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The Importance and Benefits of Annual Health Check-Ups

Mar 29, 2024

Primary Care

The Importance and Benefits of Annual Health Check-Ups

Annual health check-ups are essential for maintaining well-being and preventing potential health problems. In the United States, where healthcare accessibility varies widely, annual health check-ups play a crucial role in the early detection and management of health conditions. According to data, 92% of Americans believe they must have one health check-up each year, but only 62% undergo an annual physical exam. While there is a general awareness and consensus among people that annual health check-ups are important for preventive healthcare, these tests are more often overlooked.

This blog discusses what an annual check-up is, what it includes, its benefits, what doctor performs the test, what happens during the test, and why getting the check-up is important.

What Is an Annual Health Check-up?

As the name suggests, an annual health check-up is done once a year to check your vital health parameters. Your doctor performs a routine health check, during which they assess the functioning of your organs through various tests, update your immunization record, address visible and potential health concerns, and provide lifestyle tips to ensure your overall well-being.

What Is Included in an Annual Physical Exam?

A standard annual physical exam comprises:

1. Assess your medical history, including any complaints or concerns that you may have regarding your health.

2. Review of your lifestyle behaviors such as diet, exercise, sexual health, and excessive alcohol and tobacco use.

3. Physical examination to check your vital stats, including:

  • Blood pressure
  • Heart rate
  • Respiration rate
  • Body temperature

Besides checking your vital signs, your doctor may conduct the following exams to gather more information about your health.

  • Dermatological exam
  • Head and neck exam
  • Ear, nose, and throat exam
  • Abdomen exam
  • Heart exam
  • Lung exam
  • Extremities exam
  • Neurological exam

4. Other diagnostic tests such as:

  • ECG
  • Complete blood count
  • Urine test

Your healthcare provider may also perform specific gender-specific tests. For men, the tests include:

  • Testicular exam
  • Hernia exam
  • Penis exam
  • Prostate exam

For women, the tests are:

  • Breast exam
  • Pelvic exam

Benefits of Annual Check-Ups

All doctors recommend an annual physical exam for their multiple benefits, including:

1. Preventive Healthcare

An annual wellness exam checks your general health and updates your vaccinations and immunizations. It is the most effective preventive measure to ensure minimal risks of health complications in the future.

2. Close Relationship with Primary Care Physician

Going for your annual health check-up each year is the best way to establish a long-lasting relationship with your doctor. You can get answers to all your health-related questions and concerns.

3. Early Detection of Health Issues

Many illnesses may not show symptoms or can be similar to other diseases. An annual check-up allows your doctor to look for underlying issues and accurately diagnose your symptoms.

4. Chronic Disease Management

Annual check-ups can help monitor chronic conditions and ensure their optimum management.

5. Overall Enhanced Health

People who go in for regular annual health check-ups are known to show an improvement in their overall physical and mental well-being.

6. Valuable Health Inputs

While reviewing your annual health exam results, your doctor offers personalized advice and guidance for the best outcomes.

7. Reduced stress

Getting annual check-ups puts you at ease that you and your loved ones are screened for any potential serious health complications.

Who Performs an Annual Wellness Exam?

Your primary care healthcare provider usually performs an annual wellness exam. They may be:

  • Family medicine physician
  • Internal medicine physician
  • Nurse practitioner
  • Physician assistant

What to Expect During an Annual Physical Exam?

During an annual physical exam, depending on your age, health status, and risk factors, you can expect your doctor to:

  • Conduct a health check-up
  • Discuss your current and past medical history
  • Perform preventive screenings
  • Provide answers to your health concerns
  • Offer healthy lifestyle guidance

Why Do You Need an Annual Health Check-Up?

You need an annual health check-up to:

  • Ensure you are in good general health
  • Update on your immunizations
  • Address existing health issues
  • Manage chronic ailments
  • Screen out potential health risks
  • Get personalized advice on achieving optimal health standards

When to Consult a Primary Care Doctor for an Annual Check-Up

While a yearly physical exam is recommended for all adults, you must consult your primary care doctor for an annual check-up if you are:

  • Over 40 years
  • A chronic illness patient
  • At high risk of heart or other debilitating diseases
  • Family history of severe health problems

Maintain Good Health with Yearly Check-Ups at MI Express Primary Care

At MI Express Primary Care in Ann Arbor & Canton, MI, our primary care team is led by Dr. Umayr Azimi, a board-certified internal medicine physician with expertise in hospital care, occupational care, primary care, and obesity medicine.

In our primary care services, we offer comprehensive yearly check-ups to our patients, which include general screening, health prevention, and counseling. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for an annual health check-up or to learn more about our yearly check-up services in Ann Arbor & Canton, MI.

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