The programme will work with employers in a bid to make access to health checks more convenient for staff. More than 7,400 workers in the North East could benefit from the checks funded through grants of £250,000 to four local councils. It is hoped they will help to tackle deadly diseases including kidney disease, diabetes and heart disease, and could save hundreds of lives.
More than 16m people in the UK are eligible for an NHS Health Check, but data shows about 40 per cent of those invited went on to complete one. The announcement comes as part of the new government’s commitment to boost economic growth by improving health. It says each check is equivalent to an NHS appointment and will save thousands of hours of valuable NHS time, helping to cut waiting lists.
It’s understood the checks will take place from September this year, to March 2025. Durham, Stockton, Northumberland and North Yorkshire councils are part of the pilot scheme. Andrew Gwynne, Public Health Minister, said: “We know so many deadly diseases can be avoided if we seek help in enough time.
That’s why we’re working to improve access to treatment while also taking steps to address the preventable causes of cardiovascular disease. “This innovative new programme is an important step towards community-focused healthcare and supporting economic productivity through improving health, shifting the focus from treatment to prevention, easing the strain on the NHS and helping people to live well for longe.