Annual Physicals
What do annual physicals test for?
To complete the physical, your practitioner may draw blood for several laboratory tests. These can include a complete blood count and a complete metabolic panel (also called a chemistry panel). The panel tests your blood plasma and can indicate any issues that exist in your kidneys, liver, blood chemistry, and immune system
At what age should you start annual physicals?
As we get older many of us start to see more physical problems in general, and so at around age 50 you should really begin getting annual physicals. Age 50 is also when both men and women should first undergo colonoscopies to screen for colon cancer.
What is the difference between a physical and annual wellness visit?
An annual physical exam is more extensive than an AWV. It involves a physical exam by a doctor or a practitioner and includes bloodwork and other tests. The annual wellness visit will just include checking routine measurements such as height, weight, and blood pressure. It’s a good idea to see your primary care practitioner annually.