Residents registered with an Oxfordshire GP Practice can take advantage of the free NHS Health Checks.
This check helps identify if you’re at risk of developing conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, or dementia.
What NHS Health Checks offer
NHS Health Checks are preventive measures. They help detect potential health problems before they become serious.
Key factors that can increase your risk include;
- being overweight
- lack of physical activity
- unhealthy eating habits
- smoking
- drinking too much alcohol
- high blood pressure
- high cholesterol
Eligibility for a Health Check
To qualify for a free NHS Health Check, you must be between 40 and 74 years old and do not have any of the following pre-existing conditions:
- heart disease
- chronic kidney disease
- diabetes
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- atrial fibrillation
- transient ischemic attack
- inherited high cholesterol (familial hypercholesterolemia)
- heart failure
- peripheral arterial disease
- stroke
- currently being prescribed statins to lower cholesterol
Booking your NHS Health Check
Health Checks Oxfordshire provides convenient locations across the county. These sites are accessible and have flexible hours to fit your schedule. If you’re eligible, you can book an appointment online or wait for an invitation from your GP practice.
Check if you are eligible and book now
Taking the time for an NHS Health Check can lead to early detection and better management of potential health issues, helping you live a longer, healthier life.
What happens during the check
The health check takes about 30 minutes. During your appointment, a health professional will:
- measure your height, weight, and waist circumference
- check your blood pressure
- take a blood sample to check your cholesterol levels
- ask about your family medical history, lifestyle, and alcohol consumption
This process is straightforward and doesn’t require any physical examination or clothing removal. Afterwards, you will receive your results and personalised advice on how to improve your health.
Oxfordshire GP Practices
You’ll be invited by your GP Practice for a free NHS Health Check every 5 years if you’re eligible. However, please be aware that currently not all Oxfordshire GP Practices are delivering NHS Health Checks.