Annual Physical Specialist

Why do I need an annual physical?

Many patients are tempted to skip their annual physical when they feel great, but the best way to stay healthy over the years is by getting a yearly checkup. When you see your provider at Midwest Regional Health Services every year, they can detect early signs of a developing health problem.

Early detection is essential for your health. You can prevent chronic disease from developing further when it’s still in an early stage. Many chronic diseases don’t cause symptoms until they’re in an advanced stage. That means you feel great even though a disease may be slowly damaging your blood vessels, heart, or nerves.

What should I expect during my annual physical?

Your annual physical begins with a check of your weight and vital signs, as well as a review of any health issues you may have had since your last checkup. Then your provider performs a thorough physical exam and may order blood tests, depending on your age, overall health, and the results of your exam.

A physical exam for adult women and men may include any of these services:

• Women’s health (pelvic exam, Pap smear, birth control)
• Men’s health (testicular exam, prostate cancer screening)
• STD testing and treatment
• Health risk assessment
• Screening for chronic diseases
• Medication management
• Immunizations
• Vision and hearing tests
• Weight-loss management
• Mental health assessment 

During your annual physical, your provider also devotes time to talking with you and answering any questions you may have about your health. 

What immunizations and health screenings might I need? 

As part of your annual physical, your provider at Midwest Regional Health Services lets you know if you might need any immunizations. They also talk with you about health screenings that are recommended based on your age and risk factors.

Adults often need immunizations such as:

• Yearly flu shots
• Shingles vaccine
• Pneumococcal vaccine
• Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis boosters

Health screenings recommended for adults include:

• Mammogram to screen for breast cancer
• Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer
• Colorectal cancer screening
• Prostate cancer screening
• Osteoporosis screening
• Full body screening for skin cancer 

Your provider lets you know the age at which you should have your first screening and how often you should have repeat testing based on your risk for disease.

If you have questions or it’s time to schedule your annual physical, call Midwest Regional Health Services or book an appointment online.