The Power of an hour
Your annual preventive exam is more than just a check-up. It’s a dedicated time to focus on your health, catch potential concerns early, and build a plan that supports your well-being long term.
Even if you feel healthy, these visits play an important role in prevention, early detection, and staying on track with your health goals.
Many health conditions develop slowly and may not cause symptoms right away. Preventive care helps catch concerns early, when they are often easier to manage.
Regular check-ups also help you build a relationship with your provider, so you have a trusted partner in your care.
What is an Annual Preventive Exam
An annual preventive exam is a routine visit with your primary care provider focused on keeping you well. It’s different from a sick visit or follow-up appointment.
During your visit, your provider will review your health history, talk through any concerns, and recommend screenings or tests based on your age, lifestyle, and risk factors.
Your provider looks at the full picture of your health to determine which screenings are right for you.
Common screenings may include:
Blood pressure check
Helps assess how hard your heart is working and your risk for heart disease and stroke.
Cholesterol screening
Measures fats in your blood to better understand your heart health.
Blood sugar screening
Identifies early signs of diabetes or prediabetes, often before symptoms appear.
Bone health screening
A bone density scan may be recommended based on your age and risk factors to check for osteoporosis.
Height, weight, and body mass index (BMI)
These measurements help guide conversations about overall health and wellness.
These screenings help identify potential health concerns early. Based on your results, your provider may recommend follow-up care or simple lifestyle changes to help you stay healthy.
Preventive care also includes routine screenings based on your age and health history. Your provider may recommend:
- Cancer screenings, such as breast, cervical, or colorectal screenings
- Immunizations to stay protected against preventable illness
- Mental health screenings
- Vision or hearing checks
These recommendations are personalized to you and may change over time.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Your exam may include:
- A review of your personal and family health history
- Measurements like height, weight, and blood pressure
- A physical exam
- Recommended screenings or lab work
- A review of medications
- Time to discuss any questions or concerns
This visit is also a chance to talk about your daily habits, including nutrition, sleep, activity, and stress.
Your health is an ongoing journey, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether it’s been a year or a few years since your last visit, now is a great time to check in. Call your clinic to schedule your annual exam today.
