Physical exams
Whether for preventative care or a specific need, we can help you get a physical when you need it. We provide comprehensive physicals for work, school, and sports as well as DOT exams:
- Well visits and physicals
- Department of Transportation (DOT) Exams
- Routine blood work
- Screening tests
It's a common question, and one that many people cringe to think about. However, according to a recent Kaiser Health Tracking Poll, 92% of Americans believe it’s important to get an annual physical. The problem is, only 62% actually do. This is partly because many people are unsure how often they should have a physical examination. If you only visit your doctor when you're sick, you might be overlooking your overall health. Annual wellness visits can help identify potential issues before they become serious. Additionally, it's essential to monitor key health metrics over time.
How often do you need a physical?
Just as everyone has different medical needs, your ideal physical exam schedule depends on your individual circumstances. If you are generally healthy, you may only need occasional preventive screenings based on your age.
General adult physical schedule:
- For ages 19-21, once every 2-3 years
- For ages 22-64, once ever 1-3 years
- Over 65, once a year
If you smoke or have risk factors for certain conditions, your doctor may recommend more frequent visits. If you're managing one or more chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or depression, collaborate with your physician to develop a personalized check-up schedule.
Regardless of your circumstances, regular visits help you build a strong relationship and medical history with your primary care provider. Routine blood tests also establish your unique health baseline. Everyone’s body is different, and what’s normal for you may not be normal for someone else. Keeping track of your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels can help identify early signs of potential issues more quickly.
Only you and your doctor can decide on the best checkup and screening schedule for you. However, here are some guidelines from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for men and women, categorized by age.
Guidelines for everyone
Even if you’re in good shape, take regular preventive steps to stay that way.
Also, check in with your doctor if you're feeling depressed, have questions about medication, or need advice on losing weight or quitting smoking. They can provide clinically proven strategies tailored to your lifestyle while minimizing risks.
Guidelines for men
Until age 50, most men can follow the general health guidelines. This is a great time to take some baseline measurements for comparison later.
Men ages 50 and up:
- Have a bone density (DEXA) scan. (Although osteoporosis is more commonly associated with women, men can suffer bone loss as well.)
- Ask your doctor whether you should have prostate cancer screening given your family history
- After 65, if you do or have smoked, get an ultrasound to screen for abdominal aortic aneurysms.
Guidelines for women
In addition to the screenings everyone needs, women should have an annual pelvic and breast exam.
Women ages 18 and 29:
- Ensure you have a complete HPV vaccination
- Get a pap smear to test for cervical cancer every 3 years
Women ages 30 and 49:
- Get a pap smear every 5 years
- Consult your doctor about whether you should have mammograms
Women ages 50 and up:
- Get annual mammograms until age 75
- Have a pap smear every 5 years until 65 or 70
- Test for bone density with a DEXA scan after age 50
After menopause or if you’ve had a hysterectomy, your doctor may recommend a different screening schedule.
We aim to get back to you within one business day if not sooner
.webp)