Annual Exams are the Foundation of Preventive Care
You may have grown up only going to the doctor when you were sick. Or you may have spent several year prioritizing your child's doctor visits and neglecting your own. Whatever the reason, no matter your age, gender, or stage of life, annual physical exams are an essential element to your lifelong health. Staying healthy is a team sport. The players? You and your primary care provider (PCP).
Visiting your PCP for regular preventive care helps you and your provider increase your chances of identifying and treating health issues in the early stages before they get worse. It is also a great way to track progress towards health goals. If that's not reason enough, here are five reasons why you should schedule your annual physical exam today.
Visiting your PCP for regular preventive care helps you and your provider increase your chances of identifying and treating health issues in the early stages before they get worse. It is also a great way to track progress towards health goals. If that's not reason enough, here are five reasons why you should schedule your annual physical exam today.
Assessing your overall health
Risk factors, age, lifestyle and family history all play a role in helping your PCP determine what blood tests to order, as well as what screenings are necessary, during your annual exam including:
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Updating your immunizations
No, these are not just for kids. Adults need to keep up on their immunizations too. Your provider will review your health history and risk factors and may recommend the following immunizations:
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Screening for cancer
Routine cancer screening can help you and your PCP detect cancer in the earliest stages when it's most treatable. Your age and risk factors will help your PCP determine which screenings you need, and when. This includes those for skin , breast, cervical, colon, prostate, or lung cancer. |
Updating your health record
A lot can happen in a year, so keeping your health records up to date helps keep your PCP informed of any changes that could affect your health, including:
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How to prepare for and make the most of your annual exam
These annual visits don't have to be stress inducing. For the most part, your PCP will lead the way. But being prepared with questions or concerns will help you get the most out of your appointment.
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