Why Is My Annual Exam Important?

Why are annual exams essential?

“Keeping up with your annual exams is vital to your health care journey,” said Aditi Bhagat, MD, Catholic Health Physician Partners Primary Care Physician. “Together, you and your primary care physician create a roadmap for the year ahead based on factors like your age, lifestyle, family history and preexisting medical conditions.”

What should I expect at my annual exam?

“For first-time patients, an annual exam is an opportunity for you and your PCP to discuss your medical background and personal health care goals,” said Dr. Bhagat. “You will review important next steps like bloodwork, health screenings and specialists you may need to see.”

She explained that for returning patients, an annual exam also helps to review any lifestyle changes or medical concerns since the previous year.

At your annual exam:

Your temperature, blood pressure, pulse, height and weight will be measured.
Your PCP will perform a physical exam.
You may have blood drawn or receive a script to have blood drawn at a laboratory. (Your doctor’s office will advise before your appointment.)

You and your PCP will talk about the following to create wellness goals:

Diet.
Physical activity.
Sleeping habits.
Stress levels.

Are there specific health conditions my PCP and I will address?  

An annual exam is an opportunity for you and your PCP to evaluate your risk for common health conditions, including:

If you were already diagnosed with one of those health conditions, an annual exam allows you and your doctor to review lifestyle modifications, treatment options like medications and additional specialists you may need to see.

Your doctor will also review necessary cancer screenings based on age, sex and family history. For women, this includes gynecologic exams, mammograms and colonoscopies. For men, this includes routine prostate exams and colonoscopies.

What happens after my annual exams?

Your PCP will follow up with you after your bloodwork results are complete. Based on your bloodwork results, your doctor may recommend additional bloodwork or that you see a specialist for further evaluation.

Learn more about what your bloodwork means.

Will I only talk to my PCP annually?

“Your PCP is your partner on your health care journey,” said Dr. Bhagat. “We are available to our patients to discuss their health care needs all year, not just at an annual exam.”

She also noted the importance of providing your PCP’s contact information when seeing specialists and getting health screenings throughout the year. “Reports and results from those visits and exams allow for a comprehensive health care record and let you and your PCP address any questions you may have, especially if follow-up care is needed,” she said.

When should I schedule my annual exam?

If you are 18 or older, scheduling an annual exam with a PCP should become a routine part of your health care journey.

“Maintaining good health is essential at any age,” said Dr. Bhagat. “The goals you create with your PCP at your annual exam and work toward all year will help build a healthier future.”