At UAB Medical West, we know the importance of yearly check-ups firsthand. Here's why we'd like to see you at some point in 2022. Regular check-ups are a vital part of your health and can be a helpful tool in proactively preventing health issues. Find out why yearly check-ups are important and why you should never skip them.
Yearly Check-Up VS Regular Appointments
Back in the day, people preferred showing up at the doctor’s office when a health issue was already apparent. With advancements in the medical field, patients can now benefit from yearly check-ups, which can help determine their health status and allow for early intervention.
While regular appointments are aimed at dealing with a specific health issue, yearly check-up appointments can be used to update your immunization records and check for any potential health ailments that can be treated before the onset of symptoms.
Additionally, yearly check-ups are usually fully covered by your health insurance, so being proactive about your health can end up saving you money in the long run.
Why Are Yearly Check-Ups Important?
During your annual check-up, you and your doctor can discuss your family history and overall current health, which can help your doctor assess how you are doing even if you’re not showing any symptoms.
A yearly check-up visit can also help your doctor note which areas of your health might need extra attention, preventing more serious problems down the line. Some examples of areas addressed in your yearly check-up appointment include:
- Blood glucose level: your doctor can perform a blood glucose level test to determine the amount of glucose present in your blood. This test is performed on an empty stomach for the most accurate results.
- Blood pressure: your doctor will measure your blood pressure to determine the amount of force your blood is placing on your arteries.
- Cholesterol: your doctor can order blood work to examine the amounts of both good and bad cholesterol in your body.
- Body mass index: your doctor can note the ratio of your weight to your height and advise you on any potential effects of weight on your health.
- Cancer screening: if you have a history of cancer in your family, your doctor can use your yearly check-up to screen for breast, cervical, colorectal, skin, and testicular cancer.
Many of these elements can cause more serious problems down the line if left unchecked, so it’s best to catch and address them at your annual appointment.
Medications and Prescriptions
Your yearly check-up appointment is a great time for you and your doctor to go over all medications you are taking, adjust doses, and refill prescriptions. Your doctor can also discuss lifestyle and diet changes that could help you in addition to any medications you are taking.
If you think that you are overdue for your yearly visit, UAB Medical West staff will gladly assist you with making an appointment. Take care of your health this year, and give us a call!
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UAB Medical West in Birmingham, Alabama Cares About You Health
Keeping tabs on any health changes, medication side effects, and lifestyle changes can help you stay on top of your health! If you are unsure of what to expect from your yearly check-up appointment or would like to get more information, contact UAB Medical West today. We are serving Hueytown, Hoover, Bessemer, McCalla, and Vance!