Annual check-ins with your primary care provider are a key part of maintaining your health. But did you know there are different types of annual physicals? Between annual checks, screenings and follow-up vaccinationsyou may be wondering what to ask for when scheduling your appointment.
Dr. Bincy A Joseph, family medicine physician at Advocate Medical Group in Libertyville, Ill., says most people should undergo a routine physical examination once a year. “We recommend an annual exam, even if you feel well,” says Dr. Joseph. “During this appointment, we perform a physical exam, check your weight and vital signs, and update your medical history if necessary.”
Physicals are also called annual, precautionstive or routine examinations.
During your time with your provider, you will have the opportunity to:
- Address your health, any symptoms or changes Cheers
- Discuss current medications
- Assess your family history and risk factors
- Have your blood drawn to check for indicators of health conditions or nutrient deficiencies
- Schedule or perform a health check
- Get the necessary vaccinations
- Screening for mental health problems
His type health check recommended depends on your age, risk factors and whether you are male or female. Routine screenings include cancer screenings such as colonoscopy or mammography and preventionscreenings for diabetes and coronary heart disease.
“Physical exams give us the opportunity to spot any issues that could become more serious over time,” adds Dr. Joseph. “We can also plan or execute important preventionscreenings that allow us to detect health conditions early when they are easier to treat.”
ONE female examination also includes:
- Pelvic exam to check for lumps or other signs of problems
- Breast exam to check for lumps or suspicious masses
- Pap test, if necessary
- Birth control options and counseling if requested
- Recommendations for managing menopausal symptoms, if needed
ONE men’s exams sometimes includes a testicular exam to check for lumps or tenderness.
Your annual physical is usually covered by insurance plans at little or no cost. If you are under 40 and in good health, your provider may recommend that you come every other year. If you have chronic health conditions, your provider may want you to see them for checkups more than once a year.
Annual wellness visit
What is the difference between an annual physical and an annual wellness visit? This appointment is intended to create a personalized, multi-year prevention plan that manages your health risks with your provider.
“An annual wellness visit doesn’t include a full exam like an annual physical,” confirms Dr. Joseph. “It also does not include preventionscreenings and vaccinations, so you should schedule an annual check-in with your doctor.”
Also called a Medicare wellness visit, this type of appointment is a free benefit if you have Medicare insurance. The prevention plan is unique to you and tells you when to schedule your doctor’s appointments, get your vaccinations and complete screenings.
Athletic physique
If you have kids in sports, you may be familiar with another type of physical visit: the athletic physical. Dr. Joseph notes that it’s important to make sure your child doesn’t have any health issues that would put them at risk while playing sports.
During this visit, your child’s provider can review his blood work, behavior, diet, sleep habits, developmental milestones, current medications, and immunizations. They will also do a physical exam and take their vitals.
This test is usually done six weeks before the start of a season and does not replace a annual check. It is also known as a pre-participation physical assessment (PPE).
Physical checklist
Regardless of the type of visit, it is important to prepare ahead of your examination. Bring a list of medications, note any changes in your health history, and write down any questions you may want to ask your provider. If you are expecting a blood test, you should also ask ahead of time about any required fasting. You should also have all the forms you need filled out and your insurance and photo ID with you.
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