Suffolk residents urged to take up free NHS Health Checks

Why it matters: These checks can be lifesaving by identifying increased risks of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and dementia before they develop.

The big picture: Suffolk GP Federation has been awarded a contract to deliver over 23,000 NHS Health Checks annually in the county. Additionally, Suffolk County Council has received government funding to provide 2,000 extra checks in workplaces by March 2025.

What they're saying: Cllr Steve Wiles, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection at Suffolk County Council, said:

"NHS Health Checks are an important tool in spotting health conditions early and helping people become more aware of what they can do to improve their health and wellbeing in the future. Prevention is always better than cure and I encourage residents who are invited for a free health check to make an appointment as soon as possible."

Julie Smith, Managing Director at Suffolk GP Federation, added:

"We are delighted to take on the contract for delivering NHS Health Checks in Suffolk on behalf of Suffolk County Council.

"Not only will we be inviting eligible people to attend a Health Check at their local GP Practice or pharmacy, we will also be visiting local communities so more people can take advantage of the checks."

What's next: Eligible residents will receive a text message inviting them to book a Health Check appointment. The text will include a link to a short questionnaire where they can:

• Choose their preferred location (GP practice or local pharmacy)

• Select convenient days and times for the appointment

• Indicate any other preferences

The Suffolk GP Federation will also conduct outreach in local communities to increase accessibility.

The bottom line: These free health checks allow selected residents to manage their health and potentially prevent serious conditions proactively. However, some will raise questions about how these checks will be delivered by GPs who are already overstretched and the potential impact they could have on appointment availability.

To find out more: For more information about the Suffolk NHS Health Check Service, visit www.suffolkfed.org.uk/healthcare-services/nhs-health-checks/.