This post was written by ChungNing (John) Tan, MD, PPG - Family Medicine.
For many, the start of a new year comes with resolutions and pursuits for self-improvement. While you thoughtfully consider your aspirations for career advancement, nurturing your relationships or cultivating personal growth, remember it's equally important to include your overall well-being in these plans. One way to get started is by scheduling your annual exam. In this post, we cover what to expect and how to make the most of this valuable appointment.
Building a strong relationship with your healthcare provider
Establishing care with a healthcare provider is essential to managing your health effectively. This process typically begins with choosing a primary care physician (PCP), such as a family medicine or internal medicine physician, who will oversee your healthcare needs. This ongoing relationship provides continuity of care, enabling your physician to become familiar with your medical history, lifestyle and health goals. This knowledge allows for personalized care, timely medical interventions and a comprehensive approach to managing acute and chronic conditions.
The first step is scheduling an initial appointment, commonly called a "new patient visit" or "establishment of care." During this visit, your provider will gather your medical history, review current medications and discuss your health concerns and goals. This initial meeting helps your physician build a detailed health profile and establish a baseline for tracking your health over time.
What happens during an annual adult exam
An annual exam is a thorough evaluation of your overall health and well-being. At this visit, your provider will perform a physical examination, which includes checking vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature and measuring height and weight to calculate your body mass index (BMI).
Your provider may order routine blood tests to assess your cholesterol levels, blood sugar and other key health markers. Depending on your age, gender, risk factors and medical history, your physician may recommend additional screenings, such as mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies, aneurysm screening or lung cancer screenings.
This appointment is also an opportunity to discuss any health concerns or symptoms you may have. Your provider will review your medications, suggest any necessary adjustments and offer preventive care recommendations, including vaccinations and lifestyle changes to support your overall health.
Preparing for your annual exam
Before your appointment, take time to reflect on changes in your health since your last visit. Consider any new symptoms, medication changes or significant life events that may affect your well-being.
Think about your lifestyle habits, such as diet, exercise, sleep and stress management, as these play a vital role in your overall health. If you have specific health goals, like weight management or quitting smoking, be prepared to discuss strategies for achieving them with your provider.
To maximize your annual exam, come prepared with:
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A list of all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
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Your immunization records and any recent test results or medical procedure information.
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Medical records from any specialists or providers you've seen since your last visit.
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A list of questions or health concerns to discuss with your provider.
Hear more from Thomas Mason, MD, PPG – Family Medicine, on how to get the most out of your doctor's visit in this video.
Key areas to address during your annual exam
To ensure a productive appointment, focus on the following areas:
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Current health concerns - Share any new symptoms or changes in your health. Providing detailed information helps your provider make accurate assessments.
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Preventive care - Review your current preventive care status, including screenings and vaccinations. Discuss any additional measures recommended based on your age and risk factors.
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Chronic condition management - If you have chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, discuss your management plan and any challenges you face. Your provider can offer advice or adjust treatment plans as needed.
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Lifestyle and wellness goals - Discuss your habits and goals, such as improving your diet, increasing physical activity or managing stress. Your provider can provide personalized guidance and resources to support your efforts.
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Mental health - Don't hesitate to bring up concerns related to stress, anxiety or depression. Mental health is integral to your overall well-being, and your provider can recommend resources or treatments to help.
Final thoughts
Establishing care with a healthcare provider and attending annual exams are vital to maintaining good health. These practices provide personalized, continuous care that adapts to your changing health needs.
If you need help scheduling an appointment or establishing care with a provider, our Access Center can help. Call any time, at 877-PPG-TODAY or 877-774-8632 for assistance.
