Why It’s Important to Have Regular Check-Ups
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Why You Should Have Regular Checkups
Many Americans find themselves scheduling an appointment with their primary care doctor when they notice something wrong or an alarming symptom they didn’t previously have. While this is helpful when it comes to diagnosing health issues, it is just as important to have regular check-ups with your doctor. Although most healthy adults don’t need to see their doctor every year, it is advised that you have a physical exam at least every other year.
Here’s how keeping these regular appointments can help your doctor to provide you with the best care possible.
Health Screenings
Whether it’s because of your age, gender, or family history—if you are at an increased risk for certain health conditions, it is important for you to have the screening that is done during wellness exams. This way, your primary doctor can notice any changes in your health since your last visit with the hopes of catching any warning signs early on.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you should be getting the following tests and screenings regularly:
- Breast cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Cholesterol and other blood tests
- Colorectal Cancer
- High Blood Pressure
- Oral Health
- Prostate Cancer
- Skin Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Viral Hepatitis
Monitoring Health Risks and Managing
When it comes to determining your risk of developing health complications, there are certain factors that your doctor would keep in mind and monitor regularly. The top health risk factors include:
- Age
- Sex
- Genetics and family history
- Physical activity level
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
Referring You to Specialists
If your doctor does notice anything that is a cause for concern during your exam, they can refer you out to the right specialist who can help you with the next steps. With many health conditions, specialty care is necessary when it comes to proper diagnosis, treatment, and management.
Don’t delay your medical care.
If you have been putting off a visit to your doctor for a regular checkup, contact them; they can help weigh your personal healthcare risk and avoid further delayed diagnoses. Schedule an appointment with a family medicine provider online here or call 307-688-6000.
