75 is the new 50. Being 75 does not mean that you can’t live or enjoy life – so it is a good idea to try and prevent problems.
Some 75 years old may have no medical conditions and take no medication. Others may have various medical conditions that require active management, and some others may be struggling.
The goal of the 75+ health assessment is to prevent problems, or if there is a condition already present, to manage it well and reduce the risk of complications from it.
Who is eligible for this check?
All people aged 75 and older (who have a Medicare card) are eligible for this checkup once every year.
What does the health assessment involve?
The health assessment involves a review of your medical history, results, immunisations, screening, function, mood, and a physical checkup.
This is a thorough check-up, and will check if you:
- Are due for any immunisations, such as the shingles, pneumonia, flu, tetanus or covid vaccinations
- Are due for any blood tests, scans or referrals
- Are having trouble with any of your medication, day to day activities, or need any extra help at home
You will also have your blood pressure checked, and check anything else required for your health.
In most cases, you will spend 30-45 minutes with the nurse, and then 15-30 minutes with your doctor. This allows the nurse and your doctor to have a better understanding of you, and how you’re managing with everything in your life. As you can appreciate, some people have no concerns and no problems, and others may require some extra help in some areas. Sometimes it may become apparent that there is another issue causing problems, and this can be investigated and managed.
What happens after the health assessment?
After the assessment is complete, you will be offered a copy of the assessment, which includes the findings and recommendations. Further tests may be arranged and you will be given information or a plan regarding this. If you are due for immunisations, they may be able to be given on the day.
What will it cost?
Generally, health assessments are charged with a small or no gap fee following assignment of the Medicare rebate. Your doctor can advise further on their charges.
BRIEF EXAMPLE OF THE BENEFIT OF A 75+ HEALTH ASSESSMENT:
Ruth has just turned 75. Ruth is retired, and used to work as a teacher. Since retiring, Ruth tries to keep active, though does find it hard at times, especially as her ankle has been sore since she had a fall a few weeks ago. Ruth has kept up to date with her screening (cervical screening, breast screening etc) all her life, but does seem to have a high blood pressure whenever she goes to the doctor!
Her doctor has recommended she attend for a health assessment. At first, Ruth is hesitant – because she doesn’t think she falls into the 75 year old category!
Ruth decides to book in, and at this appointment she spends time with the nurse first. The nurse checks her medical history, and asks some questions about Ruth’s life and how she is managing at home. Ruth then sees the doctor to review and finalise her assessment.
- Ruth is advised that she is due for a covid booster, and that she is eligible for a pneumonia vaccination booster. Ruth doesn’t need a tetanus booster as she had this with her whooping cough vaccination when her granddaughter was born 2 years ago.
- Ruth’s blood pressure was found to be within the normal range. Her pulse rate was normal and her heart rhythm was normal. Ruth is relieved, as her friend had a funny heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation, and Ruth had been wanting to get checked for that
- Ruth’s fall was discussed – and a plan for Ruth to have an eye check made. If this is normal, Ruth will come back to discuss strength and balance training to reduce her risk
- Ruth is due for a bone density scan
Although Ruth was somewhat reluctant, she is pleased she attended, and has a plan in place to help her reduce her risk of falls and fractures, to keep her heart in optimal conditions and to make sure any other problems are identified.
In addition, Ruth feels this deeper assessment helped her relationship with her GP, as it addressed some of her health fears she hadn’t previously mentioned.