The Virtual Lifestyle Assessment (VLA) Programme

We all put things off. But one of the most important things of all we are known to put off is a trip to the doctor. But what if it could be easier? What if you could have a free health check from the comfort of your own home, at a time that suits you.

Some of our team recently took the opportunity to take a Virtual Lifestyle Assessment (VLA). They received quality advice and plans from health experts without having to make that dreaded trip.

As this was a full health check, they had the time to go over everything required without the time restrictions that come with an appointment with your GP.

The VLA is fully funded through the NHS and Healthy Cornwall, so it is for people living in Cornwall only.

Face-to-face checks are possible as well as the virtual assessments, so you have the option to pick the one most suitable for you.

Free Face-to-face Health Check

In order to receive a free face-to-face health check you’ll need to:

• be aged between 40 – 74 years
• have not received a health check in the last 5 years
• have no underlying health condition including blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart condition or any other health condition that you need to see your GP for on a regular basis.

While both health check options explore your overall lifestyle, the face-to-face health check is the only one that allows your blood pressure and cholesterol to be checked. Health software QRISK is also used to calculate your risk of other health issues such as stroke, heart disease, chronic kidney disease and diabetes type 2.

VLA

The conditions for taking a VLA is quite different to those for the face-to-face health check. They are:

• open to anyone aged between 18-80
• allowed yearly if you wish, there is no time restriction between each check
• available to those with underlying health conditions

The VLA allows for an hour long appointment, so you still receive a thorough health check when completed virtually.

What Areas Covered by the VLA Programme?

From your free health check you’ll receive checks in the following areas:

Mental Health and Wellbeing

You’ll complete a questionnaire before your appointment to be evaluated. This will allow your assessor to prepare information and advice most relevant to your situation.

Lifestyle Assessment

This will cover 6 key areas of your lifestyle. These are:

• BMI
• Exercise
• Diet
• Hydration
• Smoking
• Alcohol

Results

You’ll receive results from all of your tests after the appointment.

Follow up Appointment

8-10 weeks after your appointment, you’ll have a follow up to compare and discuss the progress you are making. You will review your goals set during the appointment and talk about how your lifestyle changes are progressing as well.