What is a Health Assessment and Why Do I Need One?
Don’t wait until you’re sick to see a doctor. Discover the benefits of regular health assessments and what to expect during your comprehensive check-up at Parkmore Medical Centre.
In our busy lives, it’s easy to put our own health on the back burner. We often wait until something feels wrong before we book a doctor’s appointment. But what if you could catch potential health issues before they become serious problems?
That’s the power of preventative care, and one of its most important tools is a Health Assessment.
A health assessment is a comprehensive check-up that goes beyond a standard consultation. It’s designed to identify health risks, provide early detection of illness, and give you a clear, proactive plan to maintain your health and wellbeing for the future. It’s about moving from reactive sick-care to proactive healthcare.
Why are Health Assessments So Important?
- Early Detection: Many serious conditions, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers, can develop silently with few early symptoms. A health assessment can identify risk factors and early warning signs, allowing for timely intervention.
- Prevention: The assessment provides the perfect opportunity to discuss your lifestyle, including diet, exercise, alcohol consumption, and stress levels. Your GP can provide tailored advice and strategies to reduce your risk of future illness.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a clear picture of your health and a plan to stay well is incredibly reassuring.
What Health Assessments are Available?
At Parkmore Medical Centre, we offer a range of bulk-billed health assessments funded by Medicare for eligible patients, including:
- The 45-49 Year Old Health Check: This is a one-off assessment designed to evaluate your risk of developing chronic diseases as you enter middle age.
- The 75+ Health Assessment: An annual check-up for older Australians, focusing on maintaining independence, mobility, and quality of life.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Assessment: An annual comprehensive health check available to people of all ages.
What's Typically Included in a Health Assessment?
During your assessment, your GP or our practice nurse will thoroughly review:
- Your medical and family history
- Your lifestyle (nutrition, physical activity, smoking, alcohol)
- Blood pressure, height, weight, and BMI
- Risk factors for various diseases
- Blood tests for cholesterol, blood sugar, and more
- A review of your immunisation status
Following the assessment, your GP will discuss the results with you and, together, you’ll create a plan to address any concerns and optimise your health
Your GP is Your Best Resource
Investing an hour in a health assessment today could give you many more healthy years in the future.
Don’t wait for a health problem to find you. Be proactive. Contact Parkmore Medical Centre to find out if you’re eligible for a bulk-billed Health Assessment. Call us or book your appointment online now.
Written by the medical team at Parkmore Medical Centre.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.
