A health assessment is a planned, in-depth check of your overall health. At Mediclinic, a health assessment with a GP in Clayton South is a chance to step back and look at the bigger picture. It can help find health risks early and plan ways to stay well, rather than waiting until something goes wrong.
We believe regular visits are not only for when you are unwell. Prevention, such as screening and lifestyle advice, is a big part of good general practice.
Types of health assessment
Medicare supports health assessments for some groups of people. Eligibility rules apply and can change, so your GP or our reception team will check what you may be eligible for. Examples include:
Adults aged 45–49
For people in this age group who have a risk factor for developing a chronic disease. The check looks at lifestyle and health risks.
People aged 75 and over
A yearly assessment covering physical health, mental wellbeing, memory, mobility, home safety and support needs.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
A health assessment available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of all ages.
Other health assessments may be available for some people, such as those with an intellectual disability. If you are not eligible for a Medicare health assessment, you can still book a general health check with your GP.
What a health assessment GP in Clayton may check
Your health assessment is tailored to your age, history and needs. It may include:
- your medical and family history
- blood pressure, weight and waist measurement
- heart health and diabetes risk
- your medicines and vaccinations
- screening, such as cervical, bowel and breast screening
- skin checks
- lifestyle factors like diet, physical activity, smoking and alcohol
- mood, memory and wellbeing
- falls risk, mobility and home safety for older people
You may also be referred for blood tests. Australian Clinical Labs pathology collection is onsite, so this can often be done on the same day. See pathology.
Book a longer appointment
Tell reception you would like a health assessment. This helps us book the right amount of time.
Prepare
Bring your Medicare card, a list of your medicines, and any recent test results. Older people are welcome to bring a family member or carer.
Your assessment
Your GP, sometimes with help from our nursing team, works through your history and checks.
Make a plan
We talk about the results and agree on next steps. This may include follow-up tests, referrals or a chronic disease management plan.
Who can help
Our GPs provide health assessments. Dr Xue-Feng Hu has a special interest in preventative health and the health of older people. Nurse Practitioner Vara Perikala also offers general health checks and heart health assessments. See also our heart health page.
Fees
Mediclinic is a mixed-billing practice. Health assessments are one of the categories some of our practitioners may bulk bill, at their discretion. Please check with reception before your appointment. Fees may change, so see /fees/ or ask reception.
Am I eligible for a Medicare health assessment?
It depends on your age, background and health. Eligible groups include people aged 75 and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and some people aged 45–49 with risk factors. Ask reception or your GP to check.
How long does a health assessment take?
It is longer than a standard appointment. Let reception know it is a health assessment when you book so the right time is set aside.
Is a health assessment bulk billed?
Some of our practitioners may bulk bill health assessments at their discretion. Please check with reception before your visit.
Do I need to fast before my appointment?
Not usually for the assessment itself. If your GP orders blood tests that need fasting, they will tell you.
What happens after my health assessment?
Your GP will talk with you about the results and any next steps. This could include more tests, referrals, lifestyle support or a care plan.