Published on: 12 January 2024
As 2024 begins, a local NHS Trust is encouraging people with a learning disability to get a free physical health check and start the new year in the best possible way.
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is urging people with a learning disability to take advantage of the annual physical health check, which they are entitled to as a result of their disability.
These checks, usually carried out by GPs, have been proven to be effective in diagnosing conditions amongst people with a learning disability that might otherwise have been missed.
Joined Up Care Derbyshire have created a video to explain all about the health checks on their website.
There are also easy-read documents that can be printed off or read on screen:
- What is an Annual Health Check
- What happens at an Annual Health Check
- Top tips for your Annual Health Check appointment
- How to book your Annual Health Check appointment.
If you care for someone with a learning disability who is 14 years or over, please have a chat with them and ask: have you had your health check in the last year?
There is also information for GPs about the annual health checks on the Derbyshire Healthcare website.
Arun Chidambaram, Medical Director at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, highlighted the importance of having an annual physical health check if you or someone you know has a learning disability.
He said: "Those with a learning disability are at greater risk of physical health challenges such as developing diabetes or heart disease. With the right support, these risks can be limited to ensure people go on to live longer healthier lives.
"It is hoped that with the support of GP practices and health professionals, we can better inform our patients, their carers and loved ones on how to access information on physical health.
"I encourage anyone who is eligible to contact their GP practice, who will be able to advise on booking a physical health check."
If you would like any more information about annual health checks for people with a learning disability, please contact Derbyshire Healthcare’s Learning Disabilities Strategic Health Facilitation team.
