When was the last time you went to the doctor for an annual visit or a preventative screening?
Did you know it’s important to schedule an annual visit with your primary care physician regardless of your age or perceived health? The importance of this visit is to establish baselines for your height, weight, bloodwork and any lifestyle changes that may have occurred. Annual visits also prompt you to discuss and schedule appropriate preventative screenings.
Preventative screenings guide you toward living a healthier lifestyle, help prevent diseases and illnesses and potentially catch any disease or illness as early as possible. Remember: Preventative care visits do not just pertain to your medical health. They also include regular dental and vision appointments to ensure good gum and eye health.
As you age, your annual preventative screenings may change, so it is important to know when you should begin getting certain tests and procedures. Reference the chart below to determine the age and frequency at which you should start certain screenings.
|
Adult Wellness Screenings |
|
| Screening | Frequency |
| Physical | Annually; visit should include blood pressure screenings, bloodwork and mental health |
| Cholesterol | Ideally checked annually along with your physical bloodwork |
| Immunizations | Stay up to date with all required immunizations/vaccines |
| Dental screenings | Annually or every six months (pregnancy and other medical conditions may recommend more frequent screenings); visit should include cleanings and imaging |
| Breast cancer screening | Annually or biannually beginning at age 40 or based on risk factors |
| Cervical cancer screening | Every 3 years, beginning at age 21 |
| Colorectal cancer screening | Annually beginning at age 50 |
| Other screenings | Family history of illnesses: annually for certain cancers, diseases, heart conditions and diabetes
Fall prevention: annually for those 65 and older or living in assisted living community Vision testing: annually and/or if affected by other illness or medication |
Before scheduling any of the above screenings, refer to your insurance to know what costs will be covered. Also, consult with your primary care physician to see what screenings you should be getting on a regular basis. Your primary care physician is there to help and support you, so don’t be afraid to ask them what your next steps should be on the road to a long, healthy life!
|
Child Wellness Screenings |
|
| Screening | Frequency |
| Physical | Annually; visit should include blood pressure screenings, bloodwork, height and weight |
| Immunizations | Keep up to date with all required immunizations/vaccines |
| Dental screening | Twice a year (every six months); visit should include cleaning, fluoride treatment and oral health screening |
| Depression screening | The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for all children ages 12 and older; this may be done as part of the annual physical |
| Other screenings | Developmental and behavioral assessment: annual from infancy up to age 17 |
by Alexandra Hoppman