Why You Should Have Regular Physicals
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It’s a new year, yet many Americans find themselves scheduling an appointment with their primary care doctor only when they notice something wrong or an alarming symptom they didn’t previously have. After all, why visit a doctor when you’re in perfectly good health?
While this is helpful when it comes to diagnosing health issues, it is just as important to have regular check-ups with your doctor. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as MedlinePlus have some great insight on the importance of having regular exams. Regular checkups are separate from any other doctor’s visit for sickness or injury. Regular health exams and tests can help find problems before they start. They also can help find problems early, when your chances for treatment and cure are better. In addition to physical exams, these visits focus on preventive care, such as:
Screening tests, which are medical tests to check for diseases early, when they may be easier to treat.
Services, like vaccines (shots), that improve your health by preventing diseases and other health problems.
Dental cleanings.
Education and counseling to help you make informed health decisions.
Here’s how keeping these regular appointments can help your doctor to provide you with the best care possible.
Health Screenings
Whether it’s because of your age, gender, or family history—if you are at an increased risk for certain health conditions, it is important for you to have the screening that is done during wellness exams. This way, your primary doctor can notice any changes in your health since your last visit with the hopes of catching any warning signs early on.
According to the CDC, you should be getting the following tests and screenings regularly:
Cervical cancer
Cholesterol and other blood tests
Colorectal Cancer
Oral Health
HIV/AIDS
Viral Hepatitis
Monitoring Health Risks and Managing
When it comes to determining your risk of developing health complications, there are certain factors that your doctor would keep in mind and monitor regularly. The top health risk factors include:
Age
Sex
Genetics and family history
Physical activity level
Tobacco use
Alcohol consumption
Referring You to Specialists
If your doctor does notice anything that is a cause for concern during your exam, they can refer you out to the right specialist who can help you with the next steps. With many health conditions, specialty care is necessary when it comes to proper diagnosis, treatment, and management.
With almost 80 physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners in nearly 20 specialties, CCH is committed to your well being right here at home. If you have been putting off a visit to your doctor for a regular checkup, contact them; they can help weigh your personal healthcare risk and avoid further delayed diagnoses. Visit www.cchwyo.org/findadoc to find your provider or clinic.
For medical emergencies, call 911. If you are in crisis and need to talk to a counselor, call the Crisis Line at 307-688-5555, or call or text 988..
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/about/preventive-care/index.html
