Many reformed junk food munchers and coach potatoes decide to invest in their health to attain more energy, a longer lifespan, and a greater sense of well-being. Among the individuals who take their health seriously, many are beginning to acknowledge that staying truly healthy involves much more than clean eating and maintaining a regular exercise routine. As such, adopting a comprehensive approach to your overall health will guarantee you stay at peak health, physically and mentally.
An essential piece of the comprehensive healthcare puzzle is attending annual physicals with your primary healthcare provider. Relying on the duo of nutrient-rich meals and working out won’t cut it if becoming the picture of health clears the top of your priority list.
For those fitness fanatics in-the-making who shudder at the thought of incoming medical costs, have no fear. If you have health insurance under Obamacare, you’re in luck. Many ACA compliant health plans cover annual physicals. And for many adults with no pre-existing health conditions, visiting a physician once a year is enough to make sure you are on track to becoming your healthiest self.
Benefits of attending yearly physicals
Overall health assessment
When you visit a healthcare provider, especially for the first time, you may undergo a series of tests related to your specific family health history. These tests and screenings scan for any underlying health problems that may not present noticeable symptoms.
The results of these tests can aid your doctor in making recommendations for follow-up care, should you need it. Additionally, these medical professionals can prescribe lifestyle change directives that’ll benefit your health.
Prevent major health issues
Many of the tests you undergo during an annual health exam work to get ahead of any potential problems lurking in the shadows of your family history. This reason alone should be enough of a driving force to book a doctor’s appointment. Because specific health conditions can wreak havoc on your body’s delicate systems without leaving any symptoms in their wake, annual physicals are virtually non-negotiable for the health-conscious reader.
In addition to granting you peace-of-mind, catching any major health issues early on can save you money in the long-run should a problem unfortunately arise.
Update your vaccinations
Perhaps now more than ever, folks are considering the importance of keeping their vaccination lists current. Vaccinations aren’t just for kindergarteners anxiously awaiting their first day of school. Adults also need to keep their vaccines up to date to prevent serious diseases.
Additionally, certain vaccines may be necessary for those traveling overseas. So if you’re considering taking a trip to enhance your mental health, talk to your doctors about travel vaccinations to protect your physical health.
Continuous medical records
Another benefit to having a family physician for annual visits is the access you’ll have to your full medical history. When you visit the same office each year, you can eliminate the need to remember every procedure or vaccination. By solidifying your primary care physician, you can request reminders about scheduling preventative procedures, like mammograms, colonoscopies, or immunizations.
To fully maximize the benefits of a primary care physician, be sure to update your doctor of any changes to your medication, mental health. Additionally, you’ll need to give your PCP a run-down on your family history. annual appointments to enable your doctors to provide you with the best possible care.
Established relationship with your doctor
Individuals who have an established relationship with their physician are more likely to visit them regularly and trust their medical advice. At your yearly visits, the goal is usually preventative care and overall wellness, so this gives your doctor a chance to get to know you and listen to your concerns.
After a time, your doctor will come to know you personally and be better suited to address any shifts in your mood or physical appearance that could indicate larger potential issues.
Healthcare personalization
When you visit a doctor annually, your physician can help you focus on your most important health areas. As a bonus, your doctor can provide you with everything you need to know, from the role of your family history, to diet and exercise information. Additionally, your physician can refer you to specialists for assistance with more specific medical concerns if you have them.
Conclusion
Incorporating yearly physicals into your healthcare plan is crucial to your overall wellness. Annual visits allow you to keep your records current and update your doctor on any changes over the last year that might affect your health. When sitting down to make a wellness plan for the new year, add an annual check-up to your list.