Health checks for people with learning disabilities

March 2016

NHS Castle Point and Rochford CCG is encouraging people with learning disabilities to get their free annual health check.

The Annual Health Check scheme is for adults with learning disabilities who need more health support and who may otherwise have health conditions that go undetected. People aged 18 and over who have been assessed as having moderate, severe or profound learning disabilities, or people with a mild learning disability who have other complex health needs, are entitled to a free annual health check.

During the health check, the GP or practice nurse will carry out the following for the patient:

 a general physical examination, including checking their weight, heart rate, blood pressure and taking blood and urine samples

 assessing the patient’s behaviour, including asking questions about their lifestyle, and mental health

 a check for epilepsy

 a check on any prescribed medicines the patient is currently taking

 a check on whether any chronic illnesses, such as asthma or diabetes, are being well managed

 about information on local screening programmes e.g. mammograms

 a review of any arrangements with other health professionals, such as physiotherapists or speech therapists

Dr Chana from local GP group, GP Healthcare Alliance who are helping to carry out local LD health checks said:

“People with learning disabilities often have difficulty in recognising illness, communicating their needs and using health services. Research shows that regular health checks for people with learning disabilities often uncover treatable health conditions. Most of these are simple to treat and make the person feel better, while sometimes serious illnesses such as cancer are found at an early stage when they can be treated.

The annual health check will help to identify and treat medical conditions early and screen for health issues particular to people with learning disabilities.

I would encourage all people with learning disabilities and their carers to contact their GP practice to book their annual health check as soon as possible.”

To book this annual health check for you or the person you care for, contact your GP practice. For more information about the annual health check, visit:

http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Childrenwithalearningdisability/Pages/AnnualHealthChecks.aspx