NHS Health Checks

The NHS Health Check Programme is a universal risk assessment programme for people aged 40-74 years who have no previous diagnosis of cardiovascular disease. An offer of a health check is made every 5 years to eligible persons registered with a GP and is an important part in the national strategies to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease through prevention.

The Check involves a 30-minute appointment where a risk assessment is carried out based on questions about an individual’s lifestyle, and the recording of pulse rhythm, blood pressure, height and weight. A blood test is also taken to measure cholesterol and an additional blood test for diabetes if the person is deemed to be at risk. The results of the risk assessment are then collated, and a cardiovascular risk score (known as QRISK 3) is calculated. The service user may attend for a further appointment where the results are communicated, and relevant tailored lifestyle advice and behaviour change support is given. If required, referrals can be made to appropriate lifestyle services, such as for weight management or smoking cessation.

Due to the number of GP practices/pharmacies across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly Cornwall Council have been working with the LMC and will commission this offer via a framework agreement, which will note the requirement to access patient NHS records to deliver the programme.

The LMC see the benefits of the light touch framework which will mean GPs are on an Approved Supplier List for 5 years, each with an individual contract relating to the framework agreement and they can be held accountable. The GPs are the asset owners for all medical records and consequently have the necessary details to identify the individuals suitable for Health checks. GP’s will issue the invite and receive a fee for the issuing of the invite. The location of GP Practises across Cornwall and Ios, along with having all the necessary performance standards and quality checks completed by the NHS makes GP’s the ideal Provider. Any follow ups are continued by the GP Practise. LA’s use GPs to provide this service as the National Performance Standard and we will replicate this should this route be approved.

Should a particular GP Practise be unable to carry out Health checks, we would ensure we have the capability to sub-contract to other GP’s or Pharmacies (subject to discussions and Quality checks) in line with the ICB (Integrated Care Board) priorities.