Thanks to Easy on the i for the use of their image bank. 

Download What is an annual health check? Long easy read PDF.

illustration of a GP in their office

An annual health check is when the doctor or nurse checks how your health is. An annual health check is offered to all people with a learning disability from age 14.

You go to your doctor’s surgery each year for your health check.

illustration representing staying healthy and well

You don’t need to be unwell to have an annual health check, most people go when they are feeling well and healthy.

illustration of a doctor and a nurse

You might see your doctor or nurse.

illustration of two people asking the doctor a question

You can think about questions you might want to ask your doctor or nurse, this might be about something that is worrying or hurting you.

illustration of calendar pointing to next year

You can go for your annual health check once a year.

illustration of two letters

You usually get a letter in the post to remind you to make an appointment, you can ask someone to help you to make an appointment.

clock showing thirty minutes passing

Health checks usually take between half an hour and 1 hour.

illustration of friend and carer

You can ask someone to come to your health check with you if you want.

medicine bottles four faces showing different feelings illustration of fruit and veg illustration of toilet

At a health check the doctor or nurse will ask you questions about your health and wellbeing. They will ask things like;

  • What medicine you take
  • If you are happy or sad
  • What food you eat
  • About your poo.
weighing scales illustration of taking a persons temperature illustration of blood pressure monitor on an arm

They will also check things like;

  • How much you weigh
  • Your eyes
  • Your temperature
  • Your blood pressure.
illustration of stethoscope

The doctor or nurse might ask you to lift your top up a little bit, so they can check things like;

  • Your chest
  • Your tummy.
illustration of urine sample

Your doctor or nurse might want to check your wee.

You can bring this with you in a clean bottle, or your doctor or nurse might give you one at your appointment to wee in.

illustration of saying no

You can say no to any part of the health check if you are unhappy.

illustration of staying health and well through exercise and diet

To help you stay healthy and well.

illustration of GP sat at desk

You can talk to your doctor or nurse about anything you might be worried about.

If there is anything wrong with you, your doctor can help you.

You will get to know your doctor and they will get to know you better.