In one sentence
The Check-up 35 is the preventive health exam paid by the gesetzliche Krankenkasse: once between 18 and 34, then every three years from age 35. It includes a talk, a physical exam, and a blood test for cholesterol and blood sugar.
The Check-up 35, officially the Gesundheitsuntersuchung, is the general preventive exam for people with gesetzliche Krankenversicherung. You can take it once between 18 and 34, and from age 35 every three years. Your Krankenkasse pays for it.
The check includes a conversation about your health history and risks, a physical exam, a blood pressure measurement, a urine test, and a blood test that covers cholesterol values and blood sugar. From 35 it also includes a one-time screening for hepatitis B and C.
Two things surprise many people. First, a Blutbild is not part of it. The blood test in the Check-up 35 looks at blood fats and sugar, not at your blood cells, so a großes Blutbild only happens if your doctor has a medical reason to order one. Second, values like vitamin D, ferritin, thyroid or hormones are not included either. If you want those without symptoms, they are usually an IGeL-Leistung or part of a larger self-paid panel.
The Check-up 35 is a sensible baseline, and it is worth taking. It is just much smaller than most people assume.
This glossary entry is general information, not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat or rule out any condition. Discuss your own results with a clinician who knows your history.
