that the NHS Health Check is not a test that someone passes or fails. It provides information about their current health and future risk, helping them make informed decisions about their wellbeing. Depending on the results, some people may be offered additional support, lifestyle services or medication to help reduce their risk.

Act

If the person would like further information or support, encourage them to access trusted national sources.

NHS Health Check

Find out more about eligibility, what happens during the check and how to access one.

Web: NHS Health Check

NHS Heart Age Tool

A simple online tool that helps people understand how lifestyle and risk factors may affect heart health.

Web: NHS Heart Age Tool

NHS Better Health

Provides practical support and advice on:

  • Healthy eating
  • Physical activity
  • Weight management
  • Smoking cessation
  • Alcohol reduction

Web: NHS Better Health

Local NHS Health Check Services

If someone believes they are eligible but has not received an invitation, encourage them to contact their GP practice or local council to find out where NHS Health Checks are available in your area.

MECC Key Messages

  • The NHS Health Check is a free prevention programme for eligible adults aged 40 to 74.
  • Many risk factors for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and kidney disease have no symptoms.
  • Early identification of risk provides an opportunity to take action before health problems develop.
  • Small lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on long-term health.
  • Encourage people to take up their NHS Health Check when invited.
  • Support people to access trusted information and local services that can help them improve their health and wellbeing.
  • Every conversation is an opportunity to promote prevention and support healthier futures

 

Local Support and Contact Details