7 questions to consider asking your GP at your next check-up

We've all been there. You're sitting in the waiting room of your doctor's office, trying to recall the questions that you wanted to ask when you made the appointment a week ago. Then, your name gets called, and your mind magically goes blank. Your 15-minute appointment flies by, and halfway through the drive home you suddenly remember what it was that you wanted to talk about.

To remedy this all-too-familiar scenario, we've put together a list of essential questions you should consider asking your GP at your next appointment. And you know what's even better? If you're an AIA Vitality member, you can earn AIA Vitality Points simply by completing some of the simple health checks on this list.

What tests would you recommend for someone my age?

As you hit age milestones, there are specific tests that you need to start thinking about. These can range from semi-regular (like blood and skin tests) to annual (breast cancer screening) to infrequent (prostate checks). Ask your doctor what tests they'd advise for someone of your age and make a note or set a reminder in your phone for how often you'll need to repeat them.

Am I at a healthy weight level?

It can feel like an uncomfortable topic to broach, but it's important to talk to doctors about your weight. If your BMI is in the overweight (BMI of 25+) or obese (30+) category, you could put yourself at risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, and some cancers.

If your BMI falls in the underweight (less than 18.5) bracket, you could be at risk of malnutrition, decreased immune function, osteoporosis and an increased risk of surgical complications. Make sure that you step on the scale during your next appointment and make a note of any action or dietary changes you might need to make. You can find more information about BMI calculations through the Ministry of Health's 'Healthy Weight' website.

What lifestyle changes should I make?

This is a broad (but essential) category that can encompass everything from stress management, to diet, to sleeping habits. Talk to your doctor about any issues that are concerning you specifically and ask for actionable plans for long-term changes you can implement in your life. Lifestyle changes can be wide-ranging and quite drastic, depending on circumstance, so it's essential to have a plan on how to proceed.

Can you screen me for STIs?

If you're sexually active, STI screening should be a regular part of your healthy lifestyle. It's possible to be carrying an STI and be entirely asymptomatic, thereby putting your partner(s) at risk. Don't forget to talk to your doctor about your sexual history and request an STI screen.

Am I due for any vaccines?

While you'll receive most critical vaccines in your childhood, there are certain ages and circumstances where you'll need additional shots to prevent illness. If you're pregnant, it's likely you'll need specific vaccinations to protect you and your child. Individuals that are 65 and older require vaccinations for pneumococcal and shingles.

Additionally, make sure you alert your doctor if you have any plans on travelling internationally - as many global destinations require specific immunisations. Even if you fall outside of these age brackets, aren't pregnant, and don't plan on travelling - it can never hurt to be up-to-date on your flu shot. Plus, AIA Vitality members can claim up to 1,000 AIA Vitality Points for providing proof of attendance for certain vaccinations.

How's my blood pressure?

You need to keep an eye on your blood pressure because it's a reliable indicator of future health problems. If your blood pressure is too high, you're putting additional strain on your heart as it pumps blood through your arteries. While this can cause serious health issues (including increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke) it's not a condition that necessarily presents outwardly - so asking for a blood pressure check should be at the top of your list.

When should I make a follow-up appointment?

It's easy to let the months slip by and before you know it, it's been a year since you've last scheduled a check-up. At the end of your appointment, ask your doctor if you need to follow up on any of the matters discussed in the short term and when you should schedule your next general check-up.