An annual physical is a preventive care visit to review your health, discuss concerns, and plan recommended screenings. You don’t need to feel sick to benefit from a checkup.

Your visit should reflect your age, medical and family history, and individual risk factors—not a standard checklist of tests for everyone.

What Does an Annual Physical Include?

Your provider may:

• Review your history: Medical conditions, surgeries, family history, medications and supplements
• Check basic measurements: Blood pressure, heart rate, height and weight.
• Perform a physical exam: Listen to your heart and lungs, and examine other areas as appropriate
• Discuss health concerns: New symptoms, changes in your health or medication questions.

The visit also provides time to discuss depression, anxiety, diet, exercise, and alcohol and tobacco use. Be open about concerns that affect your daily life.

Cancer Screenings

Your provider may review whether you’re due for:

• Breast cancer screening
• Cervical cancer screening
• Colorectal cancer screening

These screenings follow their own schedules and may require a separate appointment. For many people, Pap or HPV testing is needed every few years rather than annually.

Prostate cancer screening requires a discussion about its potential benefits and harms; it isn’t an automatic part of every physical. A pelvic exam also isn’t routinely necessary for everyone without symptoms.

Vaccinations and Prevention

Your provider can review your vaccination history and recommend preventive care suited to your needs. The visit is also an opportunity to discuss practical steps toward healthier habits.

How Often Should You Get a Physical?

The right schedule depends on your age, health history and risk factors. Some adults benefit from yearly visits; others may need a different interval. Ask your provider how often to schedule preventive care.

Don’t wait for your next physical to discuss new or worsening symptoms.

How to Prepare

Bring:

• A list of medications, supplements and allergies
• Relevant medical records and recent test results
• Home blood pressure or blood sugar readings, if requested
• Questions and symptoms you want to discuss

Ask the office whether any planned testing requires preparation, such as fasting.

Is a Physical the Same as a Medicare Wellness Visit?

No. A Medicare Annual Wellness Visit focuses on health risks and a personalized prevention plan. It does not include a routine physical exam.

Original Medicare generally does not cover routine physicals. Confirm your coverage and any potential charges before scheduling.

Schedule Your Preventive Care Visit

Make time for your health. Schedule a primary care appointment with tru Primary & Urgent Care to discuss your concerns and recommended preventive care.

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