5 Reasons Not to Skip Your Annual Physical

Annual physical exams are your first step to better health. They lay the groundwork for wellness screenings, making it easier for us to track your health as you move through life.

Don't underestimate the impact of skipping your annual exam — it's a missed opportunity to spot issues early and ensure you get the care you need.

Looking for a physical exam? Honeycomb Medical Group in Memphis, Tennessee, and Holly Springs, Mississippi, has you covered. Our primary care specialists make your Medicare annual wellness visit easy, offer preventive care, and provide vaccinations during your annual exam.

The importance of an annual physical

Annual physical exams play a critical role in your health and wellness. By seeing your doctor at least once a year, you stay proactive about your health and help us monitor any issues.

During your physical exam, we catch up on any changes over the previous year — from medication updates and lifestyle shifts to new health conditions. We explore new family medical issues and check in on your mental health.

During your exam, we take a close look at your heart, lungs, and gastrointestinal (GI) system, check your blood pressure and blood sugar, and review your recent blood work.

Our goal for your annual physical is to be proactive about your health and wellness so we can spot and address any issues before they become significant problems.

Reasons not to skip your physical

Life gets busy, and we understand it can be tempting to skip your annual physical. But making time for your health is worth it! Here are five reasons to schedule yearly exams:

1. Early detection of health issues

Chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, can sneak up on you without presenting obvious symptoms. A physical helps us detect health problems early and treat them before complications develop.

2. Preventive care is key

Stay healthy and save money by making preventive screenings a habit. Blood pressure checks, blood work, and mental health evaluations all help keep you on track for a healthier future.

3. Strengthen the doctor-patient relationship

By checking in regularly with your doctor, you build a stronger partnership. You’re likely more comfortable sharing health updates and asking for lifestyle tips.

4. Monitor health changes

Health changes can occur at inconvenient times and don’t always present symptoms. We monitor your health during your exam to track changes over time and stay on top of treatments.

5. Get lifestyle and mental health advice

Your annual physical is an opportunity to discuss your health goals — whether you want to quit smoking, start an exercise routine, explore weight loss options, or seek wellness advice. 

We also check in on your mental well-being and work together on treatments that can help you effectively manage stress.

Ready to schedule your annual physical? Call us today at the Honeycomb Medical Group location near you.