What Is an Annual Physical?
Your primary care provider (PCP) is your partner on the journey to whole health. And seeing your PCP for a physical exam every year is one of the best ways they can walk with you through a lifetime of health. An annual physical exam, also called a yearly wellness exam, is a routine once-a-year visit with your PCP to help you stay on top of your health and wellness.
What Happens During a Yearly Physical Exam?
During an annual physical checkup, your provider will look for potential issues and focus on preventive care by getting to know you and your family history.
Your PCP will take your vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature. They’ll also go over your height and weight so they can track changes over time. They’ll also do a physical examination of your eyes, heart, lungs, ears, nose and throat, and test your reflexes. Depending on your age, your provider may order blood work or any necessary screenings.
Why Are Annual Physicals So Important?
Annual physical exams are important for several reasons, including early detection of disease, staying on top of regular screenings and getting personalized care.
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Early Detection
Your primary care provider gets to know you so that they can track changes in your health over time. This means conditions are more likely to be caught early, giving you a better chance of better outcomes.
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Keeping Vaccinations Current
Seeing your PCP for a yearly physical gives you the chance to receive annual vaccinations like a flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine, or any other immunizations you may need.
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Personalized Care
Seeing your PCP yearly builds a trusted patient-provider relationship. They get to know you and your health history, which allows them to provide you with expert care.
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Preventive Care
Yearly physicals give your PCP the opportunity to provide care that can slow or stop the progression of disease or provide a diagnosis before there are long-term complications.
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Stay on Top of Screenings
Annual physical checkups include necessary screenings, such as blood tests, mammography for women, colonoscopies for adults 45 and older or prostate exams for men.
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Support Long-Term Health and Wellness
Your PCP is your go-to provider for every age and stage of life. You can build a lifelong relationship with them, and they can walk with you throughout a lifetime of health care.
Helping You Feel Whole for Life
Your primary care provider can be an ally in helping you feel whole for life. Annual physical exams are a great way to catch potential issues early, address any concerns and set the stage for a healthy year ahead. Our team of expert PCPs offers comprehensive care for patients of all ages, with extended hours available at select locations to help you stay well year after year.
Whether you’re searching for a new PCP near you or just need quick care now, we have convenient same- and next-day appointments.