Snub raises Roy’s blood pressure

IT’S AGEIST . . . Roy Barrass was denied a free NHS health check because he was too old

At 79 he’s told he is too old for health MOT
A CHADDERTON pensioner denied a free health check for being too old has branded the NHS ageist.

Roy Barrass had just finished shopping at Tesco in Victoria Avenue when he saw an NHS van advertising free checks to detect conditions such as heart and kidney disease, diabetes and strokes.

But when the 79-year-old tried to take part he was told the cut-off age is 74.

Mr Barrass, of Saint Georges Square, said: “It is a disgrace. I just don’t understand why there is an upper age limit. How can you be too old for a free health check? It’s pure ageism.

“And to add insult to injury, I was given a handful of leaflets to pass on to my family and younger friends.”

The free check is open to anyone 40-74 to check their risk of developing major illnesses.

The 30-minute procedure involves a series of questions and tests for blood pressure and cholesterol level.

Mr Barrass said: “I think the health check is a great idea, I just wish I could have one.

“I’m incensed. I’ve written to my MP Michael Meacher to express my disgust.”

Andrea Fallon, Consultant in Public Health for NHS Oldham, said: “There is an age limit of 74 as people older than this are already considered to be more at risk of heart disease. Their health is more likely to be monitored by their GP. People over 74 can still ask their doctor for the tests in a full NHS check.”