Seeing a primary care physician for a general wellness exam once per year can benefit you at any age. Even if you’re feeling fine, this annual checkup is a must. Here, the family medicine professionals at Bland County Medical Clinic in Bastian, VA, explain the benefits of seeing your local general health practitioner every 12 months.

3 Reasons for an Annual Check With Your Primary Care Physician

1. Catch Problems Early

In the case of many illnesses, such as cancer, early detection can greatly improve the odds of prompt treatment and an effective recovery. Many illnesses won’t present symptoms that you can notice yourself in their early stages, but they may be detectable by a healthcare professional. A standard blood test, for instance, can indicate problems like high cholesterol levels, which can contribute to heart disease or a poorly functioning liver.

2. Improve Your Quality of Life

As you get older, you may experience more frequent bouts of physical and mental discomfort. While these instances may not be significant enough to warrant urgent care, they are worth discussing with your primary care physician during your annual checkup. Your doctor isn’t just there to treat serious illnesses; they are also there to help you live the best quality of life possible. Whether you’re having difficulties sleeping or find yourself suffering from back pain, mention any issues when you go in for your checkup.

3. Establish Your Medical Home Base

By seeing your primary care physician regularly, you are establishing a convenient record of your medical history. Your results will be kept on file and you’ll be able to come back to them should problems arise in future. It can also be comforting to have a go-to doctor on call in case you have to deal with a serious illness in the future. Having a trusted medical practitioner by your side can be helpful in making choices about treatment options to pursue.

If you’re in need of a reliable primary care physician in Bastian, VA, look to Bland County Medical Clinic. This family medicine clinic has been serving the communities of Southwestern and Western Virginia for 38 years. Visit their website to find out more about their services or call (276) 688-4331 to schedule an appointment.