What Is Included in Annual Physicals?
Annual Physicals typically include a comprehensive review of your overall Health and Wellness. During the visit, your healthcare provider will take a detailed medical history, including any new symptoms or concerns you may have experienced over the past year. They will ask about your lifestyle, including diet, exercise, and habits such as smoking or alcohol consumption. A physical examination will be performed, which generally includes measuring vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and respiratory rate. The provider will also examine your eyes, ears, throat, skin, and reflexes.
In addition to the physical exam, annual physicals often include screenings and tests tailored to your age, gender, and medical history. These may include blood tests to check cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and other markers of health, as well as urine tests, and sometimes more specific tests like EKGs or mammograms. Vaccinations may also be updated during this visit. The goal of the annual physical is to detect any potential health issues early, monitor existing conditions, and promote a healthy lifestyle.
