At Manhattan Primary Care, we provide both annual physical exams and annual wellness visits, tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Regular health screenings are crucial, as early detection of potential health issues can significantly improve treatment outcomes. According to the CDC, about 70% of adults visit their healthcare provider at least once a year, demonstrating the importance of routine exams.
What is an Annual Physical Exam?
An annual physical exam is a comprehensive check-up performed by a health care provider to assess your overall health. It includes a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and any necessary laboratory tests.
The American Medical Association (AMA) estimates that over 45 million Americans receive annual physicals every year, contributing to early detection of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension.
What is an Annual Wellness Visit?
An annual wellness exam, on the other hand, focuses on preventive care. Covered under Medicare, this exam aims to create or update your personalized prevention plan. While not as comprehensive as a physical, the annual wellness exam includes:
Assessing risk factors for future health problems
Discussion of your current health and lifestyle
Reviewing medications and necessary immunizations
Why Do You Need an Annual
Physical Exam
The annual physical exam helps to:
- Detect health problems early, such as high blood pressure
or heart disease - Ensure you’re up-to-date with screenings and immunizations
- Provide personalized health advice for lifestyle improvements
Key Benefits of an Annual
Wellness Exam
The annual wellness exam offers critical preventive care by identifying risk factors and creating a tailored healthcare plan. This exam is particularly beneficial for older adults under Medicare, providing a proactive approach to managing your health.
Annual Physical Exam
Checklist by Age
Following is the breakdown of essential screenings at different stages of life:
Young Adults
(20-39 years)
Blood pressure, cholesterol, and mental health screenings
Middle-Aged Adults
(40-59 years)
Diabetes, cardiovascular, and cancer screenings
Older Adults
(60+ years)
Bone density, vision, and comprehensive metabolic testing
Statistics
In the U.S., over 60% of adults aged 45 and older schedule annual physical exams or wellness exams. Studies show that individuals who participate in annual checkups reduce their risk of hospitalization by 20%, emphasizing the importance of preventive healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect during an annual physical exam?
During your annual physical exam, a thorough physical examination will be conducted, including checking your vital signs and performing basic tests like blood work.
Why do you need an annual physical exam?
An annual physical exam helps detect health problems before they become serious and keeps you up-to-date with necessary immunizations and screenings.
How often should I have an annual physical exam or wellness exam?
Both exams are recommended once a year for adults. However, if you have ongoing health conditions, your healthcare provider may suggest more frequent visits.
What tests are done during a physical exam?
A typical physical exam includes blood pressure measurement, blood tests for cholesterol and glucose, and age-appropriate screenings.
What should I bring to my physical or wellness exam?
Bring your medical history, any medications you’re currently taking, and any past test results for your doctor’s review.