Medicare Health Assessment

A Medicare Health Assessment is a comprehensive medical evaluation funded by Medicare for specific eligible groups, such as people aged 40-49 at high risk of diabetes, adults aged over 75, and Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people of any age. The assessment focuses on preventative health and early disease detection and is conducted by a GP during an in-person consultation.

What is included in a health assessment?

While the exact components of a Medicare Health Assessment vary by patient category, MBS regulations outline several core elements to be included. At a minimum, these assessments must include:

1. Medical history review 

Your GP may discuss: 

• Previous illnesses and surgeries 

• Family medical history 

• Current medications 

• Existing chronic conditions 

• Vaccination status 

2. Physical examination 

This may include: 

• Weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) 

• Blood pressure measurement 

• Heart and lung assessment 

• Vision and hearing screening 

• Mobility and balance checks 

3. Lifestyle assessment 

Your GP may review lifestyle factors such as: 

• Physical activity 

• Sleep patterns 

• Diet and nutrition 

• Smoking or alcohol use 

• Stress and mental well-being 

4. Chronic disease screening 

Depending on your age and risk factors, screening may include: 

• Cardiovascular disease risk 

• Osteoporosis risk 

• Diabetes risk assessment 

• Cancer screening 

• Cognitive health and memory concerns 

• Falls risk assessment 

5. Preventative care planning 

Following the assessment, your GP may: 

• Suggest vaccinations 

• Arrange blood tests or referrals 

• Create a preventative health plan 

• Provide advice on healthy lifestyle changes 

The goal is to identify and prevent health problems early, helping individuals address potential health issues before they become more serious.

Who is eligible for a free Medicare Health Assessment?

Medicare Health Assessments are not available to everyone on request. Instead, they are targeted towards specific patient groups for whom preventative care and early detection of diseases are especially important. The table below summarises the primary eligibility categories.

There are a few key restrictions that apply to all health assessment types. They are not available to hospital inpatients, and aged care residents use a different assessment type. Most assessment types are available once every 12 months, except Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health assessments, which can be assessed every 9 months.

How to prepare for your assessment?

Getting the most out of a Medicare Health Assessment usually starts with being prepared. Your GP will need a clear understanding of your health, lifestyle, and daily circumstances, so having the following information can make the consultation more effective.

• Book an appointment with your regular GP. Medicare Health Assessments are required to be carried out by a GP or a medical practitioner who personally attends you during the consultation. 

• Bring a list of your current medications. Include over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements. Your GP may go through these during the assessment. 

• Know your family health history. Conditions such as heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers in close family members can provide useful insight into your personal risk profile. 

• Be prepared to discuss lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, nutrition, and physical activity. Providing accurate information can help identify opportunities for preventative care. 

• Make a note of any symptoms or health concerns that you may have delayed mentioning. 

• Bring your immunisation records if available. For people aged 75 and above, reviewing immunisation status is a mandatory part of the assessment. 

• If you look after someone regularly, inform your GP. Carer responsibilities and social well-being are considered during an older person’s health assessments. 

Medical Disclaimer: The content on this page is for informational purposes only.