Annual Physicals

Protecting Your Current and Future Health

An annual physical, also known as a yearly check-up or a general health exam, is a routine visit to a primary care provider to evaluate a person’s overall health and well-being. These exams are an essential part of maintaining good health and are recommended for people of all ages. Regular exams with your provider at Star City Medical can help detect any serious health issues early on, promote healthy lifestyle choices and strengthen your relationship with your primary care provider.

What To Expect At An Annual Physical

There are three main components to a yearly check-up appointment. These include:

During your exam, Dr. Lindsey or Ken Anderson, PA-C, may ask questions about your medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries and medications. They may also ask about your family history of diseases, lifestyle habits and any concerns you may have about your health. This is a great time to ask any questions you may have. Our providers are here to guide and educate you on your health in a comfortable, judgment-free environment.

During the physical exam, your provider will measure your vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate and temperature. Your provider will also examine your ears, eyes, nose and throat, listen to your heart and lungs and palpate your abdomen to check for any signs of abnormalities.

Your provider may also recommend basic laboratory tests during your appointment, such as blood and urine tests. These tests can provide insight into your overall health and help identify any underlying health conditions that may require further attention.

Based on the results of your exam, your provider may recommend the next steps for managing a chronic condition, adjust your medications or refer you to a specialist.

Immunizations At Annual Physicals

During your exam, your provider will also ensure that you are up to date on your vaccinations, as outlined by the CDC. Some recommended vaccines include:

  • HPV

  • Shingles (for adults 50 years or older)

  • Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (for adults 50 years or older)

If you plan to travel outside of the country, your provider can help you to determine which vaccines you will need using the CDC’s vaccination guide. If a more specialized vaccine is required, Dr. Lindsey or Ken Anderson, PA-C, can refer you to a clinic to receive your immunization(s).

Geriatric Care

As your body ages, your medical needs change. You may experience difficulty walking and moving around, fighting off infections and remembering specific information. However, with a healthy lifestyle and routine preventative care, older adults can still feel good. During your yearly exam, your provider can discuss ways to manage these challenges. Hardships that elderly patients may experience include:

  • Declining physical function

  • Frailty

  • High blood pressure

  • Immobility

  • Incontinence

  • Memory loss

  • Vision and hearing loss

If you are experiencing these challenges, your provider can work with other specialists and members of your healthcare team to manage your symptoms and improve your function.

Benefits Of Annual Physicals

There are many benefits to scheduling yearly exams with your provider at Star City Medical in Salem, VA. Benefits include:

Regular physical exams can help detect health problems before they become more serious and difficult to treat. By identifying potential health issues early, our team can work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses the problem before it worsens.

For patients with chronic health conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, these exams can help your provider monitor the condition and adjust treatment plans as needed.

During your exam, our team can provide guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including exercise, diet and stress management.

These exams provide an opportunity for you to build a strong relationship with their healthcare provider, which can lead to better communication, trust and improved health outcomes.

Regular physical exams can help alleviate any anxiety or worries about your health by confirming that you are in good health, or by identifying any potential health concerns early on.

How To Prepare For Your Annual Physical

There are several ways that you can prepare for your yearly check-up appointment

  • Make a list of any questions or concerns you have about your health.

  • Bring a list of all medications, supplements and vitamins you are taking, including the dosages.

  • Wear comfortable clothing that can be easily removed if needed for the physical exam.

  • Follow any instructions from your provider regarding fasting or taking medications before the exam.

Tips For Staying Healthy

During your appointment, your provider will discuss ways in which you can stay healthy. While each patient is different, there are some steps you can take to prevent more serious health issues. These include:

  • Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables

  • Exercise regularly

  • Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol

  • Avoid tobacco products

  • Maintain a good sleep schedule

Request An Appointment For Your Annual Physical

Are you due for a check-up? Call us at (540) 375-2686 or fill out our online appointment request form to schedule an appointment at Salem Family Medicine. Whether you are an existing patient or you are new to our practice, our team is here to help guide and educate you so that you can make the best and most informed decisions about your care. We look forward to helping you and your family feel your best!

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1606 Apperson Dr.
Salem, VA 24153

(540) 375-2686

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