“For example, if my patient is middle-aged or older, I’ll listen to their carotid artery for stenosis, or a buildup of plaque, which I wouldn’t do for a healthy 21-year-old who’s getting a pre-employment physical.” They may do more, too, depending on your age and medical history. During this time, you can expect your provider to: Often, your body sends signals that you may not even be aware of, so a head-to-toe examination is very important. There are a couple of basic things they can check just by observing and examining your body. Next, your provider will go through a physical exam. Your provider might also ask about your exercise, smoking and drinking habits. For example, if you’re a person who gets periods, have you noticed a change in your menstrual cycle? Now is the time to bring something like that up. Use this as an opportunity to bring up any changes in your family health history or any concerns you have. Review health historyįirst, this is a good chance to brief your provider on your recent health history. Allan says, “but there are some specific things we adjust depending on each patient.” He explains what you can likely expect from your annual physical. Your yearly check-up with your primary care provider will combine two main factors: talking through your recent health history, changes or concerns, as well as a physical exam.Īdvertising Policy Your annual exam checklistĮach appointment is unique, depending on the provider and patient.

“Getting a physical should be a regular occurrence as you hit age 40 and up,” he advises. But beyond that, you should make it an annual habit. Allan says you can come in every two years or so. If you’re healthy and in your 20s and 30s, Dr. That’s something you and your provider can decide together based on your age and your unique health history, risks and needs. Maybe it’s every year or maybe it’s more or less often. There isn’t an exact formula for how often you should see your primary care provider when you’re feeling good. Opinions vary, even among medical professionals, about how often you need a physical exam. “Even if you’re young and healthy, it’s important to establish care with a provider so you have someone who knows your history to go to when something comes up,” she adds. Your provider can also suggest lifestyle changes to keep you healthy or address any nagging concerns you’ve put off, like an achy joint or an odd-looking mole you’ve been meaning to have looked at. “Catching and treating diseases early leads to better health outcomes,” Dr. and worldwide - and they often hide in plain sight. These are some of the biggest health threats in the U.S. They’re trained to spot and manage health issues, including chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease. Your primary care provider might be a physician, a physician assistant or a nurse practitioner.

And that comes in handy for the times when something actually is wrong. Physical exams provide an opportunity to check in on your overall health, which can also help you forge a relationship with your primary care provider. Allan says, “whether it’s a lingering health issue or something you read that you want your doctor’s opinion on.” “It’s a chance to come in and bring up things that are bugging you,” Dr. Have a nagging health question that doesn’t rise to the level of needing its own appointment? Your physical exam is the perfect time to ask your healthcare provider anything that’s been on your mind. Vyas talk to us about the importance of an annual exam, including how often you need one and what to expect. “It’s a chance for the doctor to reconnect with their patient and for you, the patient, to reconnect with your physician,” adds family medicine physician Daniel Allan, MD.ĭr. In addition, the actual physical exam serves as a wellness check as you touch base with your doctor, address any health issues and talk about preventive measures for your future. “You need a trusted primary care provider that you can talk to about your concerns - whether they are mental health needs or changes in your family history or any other health issues that come up,” says family medicine physician Neha Vyas, MD. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.

All things done in a doctors physical