Regardless of whether you’re under the weather, it’s important to schedule routine visits with a primary care physician. They won’t only provide relief when you’re sick, but also administer exams to catch any problems before they compromise your health. According to the team at Bland County Medical Clinic in Bastian, VA, knowing more about common medical exams, and what to expect during each will help reduce any pre-exam jitters. 

Below, the staff at this local clinic discusses the expectations you should have of three different medical exams:

• Regular Physical: At some point, everyone has a physical exam. The most common type of check-up normally entails a thorough inspection of the throat, nose, ears, eyes, and head. The main objective is to make sure there are no physical ailments impacting your senses and to catch problems early. Tests are typically administered by primary care doctors, licensed nurse practitioners, and pediatricians. 
• Executive Physical: These diagnostic exams are often administered when a person has exhibited symptoms of poor health. Testing could include full-body CAT scans, chest X-rays, urinalysis, and gender-specific checkups. The overall goal is to get to the bottom of what’s ailing you. Tests are run by trained laboratory technicians who are qualified to use the medical equipment. The results are then given to your regular primary care doctor or physicians who can provide specialized treatment. 
• Pre-Employment Medical Clearance: Many employers require potential hires to undergo pre-employment medical exams. This serves as an insurance policy of sorts, making sure the individual is healthy enough to be a productive employee. Depending on the job, the test could include urinalysis to screen for substance abuse, as well as other aspects of a regular physical.