1. Case-taking (medical history)
First your doctor asks about your medical history, including any previous illnesses and those of your close family members. Your doctor may consider any existing individual risks (such as a genetic predisposition).
2. Medical examination
Usually your doctor will take your blood pressure, physically examine your stomach, listen to your heart and lungs, and check your head, throat and sensory organs as well as your reflexes, joints, spine and muscle tone.
3. Laboratory testing of blood and urine
The lab tests are done first. A blood test is only done as part of the health MOT for individuals younger than 35 when there is an existing risk, such as when the patient is obese or has high blood pressure. The blood sample is usually taken in the morning. The reason for this is because your blood needs to be taken at least twelve hours after your last meal in order to ensure that the result is accurate. The blood test determines your total cholesterol, LDL and HDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels on the one hand, and your glucose (fasting blood sugar) level on the other. These levels provide initial indications of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. The health check-up does not include a full blood profile. Individuals over the age of 35 also have their urine tested in addition to the blood test. Your urine is examined using urine test strips. This test shows whether your urine contains protein, glucose, red and white blood cells, and nitrite. The result provides indications of possible kidney disease or diabetes.
At the end of the health MOT, your doctor discusses the results with you. Your doctor will go over these results and advise you – if necessary – on how you can have a healthier life. If your doctor finds anything noteworthy, they will order more tests.