A general wellness exam helps your doctor determine your health status and allows you to discuss any concerns you might have. If you haven’t gotten a physical in a while, you may have forgotten what to expect. Here’s some further information about how often to schedule a wellness exam at a medical center and what you can expect during this appointment.

How Often Should You Schedule General Wellness Exams?

How frequently you schedule a general wellness exam at a medical center will depend on several factors, such as your age and disease risk. If you’re under 30 and have no major health risks, you can get a physical every two to three years. If you’re between the ages of 30 and 40, it’s recommended to get a wellness exam every other year. Once you’re 50 or over, annual physicals become necessary.

What Should You Expect During a Wellness Exam?

Everyone has different health needs, depending on their age, genetics, and lifestyle, so no two wellness visits are the same. However, your doctor will check several factors at every exam, including your height, weight, eyesight, hearing, blood pressure, heart, and lungs.

They may decide to perform additional tests if something is revealed from your medical history, symptoms, or physical exam. Common laboratory tests performed during wellness visits may include a liver panel, urinalysis, lipid panel, and stress test.

Your doctor may offer additional exams depending on your gender. Men, for example, may receive testicular and prostate exams while women may receive breast and pelvic exams.

If it’s time for your wellness exam, turn to the medical professionals at Fairbanks Clinic, Inc. The Alaska medical center has provided a wide range of health care services since 1932, from physicals and immunizations to cardiac stress testing and pelvic tests. For more information about their health services, call (907) 452-1761 or visit their website. You can also find more health tips on the medical center’s Facebook page.