7 health checks you can book online today
Book your appointments without leaving the house
The old adage ‘ignorance is bliss’ is all well and good, especially when it comes to finding out how many germs are on your toothbrush or how many spiders are crawling on you while you sleep.
But, when it comes to your health, ignorance is anything but bliss and health checks are a great way to stay in tune with your body and detect early signs of any serious issues.
We’ve put together seven health checks – that not only could help keep you at your healthiest, but can also all be booked online (yep, no need to leave the couch).
Cervical Screening Test
Did you know that the traditional pap smear has been replaced by a new cervical screening test. The process of this test is very similar to the pap test, but it’s more accurate. Instead of detecting cell changes in the cervix, the new test detects HPV which is what will lead to these cell changes. Ladies, make time for this test to ensure you’re on top of anything serious going on down there.
What kind of doctor performs a pap test?
A GP (General Practitioner) or your local health centre.
Who should get one?
Women who have been sexually active.
How Often?
A pap smear was recommended every 2 years; however, the new screening test is only required every 5 years.
Diabetes Check
According to Diabetes Australia, type 2 diabetes can be avoided in 58% of cases within the high-risk population. Understanding how things like weight, ethnicity or other related illnesses have an influence on your risk factor for type 2 diabetes is important to understand whether to get tested. Take the diabetes risk calculator here if you’re unsure of your risk category.
What kind of doctor performs a diabetes test?
A GP will provide you with a referral for a blood test.
Who should get one?
Anyone in the high-risk population or anyone showing symptoms.
How Often?
If symptoms are noticed or every 3 years. If you’re in the high-risk population, more frequently.
Melanoma or Skin Checks
Did you know that Australia and New Zealand have the world’s highest incidence rate for melanomas? It’s important to check your skin for new spots or noticeable changes in freckles or moles. Along with a polished slip, slop, slap routine, identifying these changes early through regular skin checks can save your life.
What kind of doctor performs a skin check?
A GP or dermatologist
Who should get one?
Everyone
How Often?
Self-check regularly; if changes are spotted visit one of the above health professionals.
Breast Cancer Check
Also referred to as a ‘mammogram’, breast screening can identify even the tiniest of cancers, giving you the best chance at treating it, moving on and living a normal life. According to the Cancer Council, regular mammograms can reduce breast cancer death risk by 25% in the 50-69 age group. Trust us ladies; if you’re over 40 or see any changes in your breast then this is one to schedule in.
What kind of health professional performs a breast cancer check?
A specialist at one of Australia’s 500+ screening locations.
Who should get one?
Women, especially those over 50
How Often?
Every two years, or if symptoms are noticed.
Bone Density Scan
Osteoporosis, or ‘brittle bones’, often goes unnoticed until a break or fracture occurs because symptoms may be slow and not recognised. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, an estimated 924,000 Australians have osteoporosis, representing 3.8% of the population. If you have reason to think you fall into that group, it might be time to chat with your GP and get a bone density test.
What kind of health professional performs a bone density scan?
Any GP can provide a referral for a radiologist.
Who should get one?
Anyone over 50; however, it’s more common in women so an earlier test can be requested if needed.
How Often?
If any symptoms are showing or if there is a family history of brittle bones.
To contact a health professional, download the MyWhitecoat app, available on Andriod or iOS and make an appointment today. Visit the Whitecoat website for more.
Eye Check
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!).
What kind of health professional performs an eye check?
An optometrist or ophthalmologist. You can visit nib First Choice Optical to help you to search for local optometrists; it's our community of specially selected health providers, who have promised they will deliver quality care and value for money.
Who should get one?
Anyone over 40, especially if you have a family history of eye disease.
How Often?
Every two years
Oral Health Check Ups
Hate visiting the dentist? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. However, regular dental check-ups can save you from needing serious dental work in the future, so it’s definitely worth your while.
What kind of health professional performs an oral check-up?
The dentist – and if your nib policy covers dental, you can visit an nib Dental Care Centre and receive 100% back on dental check-ups1.
Who should get one?
Everyone
How often?
Every six months
Take advantage of our First Choice Network
Want to make sure you’re not paying more than you have to for your dentist and optometrist appointments? The nib First Choice network should be your first port of call to keep your out-of-pocket expenses low. It’s our community of specially-selected health providers who have agreed to provide nib members with quality healthcare and great customer service at an affordable price.
You can choose to see the dentist or optical provider of your choice, but by choosing an nib First Choice provider, it simply means you could pay less. Search the nib First Choice network now to find a provider.
1Subject to waiting periods, annual limits and other conditions
The health checks and information contained in this article are provided as general information only, and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnoses or treatment. For personalised medical advice, always see your qualified health professional.
Fact checked by Myhealth and LifeCare Dental
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