What is usually included in an annual physical exam?

An annual physical exam typically includes a review of your medical history, vital signs assessment, physical examination of various body systems, and may include additional tests or screenings based on your age, gender, and medical history.

Is an annual exam the same as a physical?

Yes, an annual exam is another term used to refer to a physical exam. Both terminologies are commonly used interchangeably to describe the comprehensive health check-up conducted once a year.

Primary Care Health Assessment

Annual Physicals (Annual Checkup)

An annual physical exam, also known as an annual checkup or wellness visit, is a step toward a healthier life. Annual physicals enable you to identify potential health risks, detect early signs of illness, and maintain overall well-being. Our experienced team of primary care doctors near you at AllCare is dedicated to offering personalized care and thorough health assessments, including cardiovascular health evaluations. We perform health screenings, provide immunizations, and guide you through every stage of your annual physical examination to ensure the best possible outcomes.

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Annual Physical Exams Matter

Why Do I Need to Get an Annual Physical Exam?

Annual physical exams are vital for maintaining optimal health. By undergoing regular check-ups, you empower yourself with crucial insights into your well-being. These exams allow our healthcare professionals to assess your overall health status, detect any underlying health risks that require urgent care, and address them proactively.

By conducting a thorough health evaluation of your medical history, vital signs, and laboratory tests, our team can identify early signs of illness and provide timely interventions, increasing the chances of successful treatment and improved outcomes. AllCare ensures you receive the highest quality care and attention to promote well-being.

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What Happens at a Physical (Annual Checkup)

A physical examination typically includes a review of your medical history, measurements of vital signs (such as blood pressure and heart rate), and visual and tactile assessments of your body. Depending on your specific needs and concerns, it may involve additional procedures such as listening to your heart and lungs.

Key aspects of a yearly physical exam may include:

Basic measurements: Height, weight, and body mass index (BMI)
Vital signs check: Blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate
Visual examination: Checking skin appearance, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and throat
Palpation (feeling by touch): Examining lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, and groin, feeling the abdomen for tenderness or abnormalities
Auscultation (listening with a stethoscope): Checking heart sounds and lung sounds
Reflex testing: Checking knee jerk and other reflexes

Health Tests for Your Physical Exam

Blood Tests

Blood tests analyze the different elements of your blood, such as cholesterol and blood sugar levels and complete blood count (CBC), which are vital in assessing overall health. By evaluating these markers, healthcare professionals can identify potential risk factors, monitor existing conditions, and detect early signs of many illnesses.

Health History Evaluation

This evaluation allows healthcare providers to gain insights into your past and current medical conditions, surgeries, medications, allergies, and family medical history. Understanding your health background enables them to tailor preventive measures and screenings to your needs, ensuring a personalized approach to your healthcare.

Blood Pressure Measurement

Measuring blood pressure is a routine test performed during our appointments for an annual physical near you. High blood pressure can indicate underlying health issues, including cardiovascular problems. Regular monitoring helps identify hypertension early on.

Vision and Hearing Screening

Basic vision and hearing screenings are commonly conducted during annual physical exams. These screenings evaluate visual clarity and identify potential hearing difficulties. Detecting vision or hearing impairments early allows us to begin prompt interventions and appropriate management, ensuring optimal sensory health.

Physical Examination

During the annual checkup, your primary care doctor completes a comprehensive physical examination. This evaluation assesses vital signs like heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature. Additionally, your healthcare provider will carefully examine your body systems, including the heart, lungs, abdomen, and skin, to identify any irregularities or indications of potential health concerns that require urgent care.

Who Needs a Physical Exam?

It’s important for everyone, regardless of age or background, to have regular annual physical exams. These exams provide a thorough health assessment and help catch potential health problems early. While a general physical exam is beneficial for everyone, specific tests and screenings may be recommended based on factors like age, gender, and medical history.

Children & Adolescents: They need regular check-ups to monitor growth, update immunizations, and catch any developmental issues early.
Adults (18–50): Preventive screenings and lifestyle assessments help detect potential health issues and manage chronic conditions.
Older Adults (50+): Age-related screenings, medication management, and fall-prevention checks are crucial for maintaining health and independence.
Individuals with Chronic Conditions: Frequent exams track symptoms, adjust treatments, and help manage hereditary risk factors.
People Starting a New Exercise or Diet: A baseline evaluation ensures any new regimen is safe and aligned with individual health goals.
Those Experiencing Unusual Symptoms: Early detection and prompt treatment of unexplained pain, weight changes, or fatigue can improve outcomes.

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How Long Does an Annual Physical Take?

Most annual physicals take approximately 30 minutes to an hour. However, the exact duration can vary based on factors such as your overall health, the complexity of your medical history, and whether additional tests or screenings are needed. If your primary care physician identifies concerns that require more in-depth evaluation, the appointment may be longer or be followed by visits.

Are Annual Physical Exams Covered by Insurance?

In many cases, annual physical exams are fully covered by insurance as part of preventive care benefits. However, exact coverage can differ based on your specific plan, network requirements, and any necessary additional tests or screenings during your visit. Before scheduling your checkup, it’s wise to:

Contact your insurer to confirm if annual physicals are included under preventive care.
Ask if copays, deductibles, or coinsurance apply.
Make sure your chosen healthcare provider is in your plan’s network.

AllCare Family Medicine accepts a wide range of major insurance plans, and our team can assist you in verifying whether your physical exam is covered.

Online Doctor Visits and Telehealth Services

Experience the convenience of telehealth appointments at AllCare. Our telemedicine services are designed to provide you with seamless access to healthcare without the need to leave your home. Whether you need an online doctor’s appointment for immediate or primary care, AllCare’s got you covered. With our online telehealth services currently available to individuals located in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., you can connect with our experienced urgent and primary care physicians via secure video calls.

At AllCare, we are expanding our virtual healthcare access to all services previously offered in person. This includes:

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Frequently Asked Questions About Annual Exam

01 Do I need an annual physical exam if I feel healthy?

Yes, even if you feel healthy, an annual physical exam is important for preventive care and early detection of potential health issues that require urgent care. It allows healthcare professionals to assess your overall health status, identify risk factors, and provide guidance to maintain your well-being.

02 How often should I schedule an annual physical exam?

Ideally, an annual physical exam should be scheduled once a year, as the name suggests. However, the frequency may vary based on individual circumstances and healthcare provider recommendations.

03 Can I discuss specific health concerns or lifestyle choices during an annual physical exam?

Absolutely! An annual physical exam is an excellent opportunity to discuss any health concerns, lifestyle choices, or questions you may have with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance, offer recommendations, and address any issues or doubts you may have.

04 How much does an annual physical cost?

The cost of an annual physical exam can vary depending on several factors, such as specific tests or screenings performed and your insurance coverage. The cost of your annual physical is often covered by insurance as part of preventive care, and AllCare accepts most insurance plans. For self-pay individuals, costs can vary. It’s best to contact AllCare directly for self-pay pricing details and payment options.

05 What health screenings are included in a physical, and who should do them?

Several specific health screenings may be recommended during a physical, depending on age and risk factors. Women aged 40 or those with a family history of breast cancer should have regular mammograms, while women 60 and older benefit from bone density scans to check for osteoporosis. For colon cancer, individuals 45 and above may undergo stool tests (such as fecal occult blood tests or Cologuard) or a colonoscopy. Current smokers—or those who have quit within the past 15 years—between the ages of 55 and 74 should consider a low-dose CT scan to screen for lung cancer, and men aged 65 to 75 with a history of smoking may receive a one-time ultrasound to detect abdominal aortic aneurysm. Prostate cancer screening, involving a PSA blood test and digital rectal exam, generally begins at age 50 (or earlier if at higher risk), and adults 20 and older can have their cholesterol levels checked to assess the risk of heart disease.

STATES WHERE WE SERVE PRIMARY AND URGENT CARE

Annual Physicals in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.

At AllCare, we’re proud to deliver exceptional primary and urgent care to residents across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. From bustling city centers to serene suburban neighborhoods, our clinics are strategically placed for your convenience and care. Experience top-tier annual physicals in your community with AllCare, where your health is our priority.

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MARYLAND

WASHINGTON DC

Prioritize your health today: schedule your annual physical exam

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Our related healthcare services extend beyond immediate care to include preventive care such as routine physical exams, chronic disease management for conditions like diabetes, and specialty care referrals for more complex health issues.