What to expect from your annual physical health check
Supporting the physical and mental health of people living with serious mental illness.
If you are aged 18+ and have a severe mental illness it is recommended that you attend an annual health check.
Why am I being invited?
The annual physical health check is for people who have been diagnosed with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) however, you may also be invited if you were diagnosed in the past.
Why is it important to attend?
We know that living with a SMI means you may be more likely to develop health conditions such as diabetes, stroke or heart problems.
Each element within the free health check helps to detect any of these issues as early as possible.
It also makes sure you are healthy while taking prescribed medicine and lets you get support that’s right for you.
Who will do my health check?
It will be carried out by a qualified physical health support worker, GP or community mental health team and should take between 20 to 45 minutes, allowing you more time than a standard GP appointment.
What happens at your health check
Can a family member/friend or carer come with me to the appointment?
Yes, they will be able to come with you to the appointment.
Can I have my health check at home?
If you are housebound or have difficulty leaving home, it may be possible to have your health check at home. Please contact your physical health support worker, GP or community mental health team to arrange.
What happens after my physical health check?
If any issues are identified from your blood tests results, then your GP will be in contact with you to discuss. Your physical health support worker, GP or community mental health team can help you access any follow-up lifestyle support such as exercise schemes, weight management and dietary advice, and support to stop smoking or to drink less alcohol.
I feel healthy, do I still need to attend?
Even if you are currently feeling fit and well the health check is an opportunity for you to feel reassured about your health and lifestyle.
If you choose not to attend, you may be contacted at a later date to discuss if there’s anything that will help support you to access a health check in the future.
I’m still unsure and need support to help me attend
Your physical health support worker, GP or community mental health team can discuss with you reasonable adjustments to make you feel more comfortable to attend your health check.
Also, support from community partners is available for you to access. Contact your physical health support worker, GP or community mental health team for more information.
I’m ready to attend, what now?
You should receive an invitation to book an appointment for your health check. This might be a text, letter, phone call or email from your physical health support worker, GP or community mental health team.
We would encourage you to take up the opportunity to attend your appointment but please do not worry if you have missed your appointment or cannot attend. We understand these situations happen.
Please get in touch with the relevant team to arrange a new appointment.
