Routine health checkups are one of the most cost-effective services a Canadian can use — yet studies consistently show that over 40% of Canadians are not up to date on the checkups recommended by their provincial health authority. Most of these checkups are free, require no symptoms to qualify, and are available through any family doctor or walk-in clinic. The barrier isn't access or cost; it's simply not knowing what to ask for.
The Gap
Only 40% of eligible Canadians are up to date on the colorectal health checkup recommended by provincial health authorities. The FIT test is free, takes minutes at home, and requires no preparation. Most people simply don't know it's available or that they qualify.
Essential Screenings by Age Group
| Screening | Who It's For | Frequency | Cost in Canada |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blood pressure check | Adults 18+ | Every 1–2 years | Free at doctor, pharmacy, fire hall |
| Blood glucose / diabetes screen | Adults 40+, or 35+ if at risk | Every 3 years | Free (covered) |
| Cholesterol / lipid panel | Men 40+; Women 50+ or post-menopausal | Every 5 years | Free (covered) |
| Pap smear / cervical health check | Persons with a cervix, 25–70 | Every 3 years (HPV test) | Free (covered) |
| Mammography (breast health) | Women 40–74 | Every 2 years | Free through provincial programs |
| Colorectal FIT test | Adults 50–74 (45+ in some provinces) | Every 2 years | Free (test kit mailed or picked up) |
| Bone density (DEXA scan) | Women 65+; Men 70+; post-fracture any age | Every 1–3 years | Free if referred by physician |
| Low-dose CT scan (lung health) | Heavy smokers 55–74 | Annual | Free in ON, BC, AB (expanding) |
| Eye exam | Adults 65+ (free); all children | Every 1–2 years | Free for seniors; ~$100–$150 for adults 20–64 |
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Blood pressure monitoring is one of the most commonly recommended routine checks in Canada. Approximately 7.5 million Canadians have elevated readings, and many are unaware because the condition typically produces no noticeable symptoms. A standard reading of 120/80 mmHg is generally considered within the normal range by Canadian clinical guidelines. Your physician can assess your personal results and determine appropriate next steps.
You can check your blood pressure for free at most Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, and Walmart pharmacies without an appointment. If your readings are consistently elevated, book an appointment with your doctor or walk-in clinic to discuss monitoring options and appropriate follow-up.
Colorectal Health: The FIT Test
The FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) is a simple home test — no bowel prep, no colonoscopy, no dietary restrictions. It checks for trace blood in the stool that may warrant follow-up with a physician. Here's where to access it by province:
| Province | Eligible Age Range | How to Get the Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 50–74 | Ontario Colon Health program — ask your doctor or call 1-866-662-9233 |
| British Columbia | 50–74 | BC provincial health program — kit mailed after physician order |
| Alberta | 50–74 | Alberta Screening Program — physician referral |
| Quebec | 50–74 | Programme québécois de dépistage colorectal |
| Nova Scotia | 50–74 | NS Colorectal Health Program — ask your physician for a referral |
Blood Glucose Monitoring: What to Ask Your Doctor
The Canadian Diabetes Association recommends a blood glucose check every 3 years starting at age 40, or earlier if you have relevant risk factors such as family history, elevated BMI, South Asian/Indigenous ancestry, history of gestational diabetes, or elevated blood pressure. Over 3.7 million Canadians have already been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and health authorities estimate many more are unaware of elevated readings.
The A1C blood test measures your average blood glucose over 3 months and is part of a routine blood work panel. Ask your doctor to include it at your next physical (see Canadian Task Force screening guidelines) — it requires no fasting and adds no cost to your visit.
Your Wellness Appointment Checklist
Book a wellness visit with your family doctor or walk-in clinic and use this list. Ask specifically for: blood pressure monitoring, fasting blood work (glucose, cholesterol, A1C if 40+), and information about any provincial checkup programs you qualify for by age. If you're 50+, ask about the FIT kit availability. If you're a person with a cervix aged 25–70, ask when your next cervical swab is due. Your doctor can advise on appropriate timing for each.
Vaccines for Adults: Often Forgotten, Always Important
Most Canadians assume vaccines are just for children — but adult immunization programs are a recommended part of routine health maintenance for adults at any age:
- Influenza (flu): Annual, free for everyone in most provinces (October–March)
- COVID-19 booster: Recommended annually for adults; free province-wide
- Tdap (tetanus/pertussis): Booster every 10 years; free
- Shingrix (shingles): Adults 50+; 2 doses; free in most provinces for 65+; ~$300 privately for 50–64
- Pneumococcal: Adults 65+; one or two doses; free
- RSV vaccine: Adults 60+; new as of 2024; free in some provinces