Should I be seeing my GP more after my heart attack?

Dr Mike Knapton replies:

Anyone who has had a heart attack needs both cardiac rehabilitation and regular follow-up by a GP or experienced practice nurse. This should include annual blood pressure checks, a blood test (for cholesterol and kidney function) and a review of your medication. It’s also an opportunity to discuss any other concerns.

Think about making a routine appointment around the time of your birthday each year to help you remember

Ideally, you can arrange blood tests in advance of your GP appointment, and take your own blood pressure at home with a portable monitor and keep a diary of the readings. This will help you and your doctor make the most of the follow up appointment as all the data you need will have already been collected, leaving more time to discuss your health.

For most patients an annual check-up is appropriate, though some people need more frequent check-ups, for instance if your condition is unstable or you have recently changed medication. I suggest that at your next GP visit, you discuss how often you need a routine check-up and how to organise blood tests in advance.

Some surgeries have an automatic recall system to remind you when your check-up is due, though this does not suit everyone. Think about making a routine appointment around the time of your birthday each year to help you remember.

• Read more about questions to ask your doctor.
• Watch our video to learn how to measure your blood pressure at home.