A new decade is here, which means it’s time to set some new goals. Some people might want to set goals related to leading a healthier lifestyle. If that’s something you want to do, you should start by figuring out what you need to do to make that happen.
Our Director of Primary Care suggests starting your health journey by getting an annual physical exam. “If your goal is to enhance your health, getting a physical exam is a great place to start.
You may be thinking about what a physical exam is and if you need to get one each year. That depends on a few factors.
What to expect during an annual wellness exam?
Physical exams differ depending on age, gender, and past medical history. Typically, they include:
- An update on your medical history
- A vital signs check (blood pressure, heart, and respiratory rate)
- A physical examination
- Lab tests, depending on your medical history
- A vision test
- And more
Physical exams sometimes also include other tests, screenings, or evaluations.
How frequently should I get a physical exam?
There is no one answer about how frequently you should have a physical exam. It depends on many factors, such as your age, health, and medical history. If you are normally healthy, you may only need occasional physical exams, but this may vary depending on your doctor’s recommendation.
If you have risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, heart disease, or depression, you will likely need more physical exams than someone without these risk factors. Work with your primary care physician to create a schedule for physicals tailored just for you.
Examination for Children
Children need to go to the doctor regularly to check their overall health and growth. Child check-ups are a good way to track your child’s progress and ensure they are healthy. Going to a regular doctor will help keep your child healthy.
You will receive information about different topics such as childhood diseases, child safety, wellness, what to expect as your child grows, the importance of sleep, and more during a well-child check-up. Click here for a full schedule of recommended well-child check-ups from birth to 18 years old.
Some screenings are specific to boys and girls, which you should consider.
For Women
There are many screenings and tests women should have done regularly. You should consult with your doctor to see what screenings are right for you, but some examples include:
- Blood pressure screening
- Cholesterol check
- Pap smear
- Mammogram (breast cancer screenings)
- Bone density screening
- Cervical cancer screening
- Colon cancer screening
- Body mass index test
- Skin exam
- STI (sexually transmitted infection)
For Men
There are some screenings and tests that you should do regularly, depending on your age and gender. Talk to your doctor about when to have the following screenings:
- An abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
- A blood pressure screening
- A cholesterol check
- A colon cancer screening
- Depression screening
- Diabetes testing
- Obesity screening
- STI (sexually transmitted infection) testing
- Prostate cancer testing
It is also important to have a primary care physician so you can get annual exams and quick treatment for basic illnesses and accidents.
At New England DOT Physicals, we work with employers and employees to make sure people are healthy enough to work. Our office is located at 274 Main St – Suite 308 Reading MA, 01867, offers a one-stop-shop for all your occupational health and workers’ compensation needs. We have healthcare professionals who know a lot about occupational health. To do your DOT physical, you must talk to a licensed physician. To schedule dot physical exam in Massachusetts or massachusetts cdl self certification, call us today. We look forward to being your go-to workplace health partner!
