Annual Checkup Specialist

Why is it Important to be Seen on a Yearly Basis?

Annual checkups are designed to help uncover potential health concerns before they become major problems. It is also a way for the doctor to monitor existing health conditions. Keeping a close watch over conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and COPD will keep them from becoming worse. Progressive conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders can also be monitored and their progression slowed. Annual checkups are a great way to ensure the patient is maintaining a healthy weight and living a positive lifestyle. During an annual checkup, the doctor can point a patient's strengths and weaknesses, helping them to keep on track when it comes to good health and well-being.

What is Included in an Annual Checkup?

• Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature)
• Physical examination of major body systems
• Basic laboratory tests 
• Age-appropriate preventive screenings
• Immunization updates
• Discussion of health concerns and lifestyle factors
• Medication review
• Planning for future preventive care

What are the Benefits of Early Detection?

During an annual wellness exam, many health conditions can be uncovered including breast cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes, heart conditions, and other life-threatening illnesses and diseases. Early detection can actually save a person's life. When caught in its earliest stages, certain health conditions will respond better to treatment. There will also be more treatment options to choose from. As a condition advances, the number of viable treatment options quickly diminishes. With today's advancements in technology, doctors can identify potential health problems before they begin to exhibit symptoms. This offers the patient and the doctor and advantage when it comes to effective treatment options.