When your New Year’s resolution is to start off with a good grasp on your health, it can be overwhelming trying to make sure all your medical needs are tended to by the end of December. However, while there may be a lot to consider, most important medical matters can be taken care of with just one simple visit with a physician. To help you embrace better health, here is a simple checklist to review with your medical provider before the end of the year.

5 Health Matters to Review Before the New Year

1. Annual Physical

If you haven’t had a physical within the past year, now’s a good time to go through the evaluation with your medical provider. During this routine check-up, your physician will review your vital measurements, such as weight and blood pressure, and check other general aspects of your health. If any concerns are present, this wellness exam allows your provider to catch and treat problems before they cause further complications.  

2. Screening Tests

Depending on your age and overall health, you may be due for a mammogram, colorectal cancer screening, bone density test, or more general lab tests, such as those that screen for high cholesterol and diabetes risks. While these screenings are optional, they allow problems to be caught in their early stages when treatment is typically more successful.  

3. Flu Shot

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting the annual flu shot each year in October before the projected flu season kicks off. However, if you haven’t been immunized yet, it’s not too late to get a shot. Since flu season can sometimes extend into May, getting vaccinated before the end of the year can help prevent you from catching the virus or lessen the severity of your symptoms if you do.

4. Prescriptions

If you take any prescription medications on a regular basis, it’s a good idea to review them all with your physician. You might find that new solutions are available that can offer improved results, be more cost-effective, or reduce unpleasant side effects.

5. Mental Health

While occasional changes in mood are normal, chronic stress and depression can be debilitating and have a lasting effect on other aspects of your health. Your medical provider can review your symptoms and determine if lifestyle changes, therapy, or medication may help.

As the holiday season picks up, there’s no time like the present to schedule your end-of-the-year wellness exam. Fortunately,  Hillside Family Medicine makes it easy for Anchorage, AK, residents to schedule check-ups. Staffed with a team of skilled professionals, this medical provider can help pinpoint and treat both minor and major health issues, perform essential screening tests at their in-house lab, and address mental health concerns. To learn more about the compassionate care this family medicine practice offers, visit their website. For appointments, call (907) 344-0200.