What Is an NHS Health Check? Who Can Get One and Why It Could Save Your Life

Many serious health conditions develop quietly, without causing any obvious symptoms. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes can all increase your risk of heart disease and stroke long before you feel unwell.

That's where an NHS Health Check can make a real difference.

Designed for adults aged 40 to 74, an NHS Health Check helps identify your risk of developing serious health problems and provides personalised advice to help you stay healthy.

What is an NHS Health Check?

An NHS Health Check is a free appointment that assesses your overall health and your risk of developing conditions such as:

• Heart disease

• Stroke

• Type 2 diabetes

• Kidney disease

• High blood pressure

The aim is simple: identify potential problems early, when they're often easier to prevent or treat.

Who can have an NHS Health Check?

You may be eligible if you:

• Are aged 40 to 74

• Live in Staffordshire

• Don't already have a diagnosed heart or circulatory condition, diabetes, kidney disease or high blood pressure

• Haven't had an NHS Health Check within the last five years

  
  

Eligibility can vary depending on where you live and what Doctor's Surgery you are registered at, so it's worth checking before booking.

What happens during the appointment?

Your appointment usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

During your NHS Health Check, we'll:

• Measure your blood pressure

• Check your height and weight

• Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI)

• Measure your cholesterol (where appropriate)

• Discuss your lifestyle, including smoking, alcohol intake and physical activity

• Calculate your risk of developing cardiovascular disease over the next 10 years

We'll explain your results clearly and answer any questions you may have.

Why is it important?

Many conditions don't cause symptoms until they've already affected your health.

An NHS Health Check can help identify risk factors early, giving you the opportunity to make positive changes before serious illness develops.

Even small lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of future health problems.

What happens if something is found?

If your results show an increased risk, don't panic.

We'll explain what the results mean and discuss the next steps. This may include:

• Lifestyle advice

• Referral to your GP if needed

• Further investigations

• Support to help improve your health

Early action is often the best way to protect your long-term health.

At Millers Pharmacy, we're proud to offer free NHS Health Checks for eligible patients.

Our friendly team will guide you through the process, explain your results and help you take control of your health.

Not sure if you're eligible?

Check your eligibility and book your appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an NHS Health Check really free?

Yes. If you're eligible, your NHS Health Check is provided free of charge.

How long does it take?

Most appointments take around 20–30 minutes.

Do I need to fast?

We'll let you know before your appointment if fasting is required, although many checks no longer require it.

How often can I have an NHS Health Check?

Eligible patients can usually have one every five years.

Can I have an NHS Health Check at a pharmacy?

Yes. Many of our Millers Pharmacies, offer NHS Health Checks for eligible patients.

Find Your Nearest Health Check Pharmacy