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Why You Should Do an Annual Health Check

Why You Should Do an Annual Health Check

9th Jan 2026

Taking care of your health is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. An annual health check with your GP is an opportunity to prioritise your health, talk to your GP about any symptoms you may be experiencing and catch any potential health issues early.

Why You Should Do an Annual Health Check

Taking care of your health is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. An annual health check with your GP is an opportunity to prioritise your health, talk to your GP about any symptoms you may be experiencing and to catch any potential health issues early.

What Is an Annual Health Check?

An annual health check is a review of your overall health. Your GP may assess various aspects of your health and wellbeing, which can include a review of your medical history, a physical exam and requesting any necessary tests.

Who Should Have an Annual Health Check?

RACGP suggests to have check-ups every 1-2 years for healthy adults, however this varies by age and risk as more frequent visits may be required for specific screenings (like blood pressure, cholesterol, bowel, cancer) as you get older or have risk factors.

What are the benefits of an Annual Health Check?

Having an annual health check with your GP is one of the simplest ways to stay on top of your health—especially before problems become serious. Key benefits include:

1. Early detection of health issues

Many conditions (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, some cancers) can develop silently. Regular checks help identify risks early, when treatment is simpler and more effective.

2. Preventive care tailored to you

Your GP can assess your age, family history, lifestyle, and risk factors to:

  • Recommend appropriate screening tests
  • Update vaccinations
  • Provide personalised prevention advice

3. Managing risk factors before they escalate

Annual health checks help monitor:

  • Blood pressure
  • Weight and BMI
  • Cholesterol and blood sugar levels

This allows small changes now to prevent bigger health problems later.

4. A complete picture of your health

Seeing the same GP regularly builds continuity of care. Your GP understands your medical history and can spot subtle changes over time that might otherwise be missed.

5. Mental health check-in

RACGP reccomends Health checks aren’t just physical. They provide a safe opportunity to discuss stress, sleep, mood, burnout, or anxiety - issues that often go unspoken.

6. Support for healthier lifestyle choices

Your GP can help with:

  • Nutrition and weight management
  • Smoking or vaping cessation
  • Alcohol reduction
  • Sleep optimisation
  • Offering practical, realistic advice
  • GP referral to allied health services, available onsite at Our Medical e.g. physiotherapist, pycholoist, dietitian and more.

7. Peace of mind

Knowing where you stand health-wise helps you feel more confident and in control of your wellbeing.

Get Your Annual Health Check

At Our Medical, our 100% Bulk Billing GPs are available 365 days.

No appointment is needed – simply come into the centre and check-in to see the next available GP, or GP of your choice, using the ‘Our Medical’ app.

Don't wait until you feel sick to see your doctor. Regular checkups ensure that you stay on top of your health.