Health screening for adults with Learning Disabilites, Devon

In 2013, Healthwatch Devon, in conjunction with Devon Link Up, was asked to seek information from people with learning disabilities about their experiences of health screening. Devon Link Up is a delivery partner of Healthwatch Devon and works to give people with Learning Disabilities in Devon a real Voice and Choice about things that are important in their lives.

The two groups organised a series of events across the Devon County Council area to hold conversations with people about health screening. Over 80 people attended these groups.

While the majority of people spoken to have regular contact with their GP surgery and attended an annual health check. The annual health check form was used as an aid to prompt discussion and, while it was evident very few people had been asked about their smoking or

drinking habits, nobody who attended the events said that they had been asked about any sexual relationships.

Only seven people of the attendees said they had attended a screening, with the remainder reporting that they had not attended, and could not remember being sent a request to attend.

The report concludes that while it is it is clear that general health checks are undertaken, there are relevant questions that are being overlooked and these clearly link to the importance of the screening programme. Although those spoken to did not appear to be being offered the opportunity to attend screening there may also be influences in relation to information gatekeeping which could be examined, as should the role of GPs in identifying those who may be at greater risk due to lifestyle choices.