5 reasons to book your annual physical today

When was the last time you had a check-up? If it's been more than a year, it's time to book your annual physical. Regular physicals are essential to maintaining your overall wellbeing and catching any potential issues early. Discover the benefits of having an annual physical and consider asking your doctor these important questions to make sure you get the most out of your appointment.

The top 5 benefits of having an annual physical

Your annual physical allows your doctor to assess your overall health, keep track of key health indicators, and identify your personal risk factors for conditions like heart disease and diabetes. It's also an opportunity to identify lifestyle changes that could help prevent conditions for which you might be at risk. Here are the top 5 reasons to book your annual physical today.

1. Regular check-ups can help your doctor detect any potential issues early - even before symptoms appear — so you can begin treating them right away. Treatments for many serious conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers, are most effective when started early.
2. At your annual physical, your doctor can assess your personal risk factors and recommend age appropriate screenings and vaccinations, as well as provide personalised lifestyle advice to help you stay healthy. Sometimes changes in your health indicators (such as your blood pressure or cholesterol) are subtle, and you might not notice them yourself, but tracking them over time could help your doctor identify a change you could make to avoid issues down the road.
3. Studies show that preventive care leads to better overall health, fewer hospitalizations, and a longer lifespan by reducing your risk of chronic diseases and other health issues. Your annual physical is an essential starting point for proactive preventative care.
4. Your annual physical is a great opportunity to assess your mental health, too. You and your doctor can discuss stress, anxiety, or other concerns that may affect your overall wellbeing. Addressing mental health during routine check-ups is proven to improve overall health and ensure you have the resources you need to feel your best.
5. Even if you feel fine, your annual physical helps you stay proactive about your wellbeing, track changes over time, address minor concerns before they become more serious, and build your relationship with your doctor. Being proactive and self-aware is essential to your long-term health, as you'll be more likely to catch potential issues early, make healthy lifestyle choices, and maintain your overall wellness before problems arise. Regular check-ups empower you to take control of your health rather than reacting to issues after they develop.

Questions to ask your doctor at your annual physical

Before you leave your physical, make sure you have a clear understanding of where you stand when it comes to your health, any potential concerns your doctor may have, and any changes you need to make. At a minimum, you should know the answers to these questions — and if you don't, you can ask your doctor to answer them for you.

1. Are my vital signs (such as my blood pressure and cholesterol) within a healthy range, or could they be improved?
2. Based on my age, my medical history, and my lifestyle, what screenings, tests, or vaccinations should I consider having?
3. Are there any lifestyle changes I could make that could help me improve my overall health?

Book your annual physical today

Not only is an annual physical an investment in your health, but preventive care is more cost-effective than treating issues after they've developed, so taking advantage of your annual check-up can help your finances, too.

Your Allshores health insurance plan includes coverage for your annual physical exam with your doctor. Don't wait until something feels wrong — schedule your check-up today and be proactive about your wellbeing.