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Having a physical exam is part of staying healthy. It is also a requirement for many insurance plans so that you can receive the most relevant care options at the lowest prices. Finally, it’s always helpful to have a yearly physical, so you know where your health stands overall and what you need to work on.
At Injury and Health Urgent Care, our providers — Melissa Kempf, MD, and Shannon Wait, DNP, APRN, FNP-C — want you to be prepared for your visit, and to know you’re always welcome to ask questions. In fact, that’s one of the most important aspects of receiving your yearly physical.
But what should you expect from your physical, especially if you haven’t had one in a while? Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Insurance often determines a lot for us, including when we need a physical, which tests are necessary, and what will be covered.
If you’re not sure about this information, give your insurance company a call and ask the member services representative to provide you with this information. For instance, your insurance plan may require certain tests and not cover others.
Once you know what your insurance plan requires and offers, call our office in San Antonio, Texas, and make an appointment. Let the receptionist know that your appointment is for a regular physical exam and give them your insurance information. Ask how early you should arrive.
Your provider may ask that you get certain diagnostic tests before your exam. These usually include blood tests, although if you’ve dealt with certain, specific medical issues in the past, other tests may be ordered.
Try to book diagnostic tests at least a week before your physical, and make sure you’re aware of any requirements, such as fasting blood tests.
Now that you’ve made your appointment, you’ll need to prepare. If you’re on any medications, bring them with you or at least write down the names and dosages, including supplements.
Next, consider your health and anything your doctor needs to know. For instance, do you suffer from headaches? Have you been experiencing more stress lately? Are you feeling any new mental or physical symptoms?
Also, you’ll need to know your personal and family medical history. Does cancer run in your father’s family? What type? What about diabetes? There are plenty of illnesses in which genetics plays a significant role.
Make sure you’re aware of your vaccination history, your allergies, and any side effects you may have experienced previously from using certain medications. All of these details are pertinent to your annual physical, especially with a new provider.
On the day of your exam, wear comfortable clothes that are easy to take off. You may be asked to don a paper gown once you’re in the exam room.
Expect to have your weight, height, blood pressure, and temperature taken before the physician comes in for the exam. Before beginning the exam, your provider will review your paperwork and likely ask questions about your health and any concerns you may have.
A comprehensive physical typically includes a check of your skin, breathing, vision, reflexes, heart, pulses, and basic neurological functions. We also assess your eyes, nose, throat, abdomen, and extremities.
We also offer women’s health exams at Injury and Health Urgent Care, providing screenings and guidance on birth control, menopause, and other age-related topics.
Once your exam is over, your provider might order additional tests or consultations, or recommend changes to your medications. Feel free to ask questions about any changes or new medications suggested.
Call our San Antonio, Texas, office to schedule a complete physical or book an appointment online.