It is important that all women consider having a Heart Health Check. In Australia, there is a Medicare-supported Heart Health Check available for women aged 45 years and over, and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women aged 30 years and over. This check helps assess key risk factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, lifestyle and family history.
The Her Heart Checklist was created in response to women wanting clarity, confidence and practical support when talking to their GP about heart health, and to help women prepare for these important conversations and make the most of their appointment.
A practical tool created with women, for women
The Her Heart Checklist was created in response to what women told us they needed — clarity, confidence and practical support when talking to their GP about heart health.
Women consistently asked:
- What questions should I be asking?
- What information should I bring?
- How do I make the most of a short appointment?
The Checklist was developed with women, based on lived experience, and co-designed with General Practitioners to ensure it is realistic, relevant and useful in everyday care.
What is the Her Heart Checklist?
The Her Heart Checklist is a simple, evidence-informed resource that helps women prepare for a heart health conversation with their GP or health professional.
It brings together key information that is often missed or forgotten during appointments, helping ensure your heart health is properly considered.
Before your appointment: prepare with the Checklist
Completing the Checklist before your appointment helps you make the most of your time with your GP.
It helps you organise:
Your family history
Try to note:
- Which family member was affected (parent, sibling, grandparent)
- What condition they had (heart attack, angina, stroke, heart failure)
- How old they were when it occurred
- Heart disease at a younger age in close family members is especially important to share.
Your medical history
Include any conditions you have been diagnosed with, such as:
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Diabetes or gestational diabetes
- Pregnancy-related complications
- Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions
Your medications
Bring a current list of:
- Prescribed medications
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Supplements or herbal products
This helps your GP assess interactions and cardiovascular risk more accurately.
Lifestyle and symptoms
The Checklist prompts you to reflect on:
- Physical activity, smoking and alcohol
- Sleep and stress
- Any symptoms or changes you have noticed, even if they feel mild or intermittent
Writing these down in advance makes it easier to raise them during your appointment.
What the Checklist is — and what it is not
The Her Heart Checklist does not calculate or diagnose heart disease risk.
It is designed to support conversations and ensure the right information is available so your GP can decide whether further assessment, such as a Heart Health Check, is needed.
Why this matters
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for Australian women, yet many risk factors develop silently.
Once risk factors are identified, heart disease is up to 80% preventable through informed, supported changes. Being prepared helps ensure opportunities for prevention are not missed.
One of Her Heart’s most trusted resources
The Her Heart Checklist is one of Her Heart’s most widely used tools. It reflects a commitment to listening to women, working alongside clinicians, and providing practical resources that fit real life.
Take the first step
Download the Her Heart Checklist, complete it at home, and take it with you to your next appointment so you can make the most of your time and ensure your heart health is part of the conversation.
