Difference Between Basic, Advanced & Platinum Health Check
Discover the key differences between basic, advanced and platinum health checks and learn which private health screening package may be right for your needs.
A health check comparison helps you understand what each screening level includes, so you can select the package that best aligns with your personal health goals. For a broader overview of available options, see our comprehensive guide to choosing the right health screening package.
At a Glance: Basic vs Advanced vs Platinum
| Feature | Basic | Advanced | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Blood Count & ESR | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Lipid Profile (Cholesterol) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Blood Glucose & HbA1c | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Liver Function | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Kidney Function | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Bone Markers | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Thyroid Function (TSH, Free T4) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Iron Studies (Iron, Ferritin, TIBC) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Vitamins (D, B12 & Folate) | — | ✔ | ✔ |
| Cancer & Cardiac Markers | — | — | ✔ |
What Does a Basic Health Check Include?
Even at the basic level, our Full Body MOT is a comprehensive screening. It includes:
- Full blood count (FBC) & ESR — measures red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and inflammation
- Lipid profile — total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and non-HDL cholesterol
- Blood glucose & HbA1c — screens for blood sugar levels and longer-term glucose control
- Liver function tests — evaluates liver enzymes and proteins (ALT, AST, GGT, bilirubin, albumin)
- Kidney function — creatinine, urea, eGFR, and electrolytes
- Thyroid function — TSH and Free T4 to assess thyroid health
- Iron studies — serum iron, ferritin, and TIBC
- Bone markers — calcium, phosphate, uric acid, and magnesium
The Basic also includes a range of physical measurements: BMI, blood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, lung function (peak flow), and a cardiovascular risk score. If you are curious about the full process, read our article on what happens during a full body MOT.
What Does an Advanced Health Check Cover?
The Advanced Full Body MOT includes everything in the Basic package, plus three important nutritional markers: Vitamin D (25-OH), Vitamin B12, and Folate. These additions help identify common deficiencies that can significantly affect energy levels, mood, immune function, and overall wellbeing.
Practical Insight
Vitamin D deficiency is widespread in the UK, particularly during autumn and winter. Low B12 or folate can contribute to fatigue and mood changes. Adding these markers provides a more complete nutritional picture alongside the comprehensive blood panel already included in Basic. To get the most accurate results, be sure to avoid the common mistakes that can affect your blood test results.
What Makes a Platinum Health Check Different?
A platinum health check represents the most comprehensive tier of blood test screening available. Building on everything in the Advanced package (including vitamins D, B12, and folate), the Platinum adds gender-specific cancer markers — Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) for men and CA-125 for women — along with the cardiac biomarker BNP (NT-pro BNP), providing an additional layer of cardiovascular and cancer-related awareness. Learn more about the key benefits of premium health screening and whether it may be right for you.
Practical Insight: The inclusion of cancer markers such as PSA and CA-125 in the Platinum check can sometimes highlight areas that warrant further investigation — findings that would not be captured by a standard blood panel. Combined with the vitamin markers added at the Advanced level, the Platinum tier offers the most thorough overview of your health.
Who Should Consider Each Level?
- Basic — younger adults, those who screen regularly, or anyone wanting a quick overview
- Advanced — individuals over 30, those with family history, or anyone experiencing unexplained symptoms
- Platinum — individuals over 40, those who haven't been screened in several years, or anyone seeking the most thorough screening available
Take a Proactive Step Towards Understanding Your Health
Whether you're considering a basic overview or a comprehensive platinum health check, taking the time to understand your health through preventive screening is a positive step. For pricing information, see our complete guide to full body screening costs in the UK. Explore our health screening packages to find the option that feels right for you.
The information provided in this blog is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any health concerns.
