By Advanced Nurse Practitioner Corinne Hiser
The new year is a good time to think about your annual exam. Here are some important tips to consider before you go to your appointment.
Regular health exams enable your health care provider to assess and evaluate the status of your health.
How do you look?
How do you feel?
Have there been any changes in your health since your last visit?
Are there other health care providers involved, and if so, did they make any changes in your medications?
Have you had any tests performed that should be shared?
Were you hospitalized?
Did you have any surgeries?
Occasionally I am told, usually with a great deal of pride, “I haven’t been to the doctor in many years!” While some may believe this is something to be proud of, health care providers don’t think so. Your annual exam is a fabulous way to monitor your health and well being.
Knowing your family history is crucial. Sometimes this is not possible, but discussing your family’s history with family members who are familiar with the family tree is a great way to learn of hereditary health conditions. Awareness of your family’s history of breast cancer, colon cancer, or heart problems can help you and your doctor decide which tests might determine your own level of risk.
Ask your health care provider about screenings or vaccinations you may need. He or she is a tremendous resource for your health maintenance.
Are there specific health issues that need addressing regarding your future? Are you thinking about losing weight, quitting smoking, starting an exercise program? Now is the time to discuss your concerns.
Your annual exam is an invaluable time to be monitored, evaluated, and assessed for potential problems, and to connect with your health care provider.
When you make your appointment, ask about lab work that may be indicated, so you can be prepared. And please be sure to specify that you want an annual exam when you call, so the right amount of time is scheduled.
There is an Annual Checkup Checklist on the following page. Tear it out and take it with you so you know what questions to ask.
Several websites offer other checkup checklists:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/family/checkup
The American Academy of Family Physicians: http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/prevention-wellness/staying-healthy/healthy-living/preventive-services-for-healthy-living.printerview.all.html
Questions Are the Answer: www.ahrq.gov/questions/
WebMD: Annual Physical Examinations: www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/annual-physical-examinations
10 Questions You Should Ask
From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
- What is the test for?
- How many times have you done this procedure?
- When will I get the results?
- Why do I need this treatment?
- Are there any alternatives?
- What are the possible complications?
- Which hospital is best for my needs?
- How do you spell the name of that drug?
- Are there any side effects?
- Will this medicine interact with medicines I’m already taking?
M! Dec 2011/Jan 2012
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