People with a learning disability encouraged to book annual health checks
It is important that everyone over the age of 14 who is on their doctor's learning disability register has an annual health check.
An annual health check can help you stay well by talking to a doctor or nurse about your health and finding any problems early, so they can be sorted out.
You do not have to be ill to have a health check – in fact, most people have their annual health check when they are feeling well.
Annual Health Checks for people with a learning disability can improve their quality of life through earlier diagnosis and help reduce unplanned hospital admissions.
They give people dedicated time with their practice to talk about their health, pick up any early signs of concern, and agree the right support before things become more serious.
This is particularly important for those who are 14 to 25 as we know this group don’t make use of these as often. Missing a check at this stage can mean important health needs are not picked up early.
Dr Amy Dissanayake
GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer for NHS Surrey and Sussex
