An annual physical exam is an essential part of maintaining overall health and wellness. Whether you’re feeling great or dealing with ongoing health concerns, a yearly check-up allows your healthcare provider to assess your well-being, identify potential health risks, and develop a proactive plan for prevention and treatment. If you’re wondering what to expect during an annual physical, this guide will walk you through the key components of a routine check-up and why it’s important for long-term health.
For walk-in primary care services, visit AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park. We provide annual physicals for patients in the Denver, CO area. No appointments are required– just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Why Are Annual Physical Exams Important?
Even if you feel perfectly healthy, an annual physical exam is valuable because it helps:
- Detect early signs of illness before they become serious
- Monitor chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
- Update vaccinations to protect against preventable diseases
- Discuss lifestyle habits that affect your health, such as diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management
- Build a strong doctor-patient relationship, ensuring continuity of care
Your medical provider will tailor the exam based on factors like age, medical history, and any existing health concerns.
What’s Included in a Yearly Physical Exam?
A standard annual physical exam consists of multiple components, including a medical history review, physical assessment, and screenings. Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens during your visit:
1. Medical History Review
Your healthcare provider will ask about:
- Any current symptoms or concerns you have
- Past medical history, including previous illnesses, surgeries, and hospitalizations
- Family medical history to assess genetic risks for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer
- Medications you’re currently taking
- Allergies to medications, foods, or environmental triggers
- Lifestyle habits including diet, exercise, alcohol consumption, smoking, and sleep patterns
2. Vital Signs Check
Your provider will measure key health indicators, including:
- Blood pressure
- Heart rate
- Respiratory rate
- Temperature
3. Physical Examination
A head-to-toe exam allows your provider to assess your overall health, including:
- General appearance
- Head and neck
- Heart and lungs
- Abdomen
- Neurological function
4. Preventive Screenings & Lab Tests
Depending on your age, gender, and medical history, your provider may recommend routine screenings, such as:
- Cholesterol test
- Blood sugar test
- Complete blood count (CBC) and metabolic panel
If you have specific health concerns, it’s a good idea to let your provider know before your annual physical exam. This way, they can provide further guidance on what to expect or how to prepare for your exam.
5. Immunizations & Preventive Care
Your medical provider will ensure your vaccinations are up to date, including:
- Flu shot (annual)
- Meningitis
- Tdap
- Pneumonia (if applicable)
- Shingles (if applicable)
They may also discuss further preventive health strategies, such as weight management. You can use this time to ask any questions about managing stress, improving sleep, or reducing disease risk based on your personal health history.
How To Prepare For Your Annual Physical
To get the most out of your visit, come prepared with:
- A list of medications and supplements you take
- Medical records or past test results
- A list of any symptoms or concerns you want to discuss
- Lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise routine, and sleep patterns
- Family history or chronic diseases
Primary Care Services Available at AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park in Denver, CO
An annual physical exam is an important step in maintaining long-term health and preventing serious medical conditions. By reviewing your medical history, checking vital signs, performing a physical exam, and ordering necessary screenings, your provider can ensure you’re on the right track toward a healthy future. If you’re in need of a yearly check-up, come visit AFC Urgent Care Denver City Park. We offer primary care services, including physical exams, screenings, vaccinations, and personalized health consultations– all designed to help you feel your best year-round!
Our center proudly serves all patients in the greater Denver, CO area– including RiNo, North Denver, and Central Park. We accept most health insurance plans and provide cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the primary care services we provide, please call us directly at (303) 381-1100.
