At Colony Springs Medical Center, we believe the best way to protect your health is by preventing disease. An annual physical exam is one of the most effective tools to achieve this goal.
While many people only see a doctor when they feel unwell, an annual checkup has a broader purpose: keeping you healthy over time.
What Does an Annual Physical Exam Include?
This type of visit is a comprehensive review of your current health status. During the appointment, the doctor evaluates different physical, emotional, and functional aspects, which may vary depending on your age, sex, medical history, and lifestyle. It generally includes:
- Review of vital signs: blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, and temperature
- General physical exam: assessment of the heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, ears, eyes, and throat
- Weight and height check: monitoring your body mass index (BMI)
- Review of medical history: including personal and family background
- Lifestyle questions: diet, physical activity, alcohol and tobacco use, sleep, stress, and more
- Recommendations for lab work or imaging tests if needed
- Preventive guidance: vaccines, screenings, or lifestyle changes tailored to you
Why Is It Important to Do It Every Year?
An annual physical exam is more than just a routine—it’s a preventive tool that helps detect conditions before they become serious.
Here are some reasons not to delay it:
- Early disease detection
Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol can develop without obvious symptoms. Timely exams allow for early diagnosis and treatment. - Monitoring existing conditions
If you live with a chronic illness, annual checkups help adjust treatments, track progress, and prevent complications. - Keeping vaccines and screenings up to date
Based on your age and medical history, your doctor may recommend vaccines or preventive tests such as mammograms, prostate exams, or cholesterol screenings. - Comprehensive review of your emotional and mental health
Stress, anxiety, and depression can also be addressed during these visits. Mental health is a key part of overall well-being.
At Colony Springs Medical Center, Your Health Comes First
Our medical team is committed to preventive care, active listening, and personalized follow-up. An annual physical exam is a great opportunity to ask questions, clear up concerns, and build a health plan designed around your needs.
