A health appraisal is an evaluation of an individuals health performed to gather information about both their current bodily fitness as well as their risk of developing various medical conditions. It is similar to a physical examination, but it tends to place more emphasis on future medical risks than a physical traditionally does. A health appraisal serves multiple purposes, including making an appropriate appraisal of the individuals current health status, providing adequate guidance to parents, children, and teachers in procedures for preventing and correcting defects, and identifying the individuals risk of developing medical conditions in the future.

A health appraisal can be performed by the individuals primary health care provider, including the physical examination component, or through the school health service program. The health appraisal usually includes a questionnaire, an assessment of health status, and personalized feedback about actions that can be taken to reduce risks, maintain health, and prevent disease. It may also include a calculation of the individuals body mass index (BMI) and weight status.

Periodic health appraisals are often mandatory for students, and some employers may also offer them. Gathering information about an individuals health can contribute to their overall well-being and success by reducing absenteeism and poor performance caused by emerging medical conditions. Some health appraisal providers offer follow-up support services that assist individuals in controlling their risk of developing a certain medical condition in the future.