The annual wellness exam can last from a half hour to an hour depending on your health and your physician.

It will start with a personal HRA (Health Risk Assessment). This includes health history, family health history, and head to toe physical exam. Your doctor will take note of any physical complaints or maladies you currently have as well. The family history can be important in diagnosing symptoms as some conditions and diseases are genetic and hereditary. All medications and supplements will be reviewed as well, so bringing a list with you can save time.

Blood work may also be done to measure cholesterol and blood glucose levels. Fasting, drinking water only, for 8 hours’ prior is usually assigned before your appointment.

During the exam itself, your doctor will check vitals such as blood pressure, pulse, oxygen level, and heart rate. They will then examine your eyes, mouth, ears, nose and skin.  Height and weight will be taken to determine your BMI (body mass index) making sure you are in the normal range, and making suggestions if you are over or under weight.

Age appropriate screenings may be included: Breast exams, as well as prostate check, may also be included, though full exams should be done by your gynaecologist and proctologist respectively. For younger sexually active patient’s STD screenings may be offered as well if deemed necessary.

Opening up the patient-doctor dialogue is vital during not only your wellness exam but during any visit. Choosing a doctor, you are comfortable talking to can make a difference in your overall health care. Honesty in answers and feeling free to ask questions makes it easier for the doctor to get a full health picture and give you answers based on fact. It enables them to give you the very best personalized recommendations.

If you are looking for a physician in Lee County, Florida please visit www.ipalc.org/find to find a doctor near you.