Boots launches new free health service in stores – are you eligible?
OVER-40s are set to be offered a free health check from Boots.
The pharmacist is offering a Free Health MOT at more than 1,000 stores across England.
The service aims to help eligible patients identify and take the right steps to address high blood pressure and the potential for other health conditions.
A 15-minute check will take your blood pressure, and also offer optional BMI and waist measurements.
A pharmacist will also offer lifestyle guidance on exercise, nutrition, sleep, mental health and support to help stop smoking.
Claire Nevinson, superintendent pharmacist at Boots, said: “The Free Health MOT intends to help people gain greater insight into their health and take the steps they need to improve it.
“As we get older, we become more vulnerable to conditions like high blood pressure, so it’s important that we take steps to help stay healthy.”
She added: “The checks done during the MOT and the advice provided helps individual patients lead healthier lives.
“It also reduces pressure on the NHS by offering accessible care in pharmacies at the heart of communities.”
High blood pressure is suffered by around one in three Brits and is more common in men.
The condition increases the risk of deadly heart disease, heart attack, kidney disease, vascular dementia and stroke.
It costs the NHS more than £2.1billion every year and is the third biggest risk factor for all disease after smoking and poor diet in the UK.
The new offering from Boots can be booked online or in-store if you are aged 40 or older and have not had a previous diagnosis of high blood pressure.
People living in England may also be eligible if they are referred by a GP to have a blood pressure check.
Under-40s with a family history of high blood pressure may also be eligible, at the discretion of the pharmacist.