It's Easier Than Ever to Access NHS Health Checks

21 Nov 2023 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

It is easier than ever for people aged 40 to 74 to get a free NHS health check, with the service now available in even more locations across Northumberland. 

As part of a pilot project, Northumberland County Council’s Public Health Team has allocated up to £300k over the next three years to test the direct delivery of NHS Health Checks by its in-house Health Trainer Team.  

This new outreach model will run alongside the GP offer and will involve Health Trainers delivering checks in targeted workplaces and community settings. 

Free NHS Health Checks, commissioned by councils as part of their public health responsibilities, help relieve pressures on our NHS and care system, save lives and prevent people from developing life-threatening conditions by assessing the risk of developing heart disease and stroke, and providing advice and support to reduce the risk of developing these conditions, as well as dementia. 

Local authorities have a statutory obligation to ensure eligible residents are offered a check every five years from the age of 40. 

Cllr Veronica Jones, cabinet member for Public Health at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are delighted to be part of a pilot programme that helps to promote uptake of NHS Health Checks in Northumberland and makes it even easier for people to access them.  We know that there is low uptake in men, and those aged 40-60 in parts of Northumberland, so that will be a particular focus for us. 

“The NHS Health Check is a free, in person check-up for adults aged between 40-74 and takes just 20-30 minutes. Results are given during the appointment, and you may be given advice about how to lower your risk, including advice on things like healthy eating, increasing physical activity or stopping smoking.”  

To be eligible for a health check you must: 
- Be aged 40-74. 
- Be registered with GP in Northumberland. 
- Have not had an NHS Health Check in the last 5 years. 
- Have no pre-existing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease or stroke.  
- Not be on statins. 

As part of the pilot, on November 27, 9am-4pm, NHS Health Checks will be available on the Melissa Bus at Morrisons Car Park, Regent St, Blyth NE24 1ES. 

Cllr Jones continued: “If you can’t get along to the Melissa Bus, you could ask your GP surgery if they offer the NHS Health Check and if they can, to let you know when you will be invited.” 

More information is available by emailing healthtrainers@northumberland.gov.uk or logging on to www.livingwellnorthumberland.co.uk