The purpose of an annual health screening

An annual health assessment refers to a comprehensive review of an individual’s overall health, typically conducted once a year. It is not the same as a visit for a specific illness or concern; however, in practice we often see patients booking a health screen triggered because they have medical concerns or symptoms. For many adults, an annual health screening provides reassurance and clarity about their current health status.

For most patients, a health assessment is focused on preventative care, aiming to identify issues early, and ideally before they cause symptoms or complications.

In this article, a consultant GP with Cleveland Clinic London, Dr Simon Hodes, details what happens during an annual health assessment.

The purpose of a health screening is to holistically assess your physical, psychological, and social health. This will include a review of family medical history along with lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, and movement. It offers an opportunity to have a detailed discussion with a doctor about any health concerns, no matter how minor they may seem. Annual health assessments are especially valuable for those aged over 40, individuals with a family history of chronic illness, or those managing long-term conditions. However, they are increasingly popular among younger adults who simply want to take a proactive approach to their well-being, much in the same way as you may get an annual dental check or an MOT for your car

What happens during an annual Advanced Health Assessment at Cleveland Clinic London?

A typical advanced health assessment begins with a detailed consultation. The doctor will ask about your medical history, lifestyle habits, family history, and any symptoms or concerns that you may have. This conversation helps tailor the screening to your specific needs.

You should expect a head-to-toe physical examination, which will include:

Cranial nerve exam (the nerves that control the head and neck), eye examination, ear and throat check, check for swollen glands or neck swellings
Blood pressure and heart rate checks
Height, weight, BMI measurement, and full body composition (muscle and fat mass)
Examination of the heart, lungs, abdomen, feet and other areas of concern
Skin check
A range of diagnostic tests, including a urine test (for blood, sugar, protein, infection), ECG and exercise/stress ECG, stool cancer screen (aka qFIT)

A range of blood tests is typically carried out. These assess:

Cholesterol levels and full lipid profile with Lp(a) aka lipoprotein (a) level
Blood sugar (to assess risk of diabetes), and Hba1 (3 month diabetes screen)
Liver and kidney function
Thyroid health
Inflammation marker ESR
Gout screen uric acid (aka urate)
Vitamin D, B12 levels and full iron studies
Cancer screening tests such as LDH for all, PSA (prostate) for men, and Ca125 (ovary) for women

Additional tests such as cervical smear tests, prostate checks, and hormone profiles may be recommended depending on the patient’s age, gender, symptoms and risk profile

Can I have further diagnostic tests with an Advanced Health Assessment at Cleveland Clinic London?

Yes – you can add on an MRI abdomen and pelvis (called Advance Plus Health Assessment). Or for women a mammogram and DEXA / bone density scan (called Women’s Health Assessment).

Other testing available includes heart scans and full-body MRIs (available on request and charged individually). Further blood testing can be added on request within reason and where the patient is willing to meet the costs.

What further diagnostics are available with an Executive Health Assessment at the Cleveland Clinic London?

Our Executive Health Assessment include a full CPET (cardiopulmonary exercise test) in place of an exercise ECG, hearing tests, and further diagnostics such as a USS (ultrasound scan) of the abdomen and pelvis, a five-year CTCA heart scan (for calcium load and blood flow), a brain MRI, and a neck scan for blood flow. Women over 40 are offered a DEXA (bone density scan) when due and an annual Mammogram (breast screen). Men are offered a DEXA scan if they are over 70 or, depending on risk factors and family history.

What follow-up does Cleveland Clinic London offer?

Your results are usually available on the patient portal – the MyChart app – within 48 hours and will be reviewed during a follow-up appointment within a week, allowing time to discuss any findings, offer advice, or suggest further investigations if needed.

What conditions can be uncovered?

Annual health assessments are useful for reassurance; however, they can detect a wide range of health issues, including those that may not produce noticeable symptoms in the early stages. These may include:

High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Raised Lp(a) aka lipoproteins
Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes
Liver or kidney problems
Thyroid disorders
Anaemia or vitamin deficiencies
Early signs of cardiovascular disease
Certain cancers, where screening is appropriate

Screenings can also highlight lifestyle-related risks, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, or high stress levels, and support patients in making healthier choices.

For men and women approaching middle age, these checks are particularly important for identifying chronic conditions that become more common with age – but are often silent. Even for younger individuals, an early review can reveal early patterns, encourage healthier life choices, and provide peace of mind.

Mental health and lifestyle assessments

An annual health assessment is also a valuable opportunity to address mental health, including anxiety, low mood, or stress. Many patients find it easier to raise such concerns in a routine setting, rather than booking a separate appointment.

The consultation also covers sleep, alcohol consumption, smoking, and exercise habits, allowing for honest discussion about how these may impact overall well-being. Where needed, patients can be offered support or signposting to further help.

Why an annual assessment matters

Prevention is far more effective than a cure. Catching disease early allows it to be reversed, managed or treated at an earlier stage – offering better outcomes. By attending an annual health assessment, patients give themselves the best chance of catching potential problems early—when they are more easily treated or managed. For many, these checks provide confidence and control over their health, helping to establish a long-term plan for staying well. Whether the results offer reassurance or reveal an issue needing attention, a health screening is a key part of responsible, proactive healthcare.

To learn more or to book your annual health screening at Cleveland Clinic London, please click here.