Planning for your annual wellness physical, may take time, but it is time well spent when you show up prepared for the visit with your healthcare provider.
Before you go, make a list of all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements you take. If you are seeing a healthcare provider for the first time, try to have a list of any surgeries and recent health screenings you have had.
Fill out required paperwork in advance; either on your portal, if your physician offers this option, or by submitting hard copy forms. This gives you time to gather dates and family health history information. Ask when you make your appointment if you need to be fasting (not eating for at least 6 hours) for lab work.
Your doctor will ask about your current condition, habits, appetite, sleep patterns, pain, and if you drink or smoke. You will also be given a mental health screening to assess your level of happiness and your emotional wellbeing.
Your healthcare provider will obtain your weight, pulse, respirations, oxygen level, and blood pressure. They will listen to your heart, lungs, and abdomen and perform an examination.
It is very important to be truthful with your healthcare provider. There is nothing you can tell them that will come as a shock; they have heard it all so be honest. If you are having pain or don’t feel well, tell your doctor. This is an opportunity for you to find out the reason for your discomfort. If you find unhealthy habits, like drinking alcohol excessively or smoking have become an issue, talk to your physician during this visit.
Remember to talk to your doctor about preventive screenings you may need. Your doctor’s office can schedule these for you. Go over your medication list and make sure you have current prescriptions for the medications you need. Be sure and ask how you will receive the results for any tests you have; either by mail, on a portal, or by a phone call from your healthcare provider. If you are comfortable with your physician, go ahead and schedule your next wellness physical for the following year. Thank you for taking care of YOU!!
Still have questions about what is covered in your preventive physical or need help finding a new physician? Contact the EMAC MedLine at 866-992-EMAC (3622).
