Recommended Regular Health Checks

At Brookwater Medical Centre, we believe that regular health checks are an essential part of maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. Regular health checks can help detect potential health problems early, so you can take steps to manage or treat them before they become more serious. 

What are regular health checks?

Regular health checks are a series of medical tests and evaluations that are designed to assess your overall health and wellbeing. They typically involve a comprehensive physical examination, measurements such as height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse rate, and various diagnostic tests such as blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging scans.

Who needs regular health checks?

Regular health checks are recommended for everyone, regardless of their age or health status. However, some people may need more frequent or specialized health checks depending on their medical history, lifestyle habits, or risk factors for certain diseases. Your healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate frequency and type of health checks for you.

What are benefits of regular health checks?

Regular health checks can provide many benefits, including early detection and treatment of potential health problems, improved management of chronic conditions, and better overall health and wellbeing. They can also help you stay up-to-date on important health screenings and immunizations, and provide an opportunity to discuss any health concerns or questions with your healthcare provider.

What health checks can I complete at home?

1. Check your moles for irregularities and changes.
2. Revise your drinking habits. The Australian Alcohol Guidelines recommend that healthy adults should drink no more than 10 standard drinks in a week, and no more than 4 standard drinks on any one day. People under 18, and women who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding shouldn’t drink any alcohol.
3. Assess your diet. Keeping a food journal for a couple of weeks can help you assess whether you are getting enough serves or over indulging. If uncertain, you can book one of our dietitians for further advice.
4. Revise your exercise routine. If you look at your calendar and realise that you are not working out for 30-60mins each day, it is time to make a plan. Picking up a fun sport as a family, going for walks, or joining a quality gym (such as the CORE health club) can make a significant improvement to your physical and mental health.
5. Quit smoking. If you haven’t already, book a regular time into your calendar to check in and celebrate being smoke-free. There are also resources online to support your decision to quit.
6. Check your weight irregularly. Being underweight or overweight both carry health risks. While it is a good idea to know what your current and healthy weight is, you may avoid focusing on the scales by tracking how your clothes fit and your energy levels through the day. To determine your healthy ideal, read more here.
7. By answering a few questions online, you can assess your risk of developing diabetes over the next 5 years. A health professional, such as a GP, can also assist you to complete this test. If you have any concerns after completing this test, book an appointment with your GP.
8. From the age of 25, become familiar with the way your breasts look and feel. If you notice any changes or abnormalities, talk to your GP.
9. For those aged 50 to 74, you can order kits to test for bowel cancer from the comfort of your own home. These are provided by the government for free.

What health checks should I see a professional for?

1. Have your moles checked by a doctor every year. At Brookwater Medical Centre, we provide a range of skin services, including mole mapping.
2. See a dentist every year to ensure your dental health is maintained through examination and professional cleaning.
3. Blood pressure checks are one measure to track your heart health. We recommend having this checked every 2 years until you are 40. For those over 40, blood pressure checks are best to be done annually.
4. Your weight should be checked by both BMI and waist measurements. We recommend having this checked every 2 years, with more regular testing for those at higher risk.
5. Those between the ages of 15 to 29 who are sexually active should have annual urine tests for chlamydia. Chlamydia is common and can be symptom free. Other STIs can also be tested for. Ask your GP if you may be at risk.
6. It is recommended to talk to doctor while planning to become pregnant. Your GP will also discuss how regularly they will need to see you, dependant upon your situation.
7. Immunisations should be discussed annually with your GP. Options include the flu shot, pneumococcal, shingles, and tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis.
8. Women and people with a cervix who are aged 25 to 74 years are recommended to screen for cervical cancer every 5 years. Your GP can book an automated reminder.
9. Breast Screening is free every second year for women aged 50 to 74.
10. We recommend that men have a PSA test every 2 years from the age of 50 to 69 years. If there is a family history, we recommend starting testing from 45 years. As this test provides very early indicators, it is only recommended if your health is well enough to expect to live for at least another 7 years.
11. Blood tests check cholesterol levels and other measures to track heart and general health. We recommend getting tested every 5 years once you have turned 45. If you have a family history and are high risk, we recommend annual tests from the age of 40.
12. From the age of 50, discuss with your GP the need to have your bone density checked to check for osteoporosis.
13. Those older than 65 should have eyes tests annually by a professional such as an optometrist.
14. Your doctor may recommend testing for diabetes, dependant upon your risk factors. This should be discussed with your GP.
15. If you have a family history of bowel cancer, discuss your screening options with your GP. Those at high risk for bowel cancer may require a colonoscopy every 5 years.
16. Your doctor may suggest other tests dependant upon your family history, medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle choices.

At Brookwater Medical Centre, we’re committed to helping our patients maintain optimal health and wellbeing. Our experienced healthcare professionals can provide a wide range of regular health checks and other medical services to meet your individual needs. Contact us today to schedule your regular health check and take the first step towards better health.