715 Health Assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People

NAIDOC Week marks 50 years of celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander strength, culture, and achievements. This year’s theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy” shines a light on emerging leaders shaping a better future.

Proactive health initiatives empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to take control in their own health. One such initiative is the 715 Health Assessment, which plays a vital role in supporting and providing culturally safe, comprehensive primary care.

The assessments are an important means to encourage early detection and treatment of common health conditions. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are eligible for a free annual health assessment, as well as follow-up services for preventative health care and education between assessments.  

Uptake in the CESPHN region remains low. In 2023-24, 17% of the Aboriginal population received a 715 Health Assessment – the 6^th lowest rate of all PHNs in Australia, and below the national average of 27.9%.

Figure 1: Percentage of Aboriginal people who have received a 715 Health Assessment, PHN region, 2023-24

Source: AIHW, 2025

What can General Practitioners (GPs) do?

Discuss with the patients in your practice who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander about the benefits of having the health check and the importance of identifying health issues early to prevent chronic conditions from developing.

Additional information GPs should know:

• GPs providing a health assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should use MBS Item 715.
• this MBS item has no designated time or complexity requirements.
• the length of the health assessment appointment will be at the GPs discretion.

For more information, including health assessment templates and videos outlining how to complete 715 Health Assessment, click here.

Deadly Choices Program Promotion

The Deadly Choices program through the Cronulla Sharks are holding a promotion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients in the CESPHN region.

Patients who have had a 715 Health Assessment in the past 6 months may be eligible for a Deadly Choices shirt. GPs are encouraged to fill in the attached form with patients and send it through to aboriginalhealth@cesphn.com.au. Eligible clients will then be contacted to arrange shirt choice and distribution.

**It’s the perfect time to book your free 715 Health Check—a culturally safe way to keep mob strong and healthy for generations to come.