The health checks every adult should get this year

Winter is the ideal season to tackle preventive health checks—fewer competing distractions and a natural moment to reset before spring arrives. If you haven't seen your GP since 2025, now is the time to book an appointment and work through a comprehensive health audit tailored to your age and risk profile.

Your local Barwon Health services, including the Geelong clinic on Gheringhap Street, offer subsidised preventive health assessments under the Medicare Benefits Schedule. A standard check-up costs around $50–$80 out-of-pocket after rebate, though concession card holders may pay less. Many GPs bulk-bill, so phone ahead to confirm.

Every adult should prioritise these baseline checks this year: blood pressure screening (especially important if you're over 40), cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and a full blood count. Women aged 25–49 should discuss cervical cancer screening; those 50+ benefit from regular mammography and bowel cancer screening kits (free via the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program). Men 45+ should discuss prostate health with their doctor.

Mental health checks matter equally. Ask your GP about depression and anxiety screening—Geelong's rates of psychological distress remain slightly above the national average. Your doctor can refer you to low-cost counselling through Barwon Health's mental health services or community agencies like Relationships Australia, located on Gheringhap Street.

If mobility and joint health concern you, a preventive fitness assessment can identify gaps before injury strikes. Many Geelong residents use the Barwon River walking trail or Eastern Beach rock pool to stay active; a GP can recommend safe starter routines and refer you to allied health specialists if needed. The Geelong Waterfront parkrun (Saturday mornings, free) also offers a low-pressure way to assess your current fitness baseline.

Don't overlook skin checks, especially given Geelong's UV exposure. Your GP can screen for melanoma and refer you to a dermatologist if suspicious moles appear. Hearing and eye tests, often overlooked, are crucial preventive measures—book these separately with an optometrist or audiologist.

Finally, discuss your family history. If parents or siblings had heart disease, cancer, or diabetes, your GP may recommend earlier or more frequent screening. Personalised prevention beats reactive treatment every time.

Contact your local practice to book your preventive health check today. Geelong's medical community is well-equipped to help you stay ahead of health risks and start 2026's second half on the strongest possible footing.

This article was compiled by AI from the sources linked above and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.