A health assessment is a structured review of your overall health — conducted by your GP to identify risk factors, detect early disease and create a personalised plan to improve your long-term wellbeing. For eligible patients, specific health assessments are fully funded by Medicare — meaning no out-of-pocket cost.
The 45–49 Year Health Assessment
The Medicare 45–49 Health Assessment (item 717) is available to adults aged 45–49 who are at risk of developing a chronic condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease. It is one of the most valuable preventive health tools available and yet remains significantly under-utilised.
The assessment covers:
- Comprehensive health history review
- Blood pressure and cardiovascular risk assessment
- Blood glucose and cholesterol testing
- BMI and waist circumference measurement
- Mental health and wellbeing screening
- Lifestyle review: physical activity, diet, smoking, alcohol
- Cancer screening discussion (bowel, breast, cervical, skin)
- Personalised written health summary and action plan
The 75+ Healthy Ageing Assessment
For patients aged 75 and over, a comprehensive Healthy Ageing Assessment (item 703) covers additional areas specific to older patients including functional capacity, falls risk, cognitive screening, medication review, continence, social circumstances and planning for future care needs. This assessment is also fully funded by Medicare.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Checks
Annual health assessments are available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of all ages (item 715) to address the significant health disparities experienced by First Nations Australians. These assessments are fully funded by Medicare and focus on the conditions of highest burden in this community.
What Happens After My Health Assessment?
At the end of your assessment, your GP provides a written summary of findings and a personalised action plan. This may include referrals to allied health providers (physiotherapist, dietitian, podiatrist, psychologist) through a GP Team Care Arrangement — providing up to 5 Medicare-rebated allied health visits per year.
How Do I Know If I’m Eligible?
Eligibility for the 45–49 Health Assessment requires your GP to assess you as being at risk of developing a chronic condition. In practice, most adults in this age group with one or more risk factors will qualify. Please book a consultation at Peninsula MDC Mornington and your GP will confirm your eligibility at the time.