Understanding the 75+ Health Assessment

May 12, 2025

In Australia, individuals aged 75 years and over are eligible for a comprehensive annual health check-up known as the 75+ Health Assessment. This assessment is designed to help older Australians maintain independence, detect health concerns early, and plan appropriate ongoing care.

At The Village GP Black Rock, we are committed to providing care to older persons and their families through personalised, preventative healthcare services. Here’s everything you need to know about the 75+ Health Assessment.

What Is the 75+ Health Assessment?

The 75+ Health Assessment is a Medicare-funded health check for older Australians. It is a structured consultation provided by your GP and practice nurse that covers your medical, physical, psychological, and social wellbeing. The goal is to identify health issues early, support independence, and reduce hospital admissions by promoting proactive healthcare.

What Does the 75+ Health Assessment Involve?

During your appointment, your GP and nurse will carry out a comprehensive review, which may include:

Medical history review (including chronic diseases and medications)
Medication management, especially to reduce the risks of polypharmacy
Functional assessment – mobility, balance, falls risk, continence, hearing and vision
Cognitive screening – to check for early signs of memory loss or dementia
Mental health review – including mood and social engagement
Social supports and safety – including living arrangements and care needs
Health promotion advice – including nutrition, exercise, and immunisations
Advance care planning discussions, if appropriate

This detailed assessment allows your GP to create or update a personalised care plan, which may include referrals to allied health providers or community services.

Who Is Eligible?

To be eligible, you must:

Be 75 years or older
Be living in the community (not currently in hospital or permanent residential aged care)
Be enrolled in Medicare

Is the 75+ Health Assessment Covered by Medicare?

Yes – the 75+ Health Assessment is fully funded by Medicare under MBS item 705. Most GPs bulk bill this service, meaning there is usually no out-of-pocket cost. However, it’s always worth confirming with your practice beforehand. By utilising this Medicare benefit, patients receive high-quality preventative care without financial stress, making it a valuable annual check-up.

Why Is the 75+ Health Assessment Important?

Older individuals often face multiple and complex health conditions. The 75+ Health Assessment:

Promotes early detection of health concerns such as falls risk, memory loss, and depression
Supports independence by identifying needs before crises occur
Improves medication safety
Provides peace of mind to families and carers
Encourages ageing in place, safely and comfortably at home
Connects patients to support services, such as My Aged Care or home care packages

How Often Can You Have a 75+ Health Assessment?

Eligible patients can have one assessment every 12 months. If any new issues arise between assessments, you can still consult your GP, who may suggest a review or follow-up consultation.

What Happens After the Assessment?

Following your assessment, your GP may:

Update or initiate a Chronic Disease Management Plan
Provide referrals to allied health professionals (e.g. physiotherapists, podiatrists, dietitians)
Recommend preventative measures like falls prevention programs or social engagement activities
Offer respite care support options if you are a carer
Discuss or update Advance Care Directives and planning

How to Book Your 75+ Health Assessment

Booking is simple. Contact your local GP clinic—like The Village GP Black Rock—and ask for a 75+ Health Assessment appointment. These typically require a longer consultation to allow time for thorough review and care planning.

At The Village GP Black Rock, our team of dedicated GPs and nurses offer comprehensive, respectful, and compassionate care for older adults. We proudly support patients and families across Black Rock, Sandringham, Beaumaris, Cheltenham, and surrounding Bayside suburbs.

Whether you’re due for your next health assessment or supporting a loved one, we’re here to help you make informed, proactive healthcare decisions.