Johnston says.These days, it’s easier to pick out a blender than a doctor. “That way, they can address each issue during your appointment,” Dr. Asking questions lets your doctor understand all your concerns.
With a list in hand, you won’t forget anything once you’re in the exam room.Īre you curious about switching medications? Not sleeping well? Wondering how you can lose some weight? Write it all down. It’s easy to get nervous at the doctor’s office. Make a list to bring to your appointment. Contact information of other doctors involved in your care.Adult vaccines you’ve received (including dates of COVID vaccines).Blood pressure (if you take it at home).If this is the first time you’re seeing a PCP, write down the following:
Make a note of it so you can share that information with your doctor. Have you visited any specialists since your last exam? Have you been to the emergency room in the last year? Are you trying to conceive? Any new symptoms from a medication or condition? Jot down a cheat sheet of your health history. Plus, keeping your doctor up to date helps make sure they don’t prescribe anything that could lead to a dangerous interaction. This helps prevent mistakes and dangerous medication interactions when you seek care outside your PCP. Your doctor will record this information so that other providers in hospitals, emergency rooms and specialty clinics can easily find it. Make a list of any medications and supplements you take and the dosages. Here are a few tips to help you get ready. So spend a few minutes preparing for your exam in the days leading up to your appointment. That way, your doctor will be able to provide the care you need, Dr. The more information you give your doctor at your appointment, the better. Make sure you get the most out of your doctor visit. They may perform more tests depending on your age and the medication you take, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Your doctor may also recommend laboratory tests to check on your organs and other body functions. He’s a family medicine doctor at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California.Ī few areas your doctor may check include: “Doctors tailor their exams to the patient,” says David Cutler, MD. The physical exam may look different depending on your age, sex and what health conditions you have. Or you’ve noticed new pain that’s bothering you.įrom there, your doctor will most likely do a physical exam. Maybe you’re having side effects from a medication you’re on. This is a great chance to ask your doctor questions. These are social factors that may affect your health, says Dr. Your provider may also ask questions about smoking habits, drug and alcohol use, sexual relationships and mood. Next, your doctor will review your medical history and any medications you take. Yearly exam breakdownįirst, your doctor will take several measurements to check your general health. Refill medications, schedule a virtual visit or shop for health essentials all from the comfort of home. The Optum Store provides total care for your body and mind. (Learn about other important health exams you shouldn’t miss.) It’s important to find a doctor you connect with. Your doctor is a partner in your health care.
Seeing your PCP every year allows you to create a stronger relationship with him or her, adds Dr. They can recommend lifestyle changes (and maybe even medications) to get your health back on track before things get worse. Let’s say your doctor notices that your risk for one of these diseases is higher from one year to the next. For example, you can track your risk factors for diabetes, blood pressure and obesity. Plus, making annual visits to your primary care physician (PCP) can help you keep tabs on how your health changes over time. She’s a family medicine specialist in Glendale, Arizona. “Screenings at these visits often catch diseases in earlier stages, making it easier to treat and prevent complications,” says Janice Johnston, MD. Yearly exams are important for your overall health. Read on to learn what happens at annual health checkups, along with a few handy pre-appointment tips. What should you expect when you get there? And how can you prepare for your appointment?ĭon’t worry. You made an appointment for your yearly checkup.
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