Comparing Longevity and Executive Health Checks

Shift Towards Medicine 3.0

Today people are focused on not just living longer, but living healthier. Health checks are a common way to assess well-being, but not all are created equally. The traditional executive health check, long relied on by busy professionals, focuses on immediate health concerns. However, the rise of longevity, also known as preventative health, marks a shift towards more comprehensive, tech-driven evaluations that offer a full spectrum view of your health.

So, what sets these two evaluations apart? More importantly, why should you consider replacing executive health checks with longevity health checks? Let’s dive in.

What is a Health Check?

Health checks are comprehensive medical assessments designed to identify potential health risks and detect diseases early. They play a crucial role in maintaining good health and preventing illnesses by providing individuals with a comprehensive understanding of their health status, risk factors, and the required proactive measures needed to prevent disease.

Executive Health Check

Overview

An executive health check is typically a one-time, medical evaluation designed to assess your overall health. These checks often include blood tests, heart health assessments, and screenings for common conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, or prostate cancer. The aim is to detect any existing issues that could impact your health in the short term. While thorough, executive health checks focus on the here and now, often missing the opportunity to predict and prevent future health risks.

Who delivers these health checks?

Typically paid and organised by employers. Popular providers include EHS and healthscreen, with new innovative longevity focused companies like Everlab starting to enter the market as well. These new types of executive health assessments are beginning to replace some of the more outdated methods.

How much do they typically cost?

The cost of an executive health check can vary widely depending on the range of tests and the provider. In Australia, the price typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 per session, with prices rising if advanced diagnostics are included. Despite the investment, the focus remains on short-term health.

Who are they made for historically?

Historically, executive health checks were designed for high-ranking professionals and business leaders, individuals with busy schedules and a higher level of responsibility within their companies. These checks were aimed at preventing burnout and ensuring these key individuals remained healthy enough to manage the demands of their roles. The checks caters to those who may not have the time to focus on health proactively and need an all-in-one solution. This concept as well is beginning to shift as people are approaching their health from a more holistic perspective.  

Longevity Health Check

Overview

Longevity health checks, also referred to as preventative health checks, take a broader, more forward-thinking approach. They don’t just focus on the present; they provide a long-term view of your health through advanced testing and monitoring. Tools such as DEXA scans, which measure bone density and body composition, VO2 max tests that evaluate cardiovascular fitness, and continuous glucose monitors (CGM) that track real-time metabolic health data, all provide a timeline of your health, rather than just a snapshot. These are just some of the many additional tests that often appear in longevity health checks.

Who delivers these health checks?

Longevity health checks are typically offered by specialised health clinics and preventative health centres that focus on long-term wellness and disease prevention. Providers such as Everlab in Australia, Function in the US and Neko Health in Europe use cutting-edge technology to deliver highly personalised, comprehensive health evaluations that are tailored to the individual’s specific needs.

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How much do they typically cost?

The cost of longevity health checks tends to vary depending on the scope and frequency of the tests involved. In Australia, they often range from $2,000 to $5,000, with some programs offering ongoing monitoring and follow-up evaluations as part of the package. The cost reflects the advanced diagnostics and continuous care that come with these health checks. The Everlab longevity program currently cost $2,999 for the year which includes 6 and 12 month retesting. Longevity checks for business may vary in price and you are best to enquire directly.

Who are preventative health checks made for?

Historically, longevity health checks were designed for individuals like athletes, those with a family history of chronic disease, or health-conscious individuals focused on optimising their long-term well-being. However, more and more people, regardless of their athletic ability or risk profile, are recognising the importance of preventative health. Today, longevity health checks appeal to a wide range of individuals—professionals, parents, and even younger adults—who are seeking proactive ways to manage their health and prevent future issues. This shift reflects a growing awareness that health optimisation is for everyone, not just for those with an immediate risk or performance goal.

Key Differences Between Executive and Longevity Health Checks

Purpose and Focus

The primary difference lies in the purpose of each type of check. Executive health checks are designed to detect current health issues, making them useful for identifying immediate concerns like high blood pressure or early signs of heart disease. Longevity health checks, on the other hand, focus on preventing disease by detecting risks well before symptoms arise. These checks are preventative in nature, allowing for early interventions that can reverse or slow down the progression of potential health issues.

Medical Testing and Diagnostic Range

While executive health checks typically include standard tests such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and a few imaging studies, longevity health checks incorporate advanced diagnostic tools. For example, a DEXA scan not only measures bone density but also provides detailed insights into body composition, helping to assess risks related to obesity, osteoporosis, and metabolic disorders. Similarly, VO2 max testing evaluates how well your body utilises oxygen during exercise, providing key insights into cardiovascular and respiratory health. Additionally, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) allows for real-time tracking of glucose levels, a crucial metric for metabolic health. You can find the full list of tests typically included in a longevity health check here.

Medical and Lifestyle Components

Longevity health checks take a comprehensive approach that covers not just medical assessments but also critical lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, sleep, and mental health. This holistic evaluation helps identify areas for improvement across all facets of well-being. By focusing on these lifestyle components, longevity health checks empower individuals to make meaningful changes that can improve both their immediate health and long-term vitality. On the other hand, executive health checks tend to focus solely on medical aspects like blood tests and heart health, often overlooking the important role lifestyle plays in overall well-being.

Choosing the Right Health Check

Choosing the right health check can be overwhelming, given the numerous options available. To make an informed decision, consider the following factors:

• Comprehensive Assessment: Opt for a health check that includes a thorough evaluation of your overall health. This should encompass assessments for cardiovascular disease risk factors, cancer screening, metabolic disease, musculoskeletal disease and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and dementia. A comprehensive assessment ensures that no aspect of your health is overlooked.
• Range of Expertise: Ensure that the health check is conducted by experienced health professionals, and specialised doctors. Their expertise is crucial in accurately interpreting test results and providing reliable recommendations. Ensure there is a broad range of expertise across nutrition, physiotherapy, as well as conventional medicine.  
• Personalised Approach: Look for a health check that offers personalised recommendations based on your medical history and lifestyle assessment. Make sure the delivery method of these recommendations is comprehensive and ideally tech driven for increased engagement.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Choose facilities with state-of-the-art equipment for accurate and reliable results.
• Follow-Up Care: Select providers offering follow-up support to help you implement changes and track progress over time.

By considering these factors, you can select a health check that meets your unique needs and provides you with the necessary tools to maintain good health and prevent illnesses. Whether you opt for an executive health check or a longevity health check, the right choice will empower you to take control of your health and well-being.

Everlab -  Redefining the Health Check

At Everlab, we’ve redefined the traditional executive health assessment by combining the best elements of longevity and corporate wellness programs into a single, seamless experience. Our program provides comprehensive, cutting-edge testing conducted at our state-of-the-art diagnostic labs, with immediate access to specialised clinicians. You’ll receive personalised, actionable interventions—all packaged into just four hours, so you can prioritise your health without sacrificing your workday.

To make things even more convenient, we’ve developed the Everlab health app, where all your health data and prescribed interventions are available at your fingertips. Whether it’s tracking your progress or receiving reminders, it has it all.

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