Wellness Appointments

Your Annual Exam

You may not realize it, but getting your annual physical is the key to your best health. But maybe you feel fine. Maybe you don’t think you have the time to go to the doctor if you’re not sick. Don’t let these excuses keep you from getting the most valuable kind of treatment: preventative treatment.

5 Frequently Asked Questions and Misconceptions about Annual Exams

I feel fine. Why should I go to the doctor if I don't feel sick?

If you haven’t had any major health issues in the past year, that’s great! But that’s no reason to skip the annual wellness appointment. It’s commonly what you don’t see or feel that is important. You’ve heard the phrase, “An ounce of prevention is with a pound of cure,” right? Well, it’s true. The preventative strategies your provider will discuss with you can help you keep from getting sick in the first place. Plus, he or she will make sure you are up to date on vital health checks, vaccinations, and screenings.

I don’t have a history of major illness in my family, so I’m good.

That’s great! But again, no reason to skip your annual wellness appointment. Many life-threatening illnesses have no tie to genetics. These yearly check-ins with your primary care provider will not only identify potential health issues sooner, but they may also stop the progression of disease.

I don’t seem to get along very well with my provider. Isn’t it better to not go?

Thankfully, you have a choice when it comes to your primary care provider. If you didn’t exactly hit it off with a certain provider, establish a new relationship with a different one. Respect and rapport are essential components of a successful patient-provider relationship. If you don’t feel comfortable, you will be less likely to fully disclose health information to your provider, which could have serious consequences.

I can’t afford this! Can I?

Most insurances cover annual exams. This is preventative care and will save them (and you) bigger healthcare costs down the line.

I don’t have time.

And you do have time for a major health issue later? Of course you don’t! Taking the time now to make sure you stay healthy is well worth it and will save you time, energy, and money down the road. Think of yourself, as well as those who depend on you. There are a lot of reasons to stay healthy. There are a lot of reasons to go to your annual wellness visit.