Annual health checks for people with learning disabilities: What you need to know
People with learning disabilities often face significant health disparities, including higher rates of physical and mental health issues and a reduced life expectancy compared to the general population. Annual health checks are a vital tool in addressing these disparities, ensuring early detection and management of health conditions.
What is an annual health check?
An annual health check is a free service offered by the NHS to individuals aged 14 and over who are on their GP's learning disability register. These checks are designed to identify undiagnosed health conditions, review existing treatments, and promote overall well-being. During the appointment, healthcare professionals may:
- Conduct physical examinations, including measuring weight, heart rate, and blood pressure.
- Request urine or blood samples for further analysis.
- Discuss common health concerns such as epilepsy, constipation, swallowing difficulties, vision, and hearing issues.
- Review current medications to ensure their effectiveness and necessity.
- Confirm that vaccinations are up to date.
- Provide guidance on healthy living and preventive care.
These checks also offer an opportunity to discuss any support needs for families and carers and to plan for transitions, such as moving from child to adult services.
Who is eligible?
Anyone aged 14 or over who has a learning disability and is on their GP’s learning disability register is entitled to an annual health check.
Not sure if you're on the register? You can ask your GP practice to check, and if needed, ask to be added.
How to book one
If you or someone you care for has a learning disability:
- Check registration: Ensure that you or the person you care for is registered on your GP's learning disability register.
- Schedule the check: Contact your GP practice to arrange the annual health check.
- Prepare for the appointment: List any health concerns, current medications, and questions you may have to make the most of the appointment.
How to prepare for the appointment
To make the most of the appointment, it helps to prepare:
- Write down any questions or concerns
- Bring a list of current medications
- Note anything that’s changed recently (like sleep, appetite, mood)
- Mention any help needed with things like communication, mobility or daily tasks
- Carers can also bring notes or observations
You can also use easy-read checklists or preparation guides. Ask your GP or visit the NHS learning disability health check page for resources.
Find out more about the annual health checks in this easy read leaflet from Mencap:
Why these checks matter
People with learning disabilities often face more health problems and may struggle to access the care they need. These checks are a key way to spot issues early and make sure care is person-centred.
They can:
- Pick up hidden conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes
- Help manage existing conditions more effectively
- Improve life expectancy and quality of life
- Help the person feel more in control of their health
How are we doing in North Yorkshire?
In the Humber and North Yorkshire region, there has been notable progress in the uptake of annual health checks. Data from 2022–2023 indicates that over 80% of individuals aged 14 and over with a learning disability received an annual health check, surpassing the NHS Long Term Plan's target of 75% . This marks a significant improvement from the previous year's rate of 71%.
However, it's important to note that within North Yorkshire specifically, the uptake rate was 51% in 2023–2024, a decrease from 64% in 2022–2023. This highlights the need for continued efforts to ensure more individuals benefit from these essential health checks.
Support for carers
Carers often play a vital role in helping people prepare for and attend health checks. If you’re a carer, you can:
- Support the person in understanding what the appointment is for
- Help with transport or reminders
- Share useful information with the GP
- Ask questions on behalf of the person if they struggle with communication
If you need support as a carer, you can contact your local carers' centre or visit Carers UK for advice.
Where to go for help
- Contact your GP to ask about annual health checks and the learning disability register.
- Need help or have feedback? Contact Healthwatch North Yorkshire for free, confidential advice.
By encouraging more people to take up this simple annual check, we can help close the health gap and ensure people with learning disabilities in North Yorkshire live longer, healthier lives—with the support they need.
