To ask the Minister of Health to detail the rational for a blood test not being included as standard practice during annual learning disability assessments, given that this test could highlight issues such as diabetes in a cohort of people who may have difficulty communicating symptoms.

Annual Health Checks for people with a learning disability are delivered through the Northern Ireland Contract Assurance Framework (NICAF), which requires General Practices (GP) to use a recognised protocol such as the Cardiff Health Check. These protocols include recommended blood tests, such as glucose and lipid profiles, where clinically indicated.

Blood tests are not mandated for every individual because venepuncture is an invasive procedure that may cause distress, particularly for those requiring desensitisation or best‑interests processes where capacity is limited. Current clinical guidance therefore supports an ‘offer and clinical indication’ model rather than universal testing.

GPs undertake blood tests where symptoms, risk factors or existing conditions require investigation, or where individuals or carers consent to testing. This approach ensures that clinical judgement, proportionality and patient rights remain central to the assessment.

The draft Learning Disability Service Model and its Service Delivery Plan outline actions to improve the quality and uptake of Annual Health Checks including:

a regional communication plan.

strengthened Health Facilitation

development of a monitoring database, and

enhanced support for reasonable adjustments within primary care.

These measures will improve early identification of health needs, including through appropriate use of blood tests.