Taking care of your health: is it worth having an NHS Health Check?

The short answer is yes – it really is. 

As we move into our 40s, the risk of conditions such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes begins to increase – even if we feel fit and well. That’s why it’s a good idea to take up your NHS Health Check when you’re invited. 

Think of it as an MOT for your body. It’s designed to help you stay healthy, active and doing the things you enjoy for as long as possible. 

The check is free, takes around 20 minutes, and can spot early signs of health problems before they develop into something more serious. It’s a simple step that could make a big difference to your future health.  

But I feel fine – do I really need one? 

It’s a common question as many people feel perfectly well when they attend their NHS Health Check.  

The thing is, some health problems don’t have any obvious symptoms at first. High blood pressure, for example, can develop quietly over time. By the time you notice something’s wrong, it may already be affecting your health.  

An NHS Health Check helps identify these risks early, giving you the chance to act sooner – whether that’s making a few lifestyle changes or starting treatment before problems become more serious.  

And let’s be honest – most of us want to keep up with the kids, stay active, and enjoy time with family and friends. An NHS Health Check can help you keep doing the things you love. 

Taking just 20 minutes now could really benefit your future health – and your future self will thank you.  

Do GPs really want you to have an NHS Health Check? 

Yes, they do.  

Some people worry that booking a health check might take an appointment away from someone else. NHS Health Checks are carried out by healthcare assistants or practice nurses, not GPs. If you do need to see your GP afterwards, they’ll let you know.  

Watch Dr Ed talking about why he would like people to have theirs when they’re invited. 

Your GP practice will invite you to have an NHS Health Check. If you haven't received an invite and think you are eligible contact your GP practice to check if you qualify. 

What happens during the check? 

There’s no need to worry – it’s all very straightforward. During your NHS Health Check, a healthcare assistant or practice nurse will:  

• Ask a few questions about your lifestyle and family history 
• Measure your height and weight to calculate your body mass index (BMI) 
• Check your blood pressure 
• Take a simple blood test to measure cholesterol and sometimes blood sugar levels 

That’s it. No lectures, no judgement – just helpful information about your health. 

The check usually takes around 20 minutes. If anything needs to be followed up, you’ll be advised on next steps and, where appropriate, referred to your GP. 

A small step that can make a big difference 

Taking 20 minutes for your NHS Health Check today could help you enjoy many more healthy years ahead. It’s about staying well, catching potential problems early, and giving yourself the best chance to live life to the fullest. 

When your GP practice invites you, it’s worth booking your NHS Health Check. If you haven't but would like to find out if you’re eligible, contact your GP practice to check if you qualify.  

Who’s eligible? 

You may be eligible to have an NHS Health Check if you are aged between 40 and 74 and do not already have a diagnosed heart or circulation condition, diabetes, kidney disease, or high blood pressure. 

The check is also not offered if you: 

• are already taking medication (such as statins) to lower cholesterol, or 
• have previously been told you have a high risk of developing cardiovascular disease. 

Why people aged between 40 and 74? 

People under 40 are generally at much lower risk, so routine health checks are less likely to be helpful at that stage of life.  

Many people over 74 are already receiving regular checkups and care from their GP for heart or circulation conditions, which means they don’t need an NHS Health Check.