Hypertension Screening
Blood pressure checks — a few minutes that can catch a condition with no symptoms at all.
Preventive Screening
Diabetic Screening
Blood glucose checks to spot diabetes early — and regular monitoring if you already have it.
Preventive Screening
What this service is
Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not use glucose effectively. Over time, consistently high blood glucose can affect the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart. The encouraging part is that diabetes is very often found early enough to be managed well — and screening is how it is found.
A glucose test measures the sugar in your blood at the moment it is taken. A single reading is only a snapshot, so we interpret it alongside your symptoms, your history and, where needed, a repeat or laboratory test before drawing any conclusion.
If you already have diabetes, the same checks are used to monitor how well your treatment is working and to guide the next step in your care plan.
At your visit
What to expect
Every visit is a little different, but these are the steps you can expect for this service at Ikageng Health Centre.
Glucose reading
A finger-prick sample gives a blood glucose reading, usually quickly and with no lasting discomfort.
Symptoms and history
We ask about thirst, urination, weight, energy and family history to put your result in context.
Blood pressure
Blood pressure is checked, because diabetes and raised blood pressure very often occur together.
Comparison
Your result is compared with previous readings so that you can see the direction of travel, not just one number.
Plan
Any further tests your practitioner recommends are arranged, and a review date is set.
Reasons to visit
Why people come to us
If any of these sound like you, please come in — or phone us first if you would like to talk it through before you do.
- You have a family history of diabetes or heart disease.
- You are carrying extra weight, or you are less active than you would like to be.
- You are over 35 and have not had a glucose check recently.
- You have noticed thirst, tiredness, blurred vision or unexplained weight loss.
- You already have diabetes and need regular monitoring.
Before you come
- Bring your clinic card or any records you have.
- Bring a list of any medication and supplements you take.
- Bring the results of any tests done elsewhere.
- Write down your questions beforehand — it helps.
- Bring someone with you if you would like support.
All of our conversations are private. You are welcome to ask questions at any point, and you can ask to speak alone.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
If your question is not answered here, phone us on 067 575 2528 — we are happy to talk it through.
What are the early signs of diabetes?
Increased thirst, passing urine more often than usual, tiredness, blurred vision and unexplained weight loss. Not everyone notices symptoms, which is exactly why screening matters.
Is a finger-prick test accurate?
It gives a good indication, but any unexpected result is confirmed with a laboratory test before a diagnosis is made.
Should I fast before the test?
Not always, but it gives a more reliable picture. Phone us before your visit and we will tell you what to do based on the test being offered.
How often should I be tested?
It depends on your age, your risk factors and whether you already have diabetes. We will agree a schedule with you.
Related
You might also need
Many of our services work hand in hand. These are the ones people ask about most often alongside diabetic screening.
Cholesterol Screening
Cholesterol and lipid checks — a clearer picture of your heart and blood vessel health.
Chronic Condition Care and Monitoring
Regular review and support for long-term conditions, so that your treatment keeps up with your life.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you need this service, a routine screening, or simply have a question about your health, we are here to help.