Annual Physical

What is an annual physical?

Annual physical exams are an important yearly occurrence. You should attend a physical exam with your primary physician once a year to get an overall idea of your health and your body’s functioning. Annual physicals are important for everyone, but they become increasingly necessary as you age. 

The information Dr. Nguyen and his team gather during your annual physical can lead to a diagnosis, meaning you can start treatment much earlier than if you waited for signs and symptoms to appear. Catching a disease early with a physical exam can significantly improve your treatment outcome. 

Physical exams are also important because they allow you to establish a longstanding relationship with Dr. Nguyen. He and his team can give you better, more personalized support when they’re familiar with your personal preferences and health history.

What are my options for annual physicals?

At Nguyen Medical Group, Dr. Nguyen and his team offer a tiered system for annual physicals. Of course, you have the option for a standard yearly physical that insurance covers. This basic annual physical gives you all of the information you need to understand your health in its current state. 

An upgraded annual physical at Nguyen Medical Group may include more comprehensive information and services, including on-site lab work, screening tests, and more. Dr. Nguyen and his team can detail the differences between the tiers to help you choose the best annual physical plan. 

What should I expect during my annual physicals?

A standard physical exam includes measurements and simple tests to explore your health and functioning. Each annual physical appointment starts with a discussion of your general health over the past year. 

You should tell Dr. Nguyen and his team about any changes you’ve noticed or new or worsening symptoms. Note that it is still vital to get your annual physical even if you feel perfectly healthy. 

After a discussion of your medical history and general wellness, your annual physical involves:

• Blood pressure reading
• Heart rate check
• Respiratory rate check
• A visual examination of your eyes, ears, nose, and throat
• Visual observation of your demeanor
• Palpating your organs through your abdomen
• Reflex testing

Dr. Nguyen might also recommend blood testing to check your cholesterol and other parts of your blood chemistry. He may perform specific screening tests and recommend updates for vaccinations if you need them.

If it’s time for your next annual physical, call Nguyen Medical Group or schedule an appointment online today.