How Frequently Should You Visit Your Primary Care Physician

The frequency of routine check-ups will depend on your age, risk factors, and current health status. Generally, we recommend seeing your primary care physician once every three years when you are under 50 and healthy. However, if you are 50 and older, we recommend visiting a primary care physician once every year for a full-body check-up.

Adults with chronic conditions should see their primary care physician at least once a year to properly manage conditions and remain on top of any preventative screenings. If you are overweight or smoking frequently, you should regularly see your primary care doctor, regardless of your age. 

Why Should I See a Primary Care Physician?

Regularly seeing your primary care physician is critical in diagnosing any serious health condition. Early detection of the disease also improves your odds of overcoming it.

Going to your primary care physician may also be the first step in dealing with any issue, from mental health to family planning. Many patients are unaware of this! Primary care providers can also assist you in improving your overall health by recommending healthy lifestyle changes. Furthermore, primary care reduces the extra costs of medical care associated with treating complicated or serious conditions that are not diagnosed early.

What Should You Expect from a Physical?

When you visit our primary care physician for a check-up, you can expect a few things.

Before evaluating your history of health concerns, medicines, lifestyle, and other elements of your medical record, the nurse will examine your vital signs, including your blood pressure. You will also be asked if any medicines need refilling before you are eventually taken to the physician.

Once you and your doctor are in the private exam room together, your doctor will ask you some questions, depending on your previous records. If there have been any changes in your medical history since your last sessions, such as surgeries or new symptoms, it will be evaluated, and a new treatment plan will be established for you.

Detailed screening can also be done for checking:

• High blood pressure
• Obesity, as per your BMI
• Alcohol and drug misuse
• Depression
• HIV screenings
• Hepatitis C for people over 65
• Type 2 diabetes for anyone with a family history
• Colorectal cancer starting at age 50
• Lung cancer in adults aged 55 to 80 who smoke or have smoked in the last 15 years.

How Should You Prepare for Your Check-up?

Preparing for your check-up in advance may save you time and money at the doctor's office, which is why it's a good idea to plan. This includes the following:

• Gather all your documentation, insurance cards, and previous medical documents together, and make a note of any changes to your medical history to present during the test.
• Make sure your prescription list is up to date, including any vitamins, herbal medicines, or supplements you use.
• To minimize issues and delays, notify the doctor's office ahead of time if you have any special requests, such as an interpreter or wheelchair access.

At Newnan Family Medicine Associates, we strive to provide a high level of care to help you achieve a healthier life. So, if you are searching for a primary care physician near you in Newnan, contact us today on 770-251-5540 or schedule an appointment on our website. Our team of committed healthcare professionals is here to take care of you and your loved ones.