Annual wellness visits provide a structured opportunity to review your overall health, consider risk factors, and plan next steps for the year ahead. At River Family Health, these visits are prevention-focused and designed to support long-term well-being across every stage of life. Preparing in a few simple ways can help you and your care team use the time effectively and ensure that your questions are addressed.
Understand the Purpose of an Annual Wellness Visit
An annual wellness visit is intended to take a broad view of your health. Rather than centering on a single problem, the discussion may include personal and family history, medications and supplements, lifestyle factors, and age-appropriate preventive care. This approach helps establish a baseline, identify potential concerns early, and align on goals for the coming year. To learn more about our approach to prevention, visit our Annual Wellness Visits page.
Gather Practical Information Before You Arrive
- Medication and supplement list: Include dosages and frequency. If you use a pill organizer or health app, bring a recent printout or screenshot for reference.
- Medical history highlights: Note prior surgeries, hospitalizations, allergies, and any changes since your last visit.
- Vaccination records: If available, bring the most recent information so your provider can discuss recommended updates.
- Questions and priorities: Jot down items you do not want to forget—sleep, energy, stress, activity level, nutrition, or other concerns you wish to address.
Consider Preventive Screenings and Labs
Depending on age, risk factors, and history, your provider may recommend general screenings or laboratory tests. The timing and specifics vary by individual; your care team will help determine what is appropriate for you. Reputable public health resources offer background on common preventive topics if you would like context in advance:
Bring Everyday Context, Not Just Symptoms
Wellness is more than numbers on a page. Share practical details about daily life that influence health—work schedule, sleep routines, caregiving responsibilities, activity patterns, or changes in appetite and mood. This context helps tailor recommendations that are realistic and sustainable.
Clarify Follow-Up Plans
Before you leave, confirm any follow-up steps, such as referrals, education materials, or a timeframe for re-checking labs. Many patients find it helpful to schedule the next wellness visit in advance and set reminders. If you manage an ongoing condition, ask whether a separate appointment focused on that topic would be useful. You can review the breadth of care we offer on our Services page, including acute care, women’s and men’s health, mental health, and complex chronic care.
A Note on Chronic Conditions
If you are living with a long-term condition, an annual wellness visit is a good moment to confirm that your broader care plan remains aligned with your goals. Discuss whether anything has changed in symptoms, daily function, or self-management routines. If additional support would be helpful, your provider can coordinate appropriate next steps or a focused chronic care appointment.
Logistics That Make the Day Easier
- Arrive a few minutes early to complete any remaining forms or updates.
- Bring a photo ID and insurance card, as applicable.
- If you track blood pressure, glucose, or activity at home, consider bringing recent readings.
- If you prefer, a trusted support person can attend to help take notes and discuss plans.
Preparation turns an annual wellness visit into a meaningful planning session—one that reflects your individual priorities and supports proactive, prevention-focused care throughout the year.
