In most school districts, children must undergo an annual wellness exam before entering a new grade or playing on a sports team. Since there are no such requirements for adults, though, many people only find themselves in their doctor’s waiting room if they are ill. If you can’t remember the last time you had a wellness exam—or if it was more than 12 months ago—turn to Hillside Family Medicine LLC & Occupational Medicine. Their practice can manage the health needs of your entire family including specific screenings for men’s and women's health, vaccinations, vaccination boosters, labs, lab orders, x-ray, EKG, minor procedures and prescription management.

When it comes to your health, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The greatest possible benefit of undergoing an annual wellness exam is identifying minor health issues and treating them before they become major problems. For example, some medical conditions, including certain kinds of cancer, are relatively easy to treat in their early stages, but they don’t necessarily manifest physical symptoms until they have spread throughout the more of the body.

According to the Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease, in 2015, 444,000 people in Alaska suffered from at least one chronic disease, and 146,000 people had two or more chronic diseases. Many of these diseases are easily preventable by following your doctor’s recommendations for leading a healthy lifestyle, which you will discuss at your wellness exam.

Annual wellness visits will also help you build a rapport with your doctor. When you feel comfortable with your healthcare provider, you are more likely to discuss the health concerns bothering you the most. Additionally, your doctor will be able to monitor your vitals over time if you schedule annual visits. Doing so could help identify any trends you may need to be aware of as you age.

If you are overdue for an annual wellness exam, turn to the friendly husband-and-wife team, as well as their group of caring physicians, at Hillside Family Medicine LLC & Occupational Medicine in Anchorage, AK. Visit their website to learn more about the family medicine services they provide, as well as their hours of operation, to include Saturday hours, and call (907) 344-0200 and make an appointment today.