Coughing up for lifesaver Mots
FULL body Mots can spot the signs of a killer – and offer peace of mind.
And while the NHS offers health checks for free to anyone aged 40 to 74, you only get an invite from a GP every five years.
These tests were introduced in 2009 to see if you are at risk of heart problems, stroke, diabetes and kidney problems.
Blood pressure, weight and cholesterol are all checked.
But if you do not want to wait – and something is playing on your mind – then a private health check could be the answer. But is it worth the cash?
Dr Belinda Griffiths, from The Fleet Street Clinic, said: “Everyone benefits from a health MOT and the benefits increase as you get older. Like older cars usually need more attention.”
GP Dr Fay Wilson said: “A better option is to visit an NHS walk-in centre. There are more than 50 around the country and you do not need an appointment. The doctors there give lifestyle advice. If people want reassurance I advise them to ring NHS 111. They can tell you if you need to be screened.” Here we highlight the top private tests.
Bluecrest Health Screening, £99 to £269
The basic prevention-plus package comes in at under £100 and includes blood pressure tests for heart disease. It also checks your risk of liver and kidney problems and diabetes.
At the top end you can get an early cancer risk review for £269. It includes checks for prostate, pancreas, ovary, bowel, liver and lung cancer.
BMI Healthcare, £177 to £698
BMI kicks things off with an essential review for £177.
For this you can expect an analysis of your diet, fitness levels and lifestyle.
Its advanced-plus screening costs a heftier £698 and you get a detailed medical report following blood tests, a nurse consultation and physical examination by a doctor, where you can discuss your concerns.
Medichecks £49 to £149
You can test yourself from home with this one, and get to know yourself inside out. Tests can then be posted for analysis, without meeting a nurse or doctor.
They start with a baseline blood test for £49, which checks your cholesterol level, liver and kidney functions. You can visit a clinic to give a sample, or a nurse can visit your house to take one. An Ultravit service costs £149 and includes blood cell counts, cancer tests and hormone checks.
Bupa, £176 to £821
There is quite a difference in prices at Bupa, starting with its core service at £176, up to its peak one at £821. You fill in an online questionnaire too.
The comprehensive check is two and a half hours with cancer tests and examination.
Nuffield Health, £259 to £727
This is at the pricier end of checks, with the basic lifestyle one-hour test at £259. It includes body measurements, blood pressure and urine tests with health advice.
The big one is the 360+, which will set you back an eyewatering £727.
It features a full doctor analysis of blood, analysis of stools and a cervical smear for women.