Private health checks Health MOTs checklist

Essentials to consider before booking a health MOT

What’s your goal?

Consider what you want to know and whether you can find this information elsewhere, for example your GP or a website such as www.patient.co.uk

Use your GP

Ask your GP if you need tests or want to know more about the NHS checks offered under the UK National Screening Programme (see contacts below).

Doctor's appointment

Contact your GP if you have symptoms that concern you  

If you have symptoms

See your GP, who can organise necessary tests.

Before you book

If you decide to go ahead with an MOT, be clear what you want: do you want an emphasis on lifestyle advice, or maybe a simple private doctor’s appointment? Check the provider is registered with a regulator (see list below), otherwise you may have no independent redress if you receive poor service.

The results

A possible result is more tests, and potential worry and an inconclusive outcome, or even false reassurance. If you’re not sure that the benefits outweigh possible downsides, think twice.

Poor service

If you’re not happy with a company’s service, use its complaints policy. You can also contact the regulator if you’re not satisfied.

Insurance premiums

You must declare new conditions if you make changes to your insurance policies (including life insurance, health insurance, income protection, critical illness, mortgage protection and travel insurance) or take out new ones. If you have a health MOT that uncovers something this could raise your premiums.

Contacts

Healthcare regulators

England Care Quality Commission
Northern Ireland RQIA
Scotland Private health checks not regulated
Wales Healthcare Inspectorate Wales 

National screening programme

Which? works for you