If you’re thinking about booking a health check, you might be wondering whether there are NHS checks available to you, and you may be exploring private options. What’s actually included in each? How are they different? And is one better than the other?
In this post, we break down the key differences between NHS and private health checks so you can make the choice that’s right for you.
What Is a Health Check?
A health check (sometimes called a health screen, health assessment or full body MOT) is a general check up to see how your body is doing. Health screenings are designed to spot early signs of health problems and help you stay on top of your wellbeing, even if you don’t have any symptoms.
What Does the NHS Health Check Include?
The NHS offers a free health check for people aged 40 to 74, once every five years. It usually happens at your local GP surgery or a nearby clinic.
What’s included:
- Blood pressure check
- Blood test to check cholesterol
- Diabetes risk check (based on blood sugar)
- Weight and BMI measurement
- Lifestyle questions (about smoking, exercise, diet)
- Advice on how to reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes
It’s a great basic check up but only available if you’re in the right age range, don’t already have certain health conditions. Wait times for an appointment might take some time, the appointment is only 20-30 minutes and you can only do the test once every 5 years.
Learn more on the NHS website.
What Do Private Health Checks Include?
Private health assessments are available to anyone, at any age. You can book one whenever you like, and choose a package that fits your needs and budget.
Private full body MOTs can include:
- All the basics: blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol
- Full blood panels: liver, kidney, thyroid, diabetes, vitamins, hormones
- Heart checks: ECG, blood pressure monitoring
- Lung function tests (spirometry)
- Scans: ultrasound, full-body MRI (in premium packages)
- Cancer markers (PSA, CA125, etc.)
- GP or nurse consultation and follow up advice
You can choose a general check up or something more detailed, like a hormone screen, sports health/fitness assessment, or cancer risk review. There are also tests available specifically for men and women.
One of the key differences between a NHS health check and a private health check will be the amount of time you get to spend with a doctor. A NHS health check is usually a 20-30 minute appointment. A private health check will usually be at least an hour, but often more for more premium packages. This gives you much more time for consultation with a doctor to discuss your health in more detail. You might even see multiple medical professionals or specialists in certain areas rather than just a GP.
Key Differences at a Glance
Here’s a quick side by side comparison of NHS health checks vs private health checks.
| Feature | NHS Health Check | Private Health Check |
|---|---|---|
| Age range | 40–74 | Any age |
| Frequency | Every 5 years | You decide (annually recommended over 40) |
| Cost | Free | Paid (varies by package) |
| Speed | May have long waits | Quick appointments and results |
| Appointment length | 20-30 minutes | Usually 1 hour or more |
| Personalisation | Standardised for all | Customised to your needs |
| Extra tests (e.g. vitamins) | Not included | Often included |
| Scans/Imaging | Rarely included | Often available in higher package |
Who Might Choose NHS vs Private?
- NHS health check: great if you’re eligible (aged 40–74) and want a basic, free health MOT
- Private health screen: ideal if you
- Want a faster appointment
- Want results faster
- Are under 40 but still want a check up
- Have specific health concerns (e.g. fatigue, hormone issues)
- Want more detailed blood tests or scans
- Are focused on prevention, not just treatment
Can You Do Both?
Yes! Many people use private health screens to fill in the gaps between NHS care. You can:
- Share your private test results with your NHS GP
- Use a private screen as an annual check between NHS appointments that are only available every 5 years
- Get a second opinion if something feels missed
Private care and NHS care can work together to give you a more complete picture of your health.
Read more
You may find some of other content helpful:
How frequently do I need a health check up?
What can a full body health screen detect?
10 reasons you might book a private health screen
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