Heart health checks in Kilmore
A heart health check turns a vague worry into an actual number: your risk of a heart attack or stroke in the next five years, and what would change it.
A number, not a hunch
Cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of death in Australia, and the great majority of it is predictable years in advance from a handful of measurements.
The check combines those measurements – blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, age, smoking status, family history – into a calculated risk score. That matters, because risk is not additive in the way people assume. Two modest numbers together can matter more than one alarming one.
What you get is a figure and a short list of the things that would move it most for you specifically. Sometimes that is medication. Often it is one or two changes that are more achievable than a general instruction to live better.
Who this is for
- Adults from 45 onwards
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients from 30
- Anyone with diabetes, from 35
- People already diagnosed with high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Anyone with a parent or sibling who had heart disease before 60
- Smokers and recent ex-smokers
What the check involves
Measurements
Blood pressure, weight and waist measurement, and a heart and chest examination. Blood tests for cholesterol and blood sugar if you have not had them recently.
Your history
Family history, smoking, alcohol, activity and diet, and any previous readings. Your GP is building a picture, not filling in a form.
The risk calculation
The numbers are combined into a five-year cardiovascular risk score using the national assessment tool. Your GP explains what the figure means in plain terms.
What to do about it
Low risk means you know when to check again. Raised risk means working out what moves the number most – blood pressure or cholesterol medication, quitting support, or specific changes – and arranging follow-up.
Book a check if
- You are 45 or older and have never had one
- You have diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- A close relative had a heart attack or stroke young
- You smoke, or stopped in the last few years
- You were told your cholesterol was borderline and left it there
Before your appointment
Cholesterol and glucose tests are often done fasting, so ask reception when you book and consider an early appointment. If you have had blood tests elsewhere in the last twelve months, bring the results – it may save repeating them. Home blood pressure readings are useful too, if you take them.
Related services at All Care
All Care Medical and Dental Centre is at 3 Powlett St, Kilmore VIC 3764, with GP-led medical care and dental services at the same clinic. We welcome new patients from Kilmore, Broadford, Wallan, Wandong, Lancefield, Romsey, Beveridge, Hidden Valley, Heathcote Junction and Pyalong. Book online or call +61 3 9115 2979.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a Medicare item for a heart health check?
Medicare supports heart health assessments for eligible patients. Your GP or reception can confirm whether you qualify before your appointment.
Do I need to fast?
Often yes, if cholesterol and glucose are being tested. Check with reception when you book so you can plan the timing.
How long does it take?
Allow a longer appointment, particularly for a first check. If blood tests are needed first, the results are usually discussed at a short follow-up.
What if my risk comes back high?
It means you have found it while there is time to act, which is the entire point. Your GP will go through the options and agree a plan with you rather than simply handing over a prescription.
Book an appointment at All Care
New patients are welcome. Book online, or call our reception team if you are not sure which appointment you need.