Heart Health Checks: Know Your Risk, Protect Your Future

Heart disease is one of Australia's leading causes of illness and death, yet many people don't realise they're at risk because the warning signs aren't always obvious. Conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol can develop without symptoms, making regular heart health checks an important part of staying well.

A Heart Health Check is a Medicare health assessment that helps identify your risk of developing cardiovascular disease before symptoms appear. Understanding your risk early gives you and the doctor the opportunity to take steps to protect your heart and reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

What is a Heart Health Check?

A Heart Health Check is available for Medicare-eligible patients aged 30 years and over who would benefit from an assessment of their heart health.

During the appointment, the doctor will assess your cardiovascular risk and develop a personalised plan to help you maintain a healthy heart. The assessment focuses on prevention, helping identify risk factors early so they can be managed before they become more serious.

What happens during a Heart Health Check?

Your Heart Health Check includes:

• Reviewing your medical history and family history
• Discussing lifestyle factors that may affect your heart health
• Measuring your blood pressure
• Reviewing or arranging cholesterol testing
• Assessing your overall cardiovascular disease risk
• Developing a personalised management plan
• Providing advice on maintaining a healthy heart
• Arranging referrals or further investigations if needed

Following the assessment, the doctor will explain your results and discuss practical ways to reduce your risk, which may include lifestyle changes, ongoing monitoring or medication where appropriate.

Why is a Heart Health Check important?

Many of the biggest risk factors for heart disease don't cause noticeable symptoms. You may feel perfectly healthy while conditions such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol quietly increase your risk.

A Heart Health Check helps identify these risks early, allowing you and the doctor to make informed decisions about your health before serious problems develop.

Prevention is one of the most effective ways to protect your long-term health, and knowing your cardiovascular risk is an important first step.

How often can I have a Heart Health Check?

If you're eligible, Medicare allows one Heart Health Check every 12 months. Regular assessments help monitor your heart health over time and ensure your management plan remains appropriate as your health needs change.

Cost and eligibility

Heart Health Checks are available under Medicare Item 699 for Medicare-eligible patients aged 30 years and over who would benefit from a heart health assessment.

Please speak with our reception team about your eligibility and any fees that may apply.

Book your Heart Health Check at Family Health Care Mackay Rural View

Looking after your heart is one of the most important things you can do for your long-term health.

If you would like to know more about your heart health, speak with our friendly reception team.

To book your Heart Health Check, please call Family Health Care Mackay Rural View on (07) 4954 8866.