Health Check-ups in Point Cook

Conditions that stay quiet

High blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes rarely cause symptoms in their early stages, which is why they are so often found at a routine visit rather than because someone felt unwell. A check-up is also a good moment to raise questions you have been saving up.

What a health check in Point Cook may cover

The content depends on your age, history and risk factors. It might involve:

• medical, family and lifestyle history
• blood pressure, weight and waist measurements
• blood tests such as cholesterol and blood glucose
• a review of vaccinations and medicines
• a look at any skin spots you are concerned about
• sleep, stress and mood

Recommended screening by age

• Cervical screening every five years between the ages of 25 and 74, for anyone with a cervix.
• A free bowel screening test every two years for people aged 45 to 74, through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
• Free screening mammograms every two years through BreastScreen for women aged 50 to 74, with women aged 40 to 49 and over 74 also eligible.
• A yearly health assessment for people aged 75 and over.
• A yearly health check for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of any age.

Heart health checks

A heart health check estimates your chance of a heart attack or stroke over the next five years by combining blood pressure, cholesterol, age, smoking, diabetes and other factors. It is recommended for adults from age 45, and from age 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Type 2 diabetes risk

AUSDRISK is a short questionnaire that estimates your risk of developing type 2 diabetes over the next five years. It asks about age, family history, waist measurement, activity and diet, and a high score may lead to a blood test.

Lifestyle review

A check-up is a chance to talk honestly about smoking, alcohol, activity, diet and sleep. Small, specific changes, such as walking most days or cutting back on sugary drinks, are easier to keep up than a complete overhaul.

Getting ready

• note any symptoms or concerns
• list your medicines and supplements
• find out about any family history of heart disease, diabetes or cancer
• bring results from other providers

After the appointment

Next steps are agreed together, whether that is a lifestyle change, further tests, a referral or simply a date for the next review. People with ongoing conditions may be offered a care plan to coordinate treatment across different providers.

Symptoms should not wait

If something new or unusual appears between check-ups, such as unexplained weight loss, a lump, a change in bowel habits or a mole that looks different, book an appointment rather than waiting. For chest pain or difficulty breathing, call 000.

Common questions