Persuading your GP to give you a check

Some GPs may not be aware of the need for health-checks or of the money they could make from providing them. So it could be worthwhile talking to your GP about the issue.

Remember to mention that:

  • The average surgery would get £3,600 in 2005-6 for creating a register and giving people with mental illness health checks. 
  •  Setting up a register is relatively easy. It’s just a matter of checking patients’ records.
  • The physical health-checks are similar to those given to other people with chronic diseases. Most are routine procedures that practice nurses can do.
  • Regular health checks improve the physical health of people with mental illness (in an American study of health-checks by Jeste in 1996, people’s health improved).
  • 1 in 3 people with mental illness say that physical health-checks are a top priority.
  • With fewer physical problems, patients will not need to see their GPs so often.

More information

Rethink, NIMHE and MDF – the bipolar organisation have together produced a leaflet about the new checks called ‘Getting more from your GP practice'. It may be a good idea to show your GP a copy. Phone The Mental Health Shop on 0845 456 0455 or by visiting our website Getting more from your GP practice to order or download a copy.

It may also be a good idea to talk to other people at your surgery about the issue – the receptionist or a practice nurse if there is one.

Write a letter

Writing a letter to your GP is also a good way to let them know about the issue.Download a draft letter you could try[doc]