Looking to assess your health thoroughly in Australia? Here's a quick guide:

• Why it matters: Full body checks help detect health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancers early, improving treatment outcomes and reducing long-term costs.
• What it includes: These checks typically involve blood tests, imaging (like MRIs and ultrasounds), heart assessments (e.g., ECGs), and tailored evaluations based on age, lifestyle, and family history.
• Where to go: Options include private clinics for advanced diagnostics and GPs for general health checks covered by Medicare.
• Cost: Prices range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on tests. Medicare covers basic screenings (e.g., cancer tests), but full body scans often require out-of-pocket payment.
• Preparation tips: Fast for 8–10 hours, stay hydrated, bring medical records, and avoid scheduling tests during menstruation for accurate results.

Takeaway: Regular health checks provide early insights into potential issues, helping you make informed decisions about your well-being. You can start with Medicare-covered screenings, private clinics, or tools like Vively for deeper insights.

What is a full body check?

A full body check goes beyond the usual visit to your general practitioner (GP), offering a detailed look at your overall health. These evaluations dive deeper into the condition of your organs, blood, and other aspects of your health using advanced tests and technologies.

The key distinction lies in the depth of the assessment. While routine GP visits (often covered by Medicare) focus on basic health discussions and general checkups, full body checkups are more extensive. Typically performed at private clinics, these include physical exams, lab tests, and advanced imaging to provide a thorough understanding of your health.

Purpose and benefits

The main goal of a full body check is to catch potential health issues early before they escalate into serious problems. These assessments are designed to identify abnormalities early, making treatment more effective and improving overall health outcomes.

They also provide insights into critical health markers like blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, and body composition. By addressing issues early, these checks can help cut down on costly treatments and reduce hospital visits.

The impact of early detection is clear. In Australia, nearly half (49%) of deaths in people under 75 are considered preventable. Early diagnosis can also dramatically improve survival rates for conditions like cancer.

For example, bowel cancer patients diagnosed early have a survival rate exceeding 90%. Similarly, early detection of breast cancer ensures almost all women survive at least five years, and for lung cancer, early diagnosis boosts survival rates from about 20% to nearly 90%.

Common tests included

A full body check typically covers five main areas: reviewing medical history, physical exams, diagnostic tests, mental and emotional health evaluations, and lifestyle assessments.

Blood tests are often the cornerstone, analysing everything from basic metabolic panels to specialised markers. Heart function is assessed through electrocardiograms (ECGs), while advanced imaging techniques like MRIs and ultrasounds provide detailed views of internal organs.

Many clinics also include screenings for specific health risks. These may involve cancer screenings, heart disease evaluations, and tests for conditions like strokes, aneurysms, and gastrointestinal cancers.

Some programs even offer additional assessments, such as DEXA scans for bone density, VO2 max tests for cardiovascular fitness, and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for metabolic health insights.

Customised assessments

Full body checks are tailored to suit individual needs, taking into account factors like age, gender, family medical history, and lifestyle.

The process usually starts with a detailed consultation where healthcare providers examine your risk factors and health goals. Based on this discussion, they recommend specific tests and screenings that align with your profile.

For instance, someone with a family history of heart disease might undergo more extensive cardiovascular testing, while those at risk for diabetes may benefit from advanced metabolic monitoring.

This personalised approach offers more than just a snapshot of your health – it provides actionable insights to guide your health management decisions. By focusing on your unique needs, these assessments pave the way for targeted diagnostic evaluations, which will be explored further in the next section.

Wondering how much of your health is up to you? Our blog on chronic disease and DNA breaks down what you can control and explains why getting a full body check is one of the smartest things you can do.

Where to get a full body check in Australia

In Australia, finding the right provider for a full-body health check depends on factors like location, cost, and individual health needs. Options range from private health clinics with specialised services to general practitioners (GPs), each offering varying levels of care and diagnostics. Below is an overview of the available choices.

Specialised clinics and centers

Private health clinics in major Australian cities often provide in-depth health assessments, using advanced diagnostic tools that go beyond what GPs typically offer.

Everlab operates in Sydney (Edgecliff), Brisbane (Bowen Hills), Melbourne (CBD), and Perth (Lathlain). Their services include a detailed review of your medical history with a personal doctor, comprehensive diagnostics such as blood tests, imaging, and physical performance evaluations. Results are conveniently accessible via a mobile app, and they also create tailored health improvement plans based on your results.

In Sydney, Oracle Healthcare is located in the North Shore Health Hub. They offer personalised health assessments designed around factors like age, gender, and family medical history. Their approach combines advanced diagnostic technology with a focus on patient care, ensuring each check-up includes actionable recommendations and follow-up care.

For residents in Perth, Victa Health provides a wide range of health assessments, including routine, preventative, and full-body checks, as well as well-being evaluations.

One notable example of the impact of these services comes from Executive Medicine in 2025. A client, Steve Moreschi, underwent a full body check-up with Dr. John Cummins, which revealed a heart condition. Further investigation found three blocked arteries, including one that was 100% blocked. Despite having no symptoms, the check-up potentially saved Steve’s life.

General Practitioners (GPs)

Your local GP plays a key role in preventative healthcare, offering general health checks that are often covered by Medicare. While GPs may not provide the advanced imaging or comprehensive testing available at private clinics, they are skilled at assessing individual risk factors based on age, lifestyle, and family history.

Having an established relationship with a GP can streamline the process of managing your health. They can coordinate necessary screenings and address any findings quickly, ensuring you receive the care you need.

Medicare and free screenings

Medicare covers a range of essential preventative screenings, making basic health monitoring accessible for many Australians. These include tests for bowel, cervical, lung, and breast cancer, as well as pathology, eye, and hearing tests. Diagnostic imaging is also covered when deemed medically necessary.

However, full body scans, particularly those involving MRI technology, are typically not included under Medicare or private health insurance. Private clinics offering such comprehensive check-ups may charge upwards of $3,000.

Additionally, due to a 2.4% indexation increase in the Medicare Benefits Schedule as of July 1, 2025, out-of-pocket costs may be slightly higher compared to previous years.

Knowing where to access these services is the first step in making informed choices about your health. The next section delves into the diagnostic tests and technologies that make these comprehensive assessments so effective for early detection and prevention.

Thinking about getting a full body check? It’s also a great time to learn how VO₂ max fits into the bigger picture of your long-term health.

Diagnostic tests and technologies used

In Australia, full body health checks utilise a variety of diagnostic tools to provide a thorough understanding of your overall health. Interestingly, 30% of patients discover unexpected biomarkers that reveal potential risks for future diseases.

Complete blood panels

Blood tests are a cornerstone of health assessments, offering a detailed look at essential health indicators. These tests typically measure cholesterol levels, glucose metabolism, and kidney and liver function, among other markers that reflect your general well-being.

Today’s advanced blood tests go further, examining inflammatory markers, hormone levels, and nutritional deficiencies. These insights can highlight risks for conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic disorders often before any symptoms arise.

Doctors use this information to tailor health advice. For example, if your glucose levels are elevated, they might suggest dietary adjustments. Abnormal liver enzyme levels could lead to recommendations for lifestyle changes or additional tests. These blood panels, combined with imaging, help create a detailed health profile.

Medical imaging techniques

While blood tests focus on biochemical markers, imaging is essential for identifying structural issues within the body. Technologies like MRI scans, CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasounds each play a role in examining different systems and structures.

MRI scans are especially valuable for full body screenings, offering detailed images of soft tissues without using ionising radiation. Some Australian providers now include MRI screenings for 20 common cancers as part of their comprehensive health evaluations. This is particularly important in a country where more than 135 people die from cancer every day.

Cardiac CT scans are another important tool, often included in these assessments to gauge heart disease risk. This has proven crucial, as heart disease claims the lives of an average of 118 Australians daily. One provider reports that 8% of patients discovered life-threatening heart conditions through these advanced screenings.

Ultrasounds, which use sound waves instead of radiation, are a safe way to examine organs and blood flow. They’re ideal for repeated use and suitable for patients of all ages.

Cancer screenings

Cancer detection is a vital part of comprehensive health checks, with screenings tailored to factors like age, gender, and personal risk. These go beyond standard procedures, incorporating advanced detection methods and genetic testing.

Genetic screening for hereditary cancer risks is now offered by some providers. By analysing family history and genetic markers, these tests identify individuals who may be at higher risk for certain cancers. This allows for more focused monitoring and preventive care.

For men, prostate cancer screening is an important topic to discuss with healthcare providers. Routine testing isn’t always recommended for everyone; decisions are typically based on individual risk factors, age, and family history.

‍Curious about whether a full body check is worth it? A full body MRI scan is one option to consider when exploring more in-depth assessments of your health.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring for metabolic health

Health monitoring has taken a leap forward with wearable technology, offering continuous insights into metabolic health. Among these innovations, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) stands out – not just for managing diabetes but also for promoting overall metabolic well-being.

How CGMs work

A CGM system is made up of three key parts that work together to provide real-time glucose data. First, there's a small sensor placed just under the skin, which measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid.

This sensor typically lasts 7–15 days before it needs to be replaced. The second component, a transmitter, sends the glucose data wirelessly to a viewing device, such as a smartphone app, receiver, or insulin pump.

This device displays real-time glucose levels, trends, and alerts. Finally, the system continuously tracks glucose levels throughout the day and night, offering updates every few minutes and showing whether levels are rising or falling.

For individuals without diabetes, typical glucose levels range between 3.9–7.8 mmol/L (70–140 mg/dL), depending on factors like meals and time of day.

CGMs also provide real-time alerts when glucose levels change too quickly, allowing users to make timely adjustments to their diet or physical activity. Studies have shown that CGMs can reduce HbA1c by 0.5% or more without increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia.

This continuous feedback helps users fine-tune their lifestyle choices, aligning with the preventative goals of comprehensive health monitoring.

How Vively supports smarter full body health checks

In Australia, the Vively program brings CGM technology to non-diabetic individuals looking to improve their metabolic health.

It works hand in hand with tools like full body scans by giving you a clearer picture of your metabolic health, so you can make informed decisions every day.

Here’s how the Vively program works:

• Two-week learning phase: See how your body responds to different foods, workouts, stress, and sleep patterns using a CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor).
• Ten-week habit-building phase: Get personalised guidance to improve your nutrition, activity, and recovery habits based on your unique glucose patterns.
• Wellness score tracking: Your Wellness Score is a simple number that reflects how your lifestyle is impacting your glucose control. It’s based on:
  
  
  • Glucose stability
  • Frequency and intensity of spikes
  • Recovery time after eating
  • Overall consistency in your daily routine

Vively’s app also syncs with wearables like Apple Watch and Oura Ring, giving you an even more complete view of your daily health.

“Comprehensive health checks are powerful, but combining them with real-time glucose tracking gives you a fuller picture of your wellbeing. It’s about moving from reactive care to proactive health.” — Dr Michelle Woolhouse, Integrative GP

By combining long-term structural insights from tools like a full-body MRI with Vively’s day-to-day data and support, you’ll have both the big picture and the small details covered, allowing you to take smarter steps toward lasting wellbeing

Costs, coverage, and preparing for a full body check

Understanding the costs and preparation needed for a full-body health check is essential to get the most accurate results and detect potential health issues early. Here's what you need to know about pricing, insurance coverage, and how to prepare effectively.

Typical costs

The cost of full-body health checks in Australia can vary widely depending on the level of testing included. Executive health check packages typically range between $1,000 and $3,000, while those with advanced imaging, such as MRI scans, start at $3,000 or more.

Additional options like genetic testing ($950–$1,200), colonoscopy or gastroscopy ($300–$500), body composition analysis ($120), and nutritional assessments ($200) can significantly add to the total cost. Some providers, like HealthScreen, also charge a non-refundable $750 deposit if you cancel less than three days before your appointment.

For longevity-focused health checks, prices generally range from $2,000 to $5,000. These often include ongoing monitoring and follow-up evaluations. For example, the Everlab longevity program is priced at $2,999 annually, which includes retesting at six- and twelve-month intervals.

It’s worth noting that many providers are not transparent about their pricing. Specific costs are often not listed on websites, requiring you to contact the provider directly for detailed information.

Medicare and private coverage

When it comes to coverage, comprehensive health checks are treated differently from basic preventive care. Medicare and private health insurance generally do not cover full medical checkups, meaning you'll likely need to pay out-of-pocket for most comprehensive packages.

However, Medicare does cover some preventive screenings and general health checks. These include consultations with your doctor about medical history and lifestyle, as well as specific screenings such as:

• Cervical cancer screening for women aged 25–74
• Bowel cancer screening for individuals aged 50–74 (expanding to ages 45–49 starting July 1, 2024)
• Skin cancer screening for all age groups
• Breast cancer screening for women aged 40 and older
• Prostate cancer screening for men aged 50 and older

Additionally, Medicare covers eye tests conducted by optometrists once every three years for those under 65, and annually for those 65 or older. While glasses and contact lenses are not covered, some state and territory programs may offer financial assistance.

Private health insurers provide limited support for health assessments. For instance:

• Australian Unity offers a Doctor Health Check program, reimbursing up to $150 per person per year for consultation costs not covered by Medicare.
• Medibank provides complimentary health checks with registered nurses for members with hospital cover.

Keep in mind that private health insurance typically does not cover out-of-hospital medical services, such as GP visits or specialist consultations, which are often part of comprehensive health checks.

Preparation tips

Proper preparation is key to ensuring accurate results and getting the most value from your health check. Here are some essential steps to follow:

• Sleep and timing: Aim for at least 6 hours of sleep before your appointment. Insufficient rest can lead to abnormal readings for blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. Schedule your checkup at a time that allows you to follow all preparation guidelines.
• Dietary restrictions: Fast for 8–10 hours before the checkup, although drinking water is allowed. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours prior, as it can interfere with test results.
• Medication management: Continue taking prescribed medications, such as those for hypertension, unless advised otherwise by your doctor. Never stop regular medications without consulting your healthcare provider, as this could pose health risks and affect test results.
• Documentation and clothing: Bring any relevant medical reports or test results related to chronic conditions or health issues. These documents help healthcare providers interpret your results accurately. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm for blood pressure checks and blood draws.
• Gender-specific considerations: Women should avoid scheduling urine tests within 7 days before or after menstruation, as blood contamination can affect results. Similarly, avoid mammograms during menstruation due to breast sensitivity. If you are pregnant, inform the staff to cancel any x-rays to protect fetal health.

Conclusion

Getting a full-body health check in Australia can provide valuable insights into your overall well-being, helping to identify potential health concerns like high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity early on. These assessments don’t just give you a snapshot of your current health - they also establish a baseline for future monitoring, making it easier to spot silent conditions like prediabetes or high cholesterol before they escalate. Considering that 60% of U.S. adults live with at least one chronic condition such as heart disease, diabetes, or obesity, regular screenings are a key step toward better health.

Ready to take charge of your health? Start by scheduling a comprehensive health check with a trusted provider and keep track of your lab results for ongoing reference. For added metabolic insights, you might want to explore continuous monitoring options.

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is an excellent tool for understanding how your diet and exercise choices affect your metabolic health in real time. Programs like Vively’s CGM offer personalized support through their app. As one user, Jo F, shared, this approach brought renewed awareness of her dietary habits and boosted her energy levels.

Don’t wait - comprehensive testing combined with tools like Vively’s CGM program can empower you to make smarter, healthier choices. Start investing in your health today for a brighter, healthier future.

FAQs

What’s the difference between a private full-body check and a Medicare-covered health check in Australia?

A private full-body check provides a detailed and customised health evaluation, often featuring advanced diagnostic tools, imaging, and tailored health recommendations. These checks come with a price tag of over $3,000 and aren’t covered by Medicare, making them a good option for those looking for thorough screenings and quicker access to medical services.

In contrast, a Medicare-covered health check focuses on basic health screenings, such as standard clinical assessments, blood work, and some imaging tests. These are generally fully or partially covered by Medicare and are accessible through public hospitals or clinics, offering an affordable solution for routine health monitoring. Choosing between the two depends on your specific health goals, financial situation, and the level of detail you’re seeking.

How do I know which tests and screenings I need for a personalised full-body health check?

When planning a personalised full-body health check, it's important to work closely with a healthcare provider. They’ll take into account key factors like your age, gender, medical history, lifestyle habits, and any specific health risks. This approach ensures the check-up is customised to fit your individual needs.

Typically, these assessments include a mix of blood tests - such as those for cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and liver or kidney function - and imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds. Screenings for conditions like cancer or osteoporosis are also common. Depending on your health profile, your doctor might recommend additional tests, such as glucose monitoring or cardiovascular evaluations.

By sharing your health concerns and goals with a trusted medical professional, you can develop a plan that not only supports your overall well-being but also helps catch potential health issues early on.

How can I prepare for a full-body health check to get the most accurate results?

To make sure your full-body health check delivers the most accurate insights, start by gathering your family health history and creating a list of all the medications, vitamins, or supplements you currently use. Bring this information, along with any required medical forms and your ID, to your appointment.

Jot down any symptoms, allergies, or recent health issues you'd like to discuss with your healthcare provider. If fasting is needed, avoid eating or drinking as instructed, and follow any specific guidance your doctor has given you. Being well-prepared helps ensure a more detailed and effective health assessment.

What’s the difference between a private full-body check and a Medicare-covered health check in Australia?

A private full-body check provides a detailed and customised health evaluation, often featuring advanced diagnostic tools, imaging, and tailored health recommendations. These checks come with a price tag of over $3,000 and aren’t covered by Medicare, making them a good option for those looking for thorough screenings and quicker access to medical services.

 In contrast, a Medicare-covered health check focuses on basic health screenings, such as standard clinical assessments, blood work, and some imaging tests. These are generally fully or partially covered by Medicare and are accessible through public hospitals or clinics, offering an affordable solution for routine health monitoring. Choosing between the two depends on your specific health goals, financial situation, and the level of detail you’re seeking.

How do I know which tests and screenings I need for a personalized full-body health check?

When planning a personalised full-body health check, it's important to work closely with a healthcare provider. They’ll take into account key factors like your age, gender, medical history, lifestyle habits, and any specific health risks. This approach ensures the check-up is customized to fit your individual needs.

Typically, these assessments include a mix of blood tests - such as those for cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and liver or kidney function - and imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds. Screenings for conditions like cancer or osteoporosis are also common. Depending on your health profile, your doctor might recommend additional tests, such as glucose monitoring or cardiovascular evaluations.

By sharing your health concerns and goals with a trusted medical professional, you can develop a plan that not only supports your overall well-being but also helps catch potential health issues early on.

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‍Disclaimer: The information in this blog is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. While we aim to provide helpful and accurate content, full body checks and any health-related decisions should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary, and professional guidance is essential for making informed choices about your health.