Many people put off their annual physical, if they feel fine, there’s no urgent need to visit the doctor. But skipping your yearly check-up can mean missing the early signs of serious conditions that are often treatable if caught early. 
 
At Memorial Medical Center, we believe prevention is just as important as treatment. Your annual physical is a chance to check in on your overall health, catch issues early, and build a relationship with a provider who knows your unique health history. 
 
What Happens During an Annual Physical? 
 
A typical physical exam includes much more than a quick listen to your heart. Your provider will check vital signs like blood pressure and heart rate, ask about your lifestyle, update your vaccination record, and order lab work if needed. They may screen for mental health concerns, review your medications, and assess risk factors based on your age, family history, and lifestyle. 
 
This visit also gives you time to ask questions, whether about sleep, energy, digestion, stress, or anything else affecting your day-to-day life. Your provider can help guide small but meaningful changes that improve your well-being. 
 
For many patients, the annual physical is one of the only consistent points of contact they have with a healthcare provider. That’s why it's so important. The more your provider knows about you, the better they can personalize your care over time. 
 
Screenings Can Save Lives 
 
Many serious health conditions start with no noticeable symptoms. That’s why annual screenings are so important. Depending on your age, gender, and risk factors, your provider may recommend: 

• Blood pressure check: High blood pressure often has no symptoms but can lead to stroke or heart attack. [CDC: High Blood Pressure] 

• Cholesterol test: High cholesterol increases your risk of heart disease. Tracking your cholesterol through routine tests can help protect your health.  

• Diabetes screening: A simple blood test can detect early signs of pre-diabetes and allows you to make lifestyle changes to prevent full diabetes.  

• Cancer screenings: Based on your risk factors, these can include mammograms, colonoscopies, skin checks, and more [U.S. Preventive Services Task Force] 

• Mental health screening: Supports early identification of depression or anxiety which allow for early interventions and better outcomes.  
   

These tests may seem routine, but they provide essential data that helps doctors catch red flags early, before symptoms even begin. 

 
Avoiding the Appointment? Here’s Why It Matters 
 
If you’ve delayed your physical, you’re not the only one. Many people skip because they feel fine, they’re too busy, or they simply don’t like going to the doctor. But here’s the reality: 

• Feeling healthy isn’t the same as being healthy. Many issues like high cholesterol or early-stage cancer cause no noticeable symptoms.   

• Most visits take less than an hour. Scheduling early or during lunch hours makes it easier.   

• It’s about more than tests. It’s also about peace of mind and staying in control of your health.   

Preventive care saves money over time by reducing the need for more costly treatments down the road. 

How to Make the Most of Your Visit 
 
Being prepared helps you get the most value from your annual exam. Here are a few ways to maximize your time: 

• Bring a list of current medications and supplements   

• Write down any symptoms or questions beforehand   

• Be honest about your habits (sleep, alcohol, diet, stress)   

• Ask what screenings or vaccines are recommended for your age   

• Talk about family health history   

• Discuss any changes since your last visit, even if they seem minor 

Start a Healthy Habit That Lasts 
 
Getting a physical every year is one of the simplest ways to stay on top of your health. And the more regularly you go, the better your provider can spot changes over time and address concerns before they escalate. 

Schedule Your Next Annual Physical Today