A warning has been issued to Dudley borough residents about apparently free healthcare assessments being offered by private companies.

Dudley Council’s trading standards team has received complaints from local residents about companies marketing free health checks, which are costing them in excess of £100.

Councillor Stuart Turner, cabinet member in charge of trading standards, said: 

“What we are finding is that many people are missing the small print in healthcare agreements.  They may offer a free health screening, but it can be in return for you agreeing to a larger package of health checks, costing often in excess of £100. 

“Plus, what many people don’t realise is that many of the services being offered by these companies are readily available on the NHS.  I am particularly concerned for elderly and vulnerable people, who could make a costly and unnecessary mistake.”

People with health concerns are being recommended to speak to their local GP, who can provide appropriate and unbiased advice about health screening.

Local people are also being advised that if they have signed-up to any contract for goods or services worth more than £35, including for healthcare checks, that the law gives them seven days to change their mind.

Anyone who is aware of a company offering false free health checks in their area should call Dudley Council’s confidential Bogus Caller hotline on 01384 812045, or Dudley Trading Standards, on 01384 818871.