A necessary part of adulthood is taking better care of yourself. Annual physical wellness exams allow health care providers to get a clear understanding of your well-being and suggest changes for improvement. They also provide you the opportunity to voice any concerns you have about your health going forward. 

Why Should You Schedule Annual Physicals?

Annual wellness exams are about preventative care. Even if you’re feeling well, your provider will use these opportunities to assess your condition and run lab tests if necessary. Any problems will be detected early, making treatment faster and simpler. 

Your provider will also tell you of any potential issues and suggest ways to prevent them from becoming significant problems. 

Outside of your general health, annual physicals have insurance benefits. Most plans cover the wellness checks, so you’ll be able to ask questions and get a complete picture of your health for a minimal fee. 

In some cases, you’ll have to schedule physicals to maintain your employment. Truck drivers must pass annual wellness exams to keep their commercial driver’s license (CDL). Similarly, those who operate heavy machinery must pass a yearly physical to ensure the safety of themselves and those around them. 

What Happens During the Physical?

While every medical provider has a different routine for physicals, there are common examinations that they will run. 

Your blood pressure should be checked at least once every two years. If your pressure is consistently high, your provider will test you for Type 2 diabetes. It is prevalent among adults, especially those who are middle-aged and older. 

Your height and weight measurements are taken to determine your body mass index (BMI), which is the amount of fat you have in your body. If you have a BMI of 25 or more, your provider may suggest a weight loss regimen. Male patients might also have their waist size checked. If it’s more than 40 inches around, there’s a higher risk for heart disease and diabetes. 

To ensure your cholesterol is within safe limits, your provider might run lab tests. Those over 45 will also likely be tested for diabetes. These exams are comprehensive, examining the status of your vital organs.  

Providers will likely run cancer screenings, as men and women above 40 are at a higher risk of prostate and breast cancer, respectively. 

Whether you need a DOT examination or it’s time for your annual physical, reach out to Hillside Family Medicine LLC & Occupational Medicine in Anchorage, AK. For over 20 years, they have offered comprehensive services with care and dedication. They use only the most advanced equipment to make proper diagnoses and prescribe effective treatments. For more information on their practice areas, visit their website. To schedule wellness exams, call (907) 344-0200.