Annual Wellness Exams

What is an Annual Wellness Exam?

An annual wellness exam is a routine visit with your healthcare provider that focuses on your overall health and preventive care. Rather than treating an illness, this appointment is designed to evaluate your current condition, discuss risk factors, and provide guidance for healthy living.

During your visit, your provider will review your medical history, medications, and family health background. The exam often includes checking vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and body mass index. Depending on your age and risk factors, lab work or screenings may be ordered to check for cholesterol, blood sugar, thyroid function, or other health indicators.

At Macomb Physicians Group, we emphasize the importance of regular wellness exams as a proactive step toward maintaining long-term health. These visits give our patients the opportunity to assess their overall wellness, address any concerns, and identify health issues before they become more serious. Annual exams are recommended for all adults and are tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs and goals.

Why Are Annual Wellness Exams Important?

Annual exams help catch potential health problems early when they are easier to manage or treat. They also allow your provider to:

Monitor changes in your health and compare results year to year.
Detect early signs of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
Update immunizations and preventive screenings.
Provide lifestyle counseling on topics like diet, exercise, sleep, and stress.
Strengthen your relationship with your provider, ensuring continuous and coordinated care.

Regular wellness visits play a key role in preventing illness and improving quality of life by helping you stay informed and involved in your healthcare decisions.

How can I prepare for my physical?

Taking a few simple steps before your appointment helps make the most of your time with our team:

Bring your medical information: Have a list of your medications, supplements, allergies, and any chronic conditions.
Note any health changes: Write down new symptoms or concerns you want to discuss.
Gather paperwork: Bring insurance details and identification, especially if you are a new patient.
Follow pre-visit instructions: If blood work is required, you may need to fast beforehand.
Be open and honest: Share lifestyle habits, emotional well-being, and any challenges you face in maintaining a healthy routine.

What Does the Exam Include?

Your wellness visit typically involves:

Medical History Review: Discussion of personal and family health background.
Vital Signs Check: Measurement of blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and weight.
Physical Examination: Assessment of eyes, ears, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, and skin.
Screenings and Lab Tests: As needed for cholesterol, blood sugar, thyroid, or other conditions.
Preventive Planning: Discussion of vaccination updates, nutrition, and exercise habits.

At Macomb Physicians Group, we view annual wellness exams as more than a basic checkup—they are a partnership between patient and provider. Our goal is to keep you informed, healthy, and confident in managing your well-being all year long.

What does a physical involve?

Here are some key components of a physical involves:

Medical History: The doctor will ask you about your medical history, including any chronic conditions, medications you are taking, allergies, and previous surgeries.
Vital Signs: The doctor will measure your blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, and respiratory rate.
General Appearance: The doctor will evaluate your overall appearance, looking for signs of distress, discomfort, or any other physical abnormalities.
Head and Neck: The doctor will examine your head and neck, looking for any abnormalities in the eyes, ears, nose, throat, and lymph nodes.
Heart and Lungs: The doctor will listen to your heart and lungs using a stethoscope to check for any abnormalities.
Abdomen: The doctor will examine your abdomen, checking for any abnormalities, such as swelling or tenderness.
Musculoskeletal System: The doctor will check your joints, muscles, and bones, looking for any abnormalities or limitations in movement
Neurological System: The doctor will test your reflexes, coordination, and sensory function to evaluate your neurological health
Skin: The doctor will examine your skin, looking for any abnormalities, such as rashes or growths.
Laboratory Tests: Depending on your medical history and the findings of the physical examination, the doctor may recommend laboratory tests, such as blood tests or urinalysis, to further evaluate your health.