Learning Disabilities

Every year, people with learning disabilities aged over 14 years are entitled to a free annual health check from their GP. This is an important opportunity to identify any health issues early on and ensure that individuals with learning disabilities receive appropriate care and support.
What is a Learning Disability Annual Health Check?

A learning disability annual health check is a thorough assessment of an individual's physical and mental health. It is designed to help identify any issues that may require further investigation or treatment. The check includes:

  • - A review of the individual's medical history
  • - An examination of their physical health, including measurements such as height, weight, blood pressure, and heart rate
  • - A discussion about any current symptoms or concerns
  • - An assessment of mental health and wellbeing
  • - A review of any medication the individual is taking

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Learning Disability Reviews and Health Checks

Learning Disability Annual Health Checks

People with a learning disability often have poorer physical and mental health than other people. This does not need to be the case.

It is important that everyone over the age of 14 who is on their doctor's learning disability register has an annual health check.

An annual health check can help you stay well by talking to a doctor or nurse about your health and finding any problems early, so they can be sorted out.

You do not have to be ill to have a health check – in fact, most people have their annual health check when they are feeling well.

If you are worried about seeing a doctor, or there is anything they can do to make your appointment better, let the doctor or nurse know.

Click Here to find out more.

In this video, Harshi, her mum Khilna and their GP explain why it is important for people with a learning disability to have an annual health check and to follow a health action plan.

Find out more about what is involved in a annual health check and how to book by clicking here.

Here you can find an easy read guide for Learning Disability annual health checks to help with explaining the process and what's involved in a Learning Disability health check.

For more information, or to book an annual health check, please contact your GP practice.

Other Learning Disability Screening

Bowel Screening

All men and women aged over 65 are invited for bowel screening.  Click on the link below for more information:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/bowel-cancer-screening-easy-guide

Breast Screening

All women aged over 50 are invited for breast screening.  Click on the links below for more information:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/breast-screening-information-for-women-with-learning-disabilities

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZNDHTSQfUk

Cervical Screening (Smear test)

All women aged between 25 - 64 are invited for cervical screening (smear test).  Click on the links below for more information:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cervical-screening-easy-read-guide

https://www.jostrust.org.uk/information/cervical-screening/cervical-screening-learning-disability 

Flu Vaccination

All patients with learning difficulties are also eligible for a annual flu vaccination. The Flu campaign normally runs between September to March. Please contact the practice regarding an appointment with the Nurse.

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