New Year, New You – Why Your Annual Health Check Matters

The start of a new year is a natural time to pause, reflect, and reset. Many people set goals to move more, eat well, and find better balance in their lives. One simple step that quietly supports all of these goals is often overlooked — booking an annual health check.

For individuals and families living in the Sutherland Shire, an annual health check is a practical way to stay on top of health in the midst of busy work, family, and community life. At Family Medical Practices, these checks are seen as an essential part of Preventative Health Checks—not just for when you feel unwell, but to provide clarity about where your health stands right now.

Many common conditions managed in general practice, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and early changes in blood sugar, can develop gradually without obvious symptoms. Regular check-ins with your GP help detect these early, when lifestyle changes or simple treatments are often most effective.

Why an Annual Health Check Matters

An annual health check gives you the opportunity to be proactive rather than reactive. It creates space to review your overall health, ask questions, and address small concerns before they become bigger issues.

Even if you feel well, a yearly review helps:

• Establish a clear baseline for your health
• Monitor changes over time
• Reduce the risk of preventable illness
• Support long-term wellbeing

This approach aligns with best-practice preventive care and supports people across the Shire to stay informed and confident about their health.

What Is an Annual Health Check?

An annual health check is a structured, personalised review of your physical and mental health. Your GP takes the time to understand your medical history, family background, lifestyle, and what matters most to you.

Depending on your age, health needs, and risk factors, your appointment may include:

• Blood pressure and heart health assessment
• Blood tests for cholesterol, blood sugar, iron levels, and other markers
• Review of weight or body composition, where relevant
• Discussion about diet, physical activity, sleep, and stress
• Mental health and emotional wellbeing check-in
• Review of medications and supplements
• Preventive care reminders, such as skin checks or recommended screening

There is no one-size-fits-all checklist. Each health check is tailored to you.

Why Start the Year With a Health Check?

The beginning of the year is an ideal time to check in on your health because it helps answer one simple question:
“Where am I starting from?”

With a clearer understanding of your baseline health, your GP can help you set realistic, achievable goals for the months ahead. This might include improving energy levels, supporting heart health, managing stress, or keeping an eye on an existing condition.

Many people are surprised to learn that early changes can be picked up during routine checks, even when they feel well. Identifying these early allows for calm, sustainable adjustments rather than urgent intervention later.

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More Than Tests: A Conversation With Your GP

One of the most valuable parts of an annual health check is the conversation.

Your GP will take time to listen to your concerns, explain results in clear, practical language, and help you understand your personal risk factors. Together, you can create a plan that fits into your everyday life — not short-lived New Year’s resolutions, but steps you can realistically maintain.

This appointment is also a good opportunity to raise concerns you may have been putting off, such as fatigue, poor sleep, stress, or changes in mood. Ongoing support through <u>Family & General Practice</u> helps ensure these issues are followed up, not forgotten.

Who Should Book an Annual Health Check?

Most adults benefit from a yearly health check, particularly if you:

• Have a chronic condition
• Take regular medications
• Have a family history of certain illnesses
• Are over 40
• Have noticed changes in energy, sleep, weight, or mood

Even if nothing feels “wrong”, an annual review can provide reassurance and help keep your health on track.

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