7 health checks you can book online today
The saying ‘ignorance is bliss’ can be well and good in some circumstances, like knowing how many germs are on your toothbrush. But when it comes to your overall health and wellbeing, ignorance is anything but bliss. Regular health checks are a great way to catch any signs of health issues early on, so you can get the right treatment before they progress. We’ve put together seven health checks that could help you stay at your healthiest – all of which you can book online (no need to leave the couch!).
1. Cervical screening test
Cervical screening tests detect HPV, which is what causes the cells in your cervix to change. You can now do the test on your own by using a high vaginal swab instead of a cervical swab. However, if you're dealing with abnormal bleeding, your doctor should collect the sample.
Where can you get a cervical screening test?
At your GP
A community health centre
A women’s health centre, family planning centre or sexual health clinic
A gynaecologist or other specialist
An Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) or Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service.
What happens during a cervical screening test?
The doctor or nurse will ask you to undress below the waist and lie on your back with your knees apart. Don't worry, you'll have a cover-up sheet for comfort and you can always ask for one if needed. The doctor or nurse will gently use a speculum to open your vagina. This helps them collect a small sample from your cervix with a swab. It might feel a bit strange, but it shouldn't be painful. If it is, let your doctor or nurse know right away. You can also discuss the option of self-collection with your doctor or nurse. They'll guide you on the process and you can choose to collect the sample in private or with their help. Self-collection is when you insert a swab into your vagina and rotate it for 10 to 30 seconds. It might feel a bit uncomfortable, but it shouldn't hurt.
Who should get a cervical screening test?
If you have a cervix and have been sexually active, you should get a cervical screening test.
How often should you get a cervical screening test?
You should get a cervical screening test every five years unless directed by your doctor. You can link your MyGov account with the National Cancer Screening Register to get a reminder when you’re due for your cervical screening.
2. Diabetes check
Diabetes Australia reports that type 2 diabetes can be prevented in up to 58% of high-risk cases. Understanding your risk category can help you decide if you should get tested for diabetes or not. The Diabetes Australia risk calculator is a great starting point. It'll ask about your lifestyle and background and give your risk profile in under five minutes.
Where can you get a diabetes test?
A GP will give you a referral for a blood test.
What happens during a diabetes test?
Testing for diabetes involves a blood glucose test. A nurse will take a blood sample and send it to a lab for analysis. There are different types of blood tests. Sometimes you might need to fast overnight. And for others you can just show up.
Who should get a diabetes test?
Anyone in the high-risk population or anyone showing symptoms. You might be at risk of type 2 diabetes if you:
Are over 55 years of age
Are over 45 years and have high blood pressure and/or are living with overweight or obesity
Have a family member with type 2 diabetes
Are from an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander background
Were born in Asia
Are not physically active.
How often should you get a diabetes check?
You can get a check every three years or if you notice symptoms including:
Feeling very thirsty or hungry
Urinating more than usual
Feeling tired or fatigued
Losing weight or gradually gaining weight
Having cuts or wounds that heal slowly
Experiencing blurry vision.
If you’re high-risk, more often.
3. Melanoma or skin checks
Did you know that Australia has the world’s highest rate for melanomas? Check your skin regularly for new spots or changes in freckles or moles. Combined with a good ‘slip, slop, slap, seek’ routine, regular skin checks can be life-saving. Want to find out your risk of skin cancer? Take the personalised nib skin self-assessment. In under three minutes, you can learn about your skin cancer risk and how to reduce the likelihood of developing skin cancer.
Where can you get a skin check?
A GP or dermatologist.
What happens during a skin check?
During a skin check, the doctor will ask you to take off your clothes (you keep your undergarments on). They will then ask you to lie down or sit on the examination table. They will use a tool called DermLite Lumio that magnifies and illuminates your skin for an examination. If any spots need closer inspection, they may use a dermatoscope for a detailed view.
Your doctor or dermatologist will discuss any suspicious findings with you. They might recommend a biopsy (removing a small part for examination) or excision (complete removal) if they think you need it. For less suspicious spots, your doctor might suggest just keeping an eye on it.
Who should get a skin check?
Everyone.
How often should you get a skin check?
Self-check regularly. If you spot any changes then visit your GP or a dermatologist. Want to find a local dermatologist now? Use our provider finder tool to find a skin specialist.
4. Breast cancer screening
A breast screening (also called a mammogram) can identify even the tiniest of cancers. This can give you the best chance at treating it, moving on and living your life. According to the Cancer Council, regular mammograms can reduce breast cancer death risk by 25% in the 50 to 69 age group.
Women over 40 should be diligent when looking for any changes in breast feel or shape, but men should also take it seriously. About one in 500 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, which is around 200 men every year.
Where can you get a breast screening?
At your local BreastScreen Australia clinic. You can find a clinic and book your free examination online.
What happens during a mammogram?
Each breast is gently pressed between two x-ray plates to allow for clear pictures. It's a quick process that usually lasts about 20 seconds. The healthcare specialist will check both breasts, taking two x-ray pictures of each.
Who should get a mammogram?
Cisgender females should have a breast screening every two years from the age of 50.
If you've used gender-affirming hormones for at least five years, it’s recommended you book a breast screening every two years from the age of 50 to 74.
If you've had gender-affirming chest surgery, talk to your doctor about your breast cancer risk. But if you experienced symptoms of breast cancer at any time, speak with your GP as soon as you can.
How often should I get a mammogram?
Every two years, or sooner if you notice symptoms like:
A lump in your breast.
A change in the size, shape or appearance of your breast.
Your nipples changing in appearance, such as becoming red or inverted.
Discomfort in your underarm or swelling in that area.
5. Bone density scan
Osteoporosis can sneak up on you – often you don’t notice anything until a bone breaks. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that an estimated 924,000 Australians have osteoporosis. If you think you fall into that group, it might be time to chat with your GP and get a bone density test.
Where can you get a bone density scan?
Your GP can provide a referral for a radiologist.
What happens during a bone density scan?
The scan takes around 10 to 15 minutes. The radiologist will ask you to lie down on a comfortable table, stay clothed and let the machine scan your hip and spine. Your results will be sent to your doctor.
Who should get a bone density scan?
Anyone over 50. But it’s more common in women, so you can request an earlier test if you need.
How often should you get a bone density scan?
Every one to two years if you have osteoporosis or as advised by your doctor.
6. Eye test
Not only can testing your eyes help prevent diseases leading to blindness, but it can also make sure you're seeing the world as clearly as possible (so no more squinting to read the fine print!).
Where do you get your eyes tested?
At an optometrist or ophthalmologist. You can visit nib First Choice Optical to search for a local optometrist who can deliver quality care and value for money.1
What happens during an eye test?
During your eye test, your optometrist will ask about your health and family history. They’ll do different eye tests to check your vision, like shining a light into your eyes to see how your pupils react to light.
Who should get an eye test?
Everyone should have regular eye tests. But if you’ve experienced a change in your vision, are over 40 or have a family history of eye disease you might need more frequent eye tests.
How often should I get my eyes checked?
Every two years.
7. Oral health and dental check-ups
Hate visiting the dentist? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Around three in 10 Australians avoid the dentist. But regular check-ups can prevent dental issues, so it’s worth your while to get your pearly whites checked.
Where do you get a dental check-up?
At the dentist. Got dental cover with your Extras? You can visit a participating dental professional in the nib First Choice network and get 100% back on no gap preventative dental check-ups.2
What happens during a dental check-up?
A dental check-up might involve checking for tooth decay, bleeding gums and assessing your bite. Your dentist might offer fluoride treatment and polishing too. You'll also get helpful advice on how to brush and floss to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Who should get a dental check-up?
Everyone.
How often should I go to the dentist?
Every six months. You can ask your dentist to send six-month reminders to keep you on track.
Take advantage of our First Choice Network for your next check-up
Don’t pay more than you have to for your specialist appointments. Use the nib First Choice network to keep your out of pocket expenses low. It’s our community of health providers who will give you quality care at an affordable price.
You can choose to see the healthcare provider of your choice, but by choosing an nib First Choice provider, it simply means you could pay less.1
And before you book in your next check-up, you can get a free nib HealthCheck. This survey will give you personalised insights to help you understand how to manage your health and what checkups you might need to book.
The information throughout this article serves as broad information and should not replace any advice you have been given by your medical practitioner.
¹nib First Choice providers offer competitive fees for many commonly claimed treatments and consultations. These fees are reviewed at least annually and are subject to change. Always check nib.com.au/find-a-provider or the nib App before booking to see if your provider participates or simply ask your provider if they are part of nib’s network at the time of booking. Providers occasionally leave the nib First Choice network so it’s important to check before booking to avoid disappointment. Annual limits, waiting periods & T&Cs apply.
²Payment by nib of dental benefits is subject to serving relevant waiting periods, annual limits and service limits. Check your cover by visiting your member account or call 13 16 42. The dental check-up covers an examination or consultation (011 to 015), diagnostics (022, 037) scale and clean (114, 115) or removal of plaque (111), fluoride treatment (121) as deemed necessary and appropriate in the clinical opinion of the dentist (dentures not included). The services provided will be deducted from your annual limits and/or service limits. The No Gap offer is not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or government scheme, nor substitutable or redeemable for cash and is only available with dentists who have a No Gap First Choice network provider agreement with nib.