The Importance of Routine Physicals, Even When You Feel Fine

Routine physicals and wellness screenings play a key role in keeping you healthy throughout all phases of life. Taking the simple step of having a physical could save your life. 

Age-appropriate health screenings are a preventive health measure that should be a priority for every American. So why aren’t more people having routine wellness screenings? Patients often report putting off wellness visits when they feel fine and consider themselves to be in good health. But here’s why it’s important to come in for your routine wellness exams, even when you’re feeling fine.

Goal of preventive health visits

The goal of regular physicals and health exams is to spot potential problems before they start. Scheduling an appointment to discuss what screenings you need and when you need them is the first step. By getting a physical and health screenings, you’re supporting your overall health and lowering the chances of having a disease that’s already progressed to an advanced stage.

Silent killers

Many chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure and many cancers, cause no noticeable symptoms in the early stages. If you put off getting an annual physical and other health screenings because you’re feeling fine, you lower the chances that your health care provider will detect problems before they progress. Remember, just because you feel fine doesn’t mean everything is OK with your health.

What is a routine physical?

During a routine physical, Dr. Leibowitz feels and listens to different parts of your body. By doing this exam, he:

• Checks for possible diseases
• Helps detect issues that may become a problem in the future
• Keeps track of changes in your health
• Guides health care management

You can expect to discuss any past or current medical conditions, previous operations, past immunizations, family history, medications, and current symptoms, if you have any.

Risk assessment

A health risks assessment checks your weight, height, and blood pressure to help determine if you’re at risk for developing health problems in the future. Depending on the information Dr. Leibowitz learns from the health risk assessment, he may recommend specific screenings for a separate visit or refer you to a specialist for further testing.  

Comprehensive wellness

Dr. Leibowitz makes recommendations for wellness screenings based on your age, gender, lifestyle, medical history, family history, and health status. He may recommend any of the following that are appropriate for you:

• Breast exam
• Pap test
• Sexually transmitted disease testing
• Cholesterol screening
• Diabetes screening
• Colorectal cancer screening

The beginning of the year is an excellent time to schedule your annual wellness visit. The information collected during your visit is compiled into a comprehensive record of your personal health.

Be proactive

Routine physicals and wellness screenings are an important step in living a longer, healthier life. Knowing as much as possible about your health enables you to take steps to prevent and manage diseases that may develop. So, schedule a physical and let us help you stay healthy today. Call our office in Brooklyn, New York, and speak with one of our helpful team members. Or you can book online today while you’re here on our website.