Free NHS checks

When should you get checked?

The NHS says to get your blood pressure checked if:

• you’re aged 40 or over and haven’t had it checked for more than 5 years
• you think you might have high blood pressure or might be at risk

Some workplaces also offer checks.

Free checks at a pharmacy

Many pharmacies offer free blood pressure checks for people aged 40 or over who live in England. Some pharmacies may charge. You can find one using the NHS “Find a pharmacy that offers free blood pressure checks” search on nhs.uk.

The NHS pharmacy check service is for people who:

• are aged 40 or over
• don’t already have a diagnosis of high blood pressure
• haven’t had their blood pressure measured by a health professional in the last 5 years

Some people under 40 may be eligible, such as those with a family history of high blood pressure or at higher risk. If your reading is high, you may be offered a 24-hour monitor. If it’s very high, the pharmacy will refer you urgently to your GP. Your results are sent to your GP.

The NHS Health Check

The NHS Health Check is for people aged 40 to 74 who don’t already have certain conditions, such as heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation or a previous stroke.

• You should be invited by your GP or local council every 5 years.
• If you haven’t been invited, contact your GP practice. If your GP doesn’t offer it, contact your local council.
• It takes about 20 to 30 minutes and includes a blood pressure test.

The free pharmacy service described here is for England. Arrangements in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland may be different.