Urgent Care for Annual Physical Exams in Chicopee, MA

In general, a physical examination is a routine test conducted by your doctor to determine how well you are doing. A primary care provider may be a doctor, a nurse practitioner, or a physician’s assistant but in our urgent care we offer routine physical exam. Exams such as this are also referred to as wellness checks. It is not necessary to be sick to request an exam.

If you have noticed any changes or problems in your health, you can discuss them with your doctor during the physical exam. During a physical examination, you can undergo a variety of tests. Doctors may recommend additional tests based on your age, medical history, or family history.

Physical examinations help your doctor determine your general health status. You can also discuss any ongoing pain or symptoms you are experiencing with the doctor, as well as any other health concerns you may have.

During these exams, which should be annual particularly for those aged 50 and older, your doctor identifies any issues that may later be cause for concern, check for conditions such as diabetes to facilitate early treatment, ensure that you are maintaining an appropriate exercise schedule and a healthy diet, among more. Physicals are a perfect opportunity for patients to build relationships with their doctors which helps establish a comprehensive continuity of care. During these exams, cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels can also be checked. It is possible for these levels to be high without you ever displaying any symptoms. Doctors can treat these conditions before they become severe through regular screenings. Before surgery or treatment for a medical condition, your doctor may also perform a physical exam.

During your visit with your doctor, a nurse will ask you a series of questions about your medical history, including allergies, previous surgeries, and symptoms. Additionally, they may ask about your lifestyle, such as whether you exercise, smoke, or drink alcohol.

The ideal physical schedule for you depends on your situation just as everyone has different medical needs.

The average healthy person should get a physical every two to three years in their 20s, every other year in their 30s and 40s, and every year after 50. Additionally, you should get regular health screenings such as skin checks, pap smears, mammograms, and colorectal cancer screenings. Depending on your age, gender, and health history, your doctor may recommend certain screenings for you.

Your doctor may suggest you come in more frequently if you smoke or are at risk for certain conditions. If you suffer from chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or depression, talk to your physician about creating a personalized check-up schedule.

Your doctor benefits from regular visits regardless of your circumstances. Your unique health baseline is established by routine blood tests. We’re all different, and what’s normal for one person may not be the same for another. You’ll be able to detect early signs of trouble if you keep track of your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.

A checkup will probably involve taking your blood pressure, so don’t drink coffee before the appointment: it could affect the results. Do not eat high-fat meals if you wouldn’t normally do so, so your doctor can get an accurate picture of your health. Eat the same as you normally would in general so your doctor can get the clearest picture of your baseline health. If you are well hydrated during a physical, your pulse and blood pressure will be at their best. The results of blood work or urine testing can be distorted if you are mildly dehydrated. A doctor may want to evaluate your symptoms without any over-the-counter medications when you’re sick. Make notes of any health concerns or irregularities and don’t hesitate to bring them up with your physician.

If you have any questions about how to be best prepared for a physical exam staff at Priority Urgent Care and Walk-In Practice are happy to answer them. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment. We are conveniently located at located at 1505 Memorial Drive Chicopee, MA 01020. We serve patients from Chicopee MA, Springfield MA, Ludlow MA, Westfield MA, Holyoke MA, Southwick MA, Wilbraham MA, and BEYOND!