Annual Physicals
Annual Physical Exams
Regular annual physicals, health exams, and tests can help find problems before they start. Our providers can help identify health issues early, when your chances for treatment and cure are better, as well as monitor any changes in health that occur throughout the span of your life.
An annual physical exam is an essential part of a doctor’s appointment. The amount of time spent at the annual exam can vary, but this is the time when the provider is able to check in and get the full picture of your health before determining treatment.
Annual Exam History
The history part of the annual exam is a series of questions about your health. Make sure to mention any concerns you may have during this time. These questions can be about lifestyle behaviors like smoking, excessive alcohol use, sexual health, diet, and exercise. Your provider will also check on your vaccination status and update personal and family medical history records.
Vital Signs for the Annual Exam
While checking vitals, some of the things your doctor is looking at are the following:
- Blood Pressure
- Heart Rate
- Respiration Rate
- Temperature
- General Appearance
- Heart Exam
- Lung Exam
- Head and Neck Exam
Annual Exam Laboratory Tests
Depending on your age, gender, and health history, your provider may ask for a variety of lab tests. The basic tests may consist of:
- Complete Blood Count
- Chemistry Panel
- Urinalysis (UA)
- Lipid Panel (cholesterol test)
- Diabetes Screening
Annual Exams and Prevention
Annual exams are a type of preventative care and prevention is a big part of overall health. During the annual exam, providers will discuss health habits that can prevent illness and disease.
If you have not had an annual exam this calendar year, now is the time to schedule yours.
