Perceptions of health professionals involved in a NHS Health Check care pathway

Abstract

Background: The national NHS Health Check programme in England aims to help people stay well for longer and is designed to support individuals aged between 40 and 74 years to manage their risk of developing vascular diseases by offering a cardiovascular risk assessment every 5 years. Aim: To investigate health professionals' experiences and perspectives concerning the implementation of a local HC programme and challenges to delivery. Methods: Surveys including standardized quantitative questions and qualitative questions were administered to GP practice staff (n=25) directly involved in the implementation of Health Checks within a single county in the South West of England. Results: There was a lack of clarity concerning the expectations for Health Checks and barriers to consistently implementing the pathway. Practitioners were not always confident in communicating risk or supporting change in patient health behaviours. Conclusions: There is a need for on-going training and support in respect to Health Checks for those engaged in its implementation.