One in four Americans regularly skip health checks like wellness exams because they “feel” healthy, but this isn’t always the case.
Booking annual wellness exams protects your well-being and gives you peace of mind. But if you’ve thought wellness equals yoga or meditation, you’re missing out on a crucial part of healthcare.
If you’re unfamiliar with wellness exams, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s the answer to your burning question: “What is a wellness exam?”
What Is a Wellness Exam?
A wellness exam is a comprehensive health assessment completed by healthcare providers.
During the exam, the physician will evaluate the patient’s overall health and address any current issues. One of the biggest benefits of wellness exams is they act as a preventative measure and, if there is an issue, the doctor can diagnose a problem early on. It also lets healthcare providers guide you to make choices to promote a healthier lifestyle.
What Is Included in a Wellness Exam
During the annual physical exam, the physical will conduct a physical health check-up by analyzing your vitals and BMI. The physical will also examine your personal or family medical history to get a better understanding of your health.
Doctors often conduct preventative care exams like screenings relevant to age, risk, and gender. For instance, females will get a mammogram and pap smear. Other common screenings are useful to manage cholesterol, blood pressure, or diabetes.
At the end of the session, the physician will create or update a list of prescriptions and providers if necessary. They will also write down risk factors or treatment options, so you receive personalized health advice.
How to Prepare for Your Wellness Exam
Being prepared for your wellness exam gives your physician a clear account of your well-being. If you take any medication, for example, list it alongside the dosages, especially if you have a chronic condition. This prevents errors that could lead to dangerous medication combinations outside of your PCP.
You should also gather your medical history.
The same goes for your family’s history as certain diseases like diabetes can be hereditary. Write down any specialists you’ve recently seen or if you’ve discovered new symptoms in a current condition. Being as accurate as possible is useful for your wellness exam, especially if you see a new physician.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed in the doctor’s office, which is why you should bring any questions you may have. For instance, if you don’t like a current medication or are struggling with a particular health issue, inform the physician. Voicing your queries helps your doctor understand your concerns and will lead you to a viable solution.
Schedule Your Wellness Exam Today
Now that you know the answer to “what is a wellness exam?”, it’s time to schedule one for yourself and your family.
At Sandpoint Family Health Center, we are a dedicated team that offers compassionate care for everyone in the family. If you’re ready to book your wellness exam, we’d love to hear from you. Schedule an appointment today.
