Annual Physical Exams in Annapolis
What is an Annual Physical Exam?
An annual physical exam is a regular visit with a primary care physician every year to evaluate your overall wellness and condition of your health. This exam can help the primary care doctors with Annapolis Internal Medicine learn important information about your lifestyle, along with your physical and mental health. If you’re due for an annual exam, contact Annapolis Internal Medicine today to schedule an appointment. We see patients from throughout the Annapolis area including Eastern Shore, Glen Burnie, Pasadena, Severna Park, Severn, and Bowie.
Why May I Need an Annual Exam?
An annual exam can help give you the peace of mind and help you stay on track with your health.
Even if your overall health is okay and you don’t have any medical problems you’re aware of, you can benefit from this type of exam to help prevent future health problems or spot issues early.
Your annual physical exam can also help you get to know your primary care physician. This is helpful to establish care and allow your doctor to know what is normal for you and some conditions you may be at risk for as the years go on.
Although no one is required to have an annual exam, most insurance companies will cover the cost for this visit, as it is greatly beneficial to see a primary care physician regularly.
You may consider an annual exam:
- To identify risk factors for common chronic diseases
- To detect a disease that has no apparent symptoms
- To promote healthy habits
- To update clinical data
- To update vaccinations
What is Evaluated at an Annual Physical Exam?
During your annual exam, your primary care physician may evaluate the following:
Medical History
At your visit, you will be asked about your medical history. This is your chance to talk about any complains or concerns you may have. You may also discuss your lifestyle behaviors like sleeping, smoking, alcohol use, diet, exercise or sexual health.
You can discuss your family history and any diseases that you may be at risk for. You can also discuss when you should start screening for various types of cancer, heart complications, or other conditions.
Vital Signs
Your doctor will check your heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and respiratory rate. This can give a good overall picture of your body and wellness.
Medications
At this visit, you can discuss any medications you take regularly or adjust any dosage if needed. If there are concerns about your mental or physical health, your physician may prescribe medication or refer you to a specialist.
Physical Exam
As part of the exam, your physician will also conduct a physical exam to assess your:
- Heart
- Lungs
- Eyes
- Skin
- Abdominal area
- Throat, mouth and teeth
- Breast or pelvic exam for women
- Testicular or prostate exam for men
Laboratory Tests
If you and your doctor have specific concerns, you may have a laboratory test performed at your visit. This may include a urine test, blood test, thyroid function test, or other lab procedure. This can help screen for diabetes or a number of other conditions.
What happens after an annual wellness exam?
Assuming you’re healthy and your test results come back normal, you’ll only need to do an annual wellness exam once a year. Your doctor will also likely provide recommendations to improve or stay at your current level of health.
If an issue shows up or you receive abnormal test results, you may need to go back for more tests or additional follow-up appointments. Your physician will likely want to discuss the results with you and come up with a personalized treatment plan that will fit your current health conditions.
Schedule Your Annual Physical Today!
If you’re seeking an experienced, board-certified primary care physician to perform your annual physical in the Annapolis area, contact Annapolis Internal Medicine today to schedule an appointment.