5 Important Benefits of an Annual Physical

To some, visiting a doctor's office is an enjoyable experience, and others dread going. Whether you like going to the doctor or hate it, it can't be denied that getting an annual physical has numerous benefits.

The experienced urgent care and primary care specialists at Rapid City Healthcare in Irving, Texas provide annual physicals to evaluate your overall health. Here are five important benefits of getting an annual physical.

1. Get a general picture of your overall health

Your doctor can clearly understand your general health from a comprehensive physical. They will measure your blood pressure, heart rate, weight, height, and breathing ability. You may also give a small blood sample for testing to check on your cholesterol, blood glucose, and other important levels.

The results of your blood tests and vitals give your doctor a clear picture of your overall health. Sometimes annual physicals provide the information necessary to diagnose health issues and diseases early, even before you have any symptoms and when the issue is the easiest to treat.

2. Update vaccines

Most vaccines are not a one-time shot, and it's usually during annual physicals that individuals get their booster shots. Some common shots given at physicals are the tetanus shot, the flu shot, the HPV shot, and the COVID-19 shot.

3. Manage medication

If you need a new prescription or you'd like to switch medication, you can talk things over with your physician during your annual physical. Your physician can suggest medications after running tests and getting a clear picture of your overall condition.

4. Arrange necessary health screenings

Your primary care doctor won’t run specialty health screenings, but we serve as your first line of contact to the specialists who can. Your age and medical history dictate which health screenings you should receive and when to schedule them. 

During an annual physical, your doctor may detect something and deem it needs further screening. Referrals and appointments for further testing can be scheduled as needed. 

5. Know what health problems may be on the horizon

After checking your vitals and hearing about any symptoms you're experiencing, your physician will better understand what health concerns may be in your future. For example, if you're overweight and experiencing shortness of breath, they may warn of hypertension, sleep apnea, or even heart attack and give you steps to reduce your risk.

The board-certified team of doctors at Rapid City Healthcare recommends visiting for a physical at least once each year to prevent chronic disease and monitor your health effectively. If it's been more than a year since you've had a physical, call the practice or schedule an appointment online today.