"GP Healthcheck"

Being in my 40s I was invited for an NHS health check by my GP practice - Holly Bank Surgery in Headingley, Leeds.

I have to say Carrie was great taking my blood and checking my blood pressure as well as going through the questions for a general health check and a carer's health check (I care for my elderly mother). My blood pressure was on the high side so we arranged for another check a week later. At this check she asked whether I'd ever had an ECG and a few other tests and as I hadn't she booked me in for these.

After all my tests were done Carrie booked me in to see a doctor. When I saw him there had clearly been a little misunderstanding as he asked what he could help me with and I said "I'm not sure - I just know the appointment was made to follow up on the health check and tests I've had". He took a look at the results, reassured me the my ECG was fine, my risk of heart attack and stroke was low and the only area that needed attention was my blood pressure which has fluctuated between high normal and the bottom end of hypertension.

We discussed options and agreed that I'd try some exercise and diet options and keep monitoring - using a home testing machine twice a day and dropping results in after a month.

I have to say all of my appointments have felt thorough and timing has been great - no long waits or delays.