An annual wellness exam is a comprehensive approach to preventive healthcare that aims to evaluate and maintain a patient’s overall health and well-being. It serves as a crucial tool to ensure that individuals not only stay healthy but actively engage in health maintenance to avoid health problems that can affect their quality of life. The primary purpose of a wellness exam is to detect any potential health issues through early detection and address them before they devannuakelop into serious medical conditions.
Despite the critical importance of these exams, many people overlook or avoid them. At 3P4Care Avondale, every appointment is centered on preventive care, and we always do our best to treat our patients using a comprehensive and holistic approach. In this blog post, we’ll explore why annual wellness exams are essential, what they entail, and how they differ from an annual physical exam.
Do I Really Need an Annual Wellness Exam?
Individuals who prioritize their health should be aware of the importance of regular check-ups, even if they feel perfectly healthy. These exams offer an opportunity for early detection and prevention of health problems before they become more serious. Regular check-ups allow healthcare providers to monitor a person’s health, identify risk factors, and address any health concerns promptly. By detecting potential health issues early, patients have a better chance of successfully managing or treating the condition. For example, detecting breast cancer early increases the chances of successful treatment and can even save lives.
Preventive care visits, such as annual wellness exams, provide an opportunity to establish baseline health measurements, monitor changes over time, and ensure that patients receive the appropriate screening tests and immunisations. These visits also allow healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive understanding of a patient’s medical history, which can help inform future care.
In addition, annual wellness exams can help patients establish a relationship with a healthcare provider who can provide ongoing care and address any health concerns that arise. Patients who have a trusted healthcare provider are more likely to receive the care they need and feel empowered to take an active role in their own health.
Annual Wellness Exam Checklist By Age
An annual wellness exam helps your doctor understand what’s working for you and takes a comprehensive approach to assess your overall health and well-being.
To help you better understand what to expect during an annual wellness exam, here is a checklist of tests and procedures that you should expect at different ages:
20s and 30s:
- Blood pressure check
- Height and weight measurement for body mass index (BMI)
- Cholesterol screening
- Blood glucose screening (if at risk for diabetes)
- HPV vaccination (if not already completed)
40s and 50s:
- All the tests and procedures listed above, plus:
- Cancer screenings, including mammograms, and colonoscopies (depending on gender and risk factors)
60s and older:
- All the tests and procedures listed above, plus:
- Screening for osteoporosis
- Pneumonia and flu vaccine
- Shingles vaccine
- Cognitive screening
It is important to note that this checklist is not exhaustive and that your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests and procedures based on your specific health needs and risk factors. By keeping up with regular annual wellness exams, you can work with your healthcare provider to detect and prevent health issues early, leading to a healthier and happier life.
3P4Care Avondale Preventative Services
At 3P4Care Avondale, we believe in taking a comprehensive approach to healthcare. We understand that physical health is only one part of the equation and that mental and emotional well-being is just as important. Our team of healthcare professionals is committed to providing preventive services and support for women’s health in every aspect, including physical, mental, and emotional health.
Our team will evaluate your overall health status during an annual wellness exam, including any potential risk factors, such as family history or lifestyle habits. We will also review your medical history, current medications, and any past surgeries or medical procedures you may have had. This information helps us develop a personalized care plan that considers your unique health needs.
Some of the services we offer include cancer screenings, reproductive health services, and immunisations. We also provide mental and emotional health support through counselling and referral services. Our goal is to help you achieve optimal health and well-being by providing you with the preventive care and support you need.
Annual Wellness Exams Available in Chicago
Preventive care protects and maintains good health and well-being by preventing disability, disease, and premature death. Every appointment at 3P4Care Avondale is centered on preventive care. Dr. Chu-Kwan Augustine Wong and the team understand your conditions as your primary care provider and can provide personalized advice and guidance.
Schedule your annual wellness examination or preventive care consultation by phone today.