Regular screenings from your primary care physician are an essential part of maintaining your health and wellness. An annual wellness exam is a type of preventative care focused on maintaining wellness and identifying health issues before they occur. Don’t wait for a problem to stop you in your tracks–plan ahead to ensure your health and peace of mind.

What can you expect from an annual wellness exam? Doctors need to establish a clear picture of your overall health in order to guide you in making the best choices for your specific health goals. These exams may include:

• A traditional physical examination
• Checking your vitals
• Looking at the medical histories of yourself and your family
• Discussing your current lifestyle choices
• Screening and lab work for any concerns or predispositions you may have
• Immunizations
• Creating goals and a plan for your health

Annual wellness exams vary depending on several factors, such as age and gender. During your exam, screening may include cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes. You may also be asked about your current stress levels, activity levels, diet, and drug and alcohol use. Be open and honest with your answers so we may better serve you and your health. Always tell your doctor about any health questions or concerns you may have. When it comes to your health, being proactive is the best medicine–schedule your annual wellness exam today!

Many schools and sports require athletes to complete a physical prior to participating. This is a great way to make sure an athlete can safely play. Athletes should have a physical six weeks before the start of their season to allow for the opportunity to address an existing injury or improve conditioning prior to participation. Even if they are not required, sports physicals help to keep immunizations up to date, and provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have. Much like an annual wellness screening for adults, a school physical is reliant on medical history and a physical examination, so be prepared to discuss serious family illnesses, previous issues, past injuries, allergies, and any medications currently being taken. It is never too early to keep an eye on your health!

When working for the Department of Transportation, it is important to ensure you are in good health, as operating vehicles can affect the safety of yourself and those around you. A DOT physical is valid for up to 24 months, depending on whether the doctor feels it necessary to monitor other health conditions, such as high blood pressure, more closely.

No one wants to be responsible for negligent hiring. Employee safety is paramount, therefore some job positions may require their applicants to undergo a screening prior to being hired. This allows employers to know whether the person they hire is able to perform the job safely, and gives everyone some peace of mind. Pre-employment screenings are specific to the job, but may include background checks, drug and alcohol screenings, health screenings, and physical examinations.