At School Lane Surgery, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life. One important way we can support people with a learning disability is through an annual health check.
What is a Learning Disability Annual Health Check?
Anyone aged 14 or over who has a learning disability and is on our Learning Disability Register is entitled to a free annual health check.
It is an opportunity to identify health concerns early, review any existing conditions and make sure the right care and support are in place.
You do not need to feel unwell to have an annual health check. The appointment is designed to help you stay well and prevent problems from becoming more serious.
Why are annual health checks important?
People with a learning disability can be more likely to experience health problems. Some conditions may also be harder to recognise or explain. A regular health check gives you, your family or carer, and the surgery team dedicated time to talk about your health and any support you may need.
An annual health check may include:
- Checking your physical and mental health
- Reviewing any long-term conditions
- Reviewing the medicines you take
- Talking about diet, exercise and healthy living
- Checking whether vaccinations and screening are up to date
- Discussing any reasonable adjustments or extra support you need
- Agreeing a Health Action Plan to help you stay well throughout the year
Who can join the Learning Disability Register?
Babies, children, young people and adults with a learning disability can be included on their GP practice’s Learning Disability Register, whatever their age or level of learning disability.
If you think you or someone you care for has a learning disability but are unsure whether they are on the register, please contact the surgery. Our team will be happy to check and discuss the next steps with you.
What happens during the appointment?
Your annual health check is a chance to have an open and relaxed conversation about your health. The clinician may check your height, weight, blood pressure or other aspects of your physical health where appropriate. They may also talk with you about your emotional wellbeing, medicines, lifestyle, screening and vaccinations.
You can tell us if there is anything that would make the appointment easier. This could include having information explained in a different way, allowing extra time, bringing a family member or carer, or making another reasonable adjustment.
After the appointment, you should have a Health Action Plan. This records the steps that you and the people supporting you can take to help you stay healthy.
Screening appointments matter too!
It is also important to attend screening appointments when you are invited. Screening can help find early signs of ill health. Depending on your age and circumstances, this may include cervical screening, breast screening, bowel cancer screening, abdominal aortic aneurysm screening, or diabetic eye screening.
Book your annual health check
If you have a learning disability and are aged 14 or over, we encourage you to have your annual health check each year. It is a valuable opportunity to ask questions, talk about any worries and receive the support you need to stay well.
If you would like to check whether you are on the Learning Disability Register, or arrange your annual health check, please contact the surgery and a member of our team will be happy to help.
Your health matters. A simple annual health check can make a real difference.