A health checkup is a comprehensive appointment where your doctor will review your past and current medical history. Your doctor will likely review your:
- Health history
- Medication list
- Allergies
Additionally, your provider will perform a physical examination that evaluates your different organ systems. Depending on your age and risk factors, physicians will also screen for certain diseases and conditions. If your doctor has concerns, they may order laboratory testing or refer you to a specialist.
An important part of a health checkup involves a discussion between you and your doctor on how you can improve your overall health. For example, your doctor may discuss your lifestyle, diet, social situation, or health risks and how to improve these aspects to better your health and quality of life1.
Why are health checkups important?
Health checkups are incredibly important to address present health concerns and avoid future ones. In fact, regular primary care appointments in adults over the age of 65 have been shown to decrease an individual’s risk of death and increase their likelihood of living independently long-term. Although you may feel healthy, you may have risk factors or underlying conditions that can be identified by your primary care doctor. With early detection and/or intervention, you are more likely to have better health outcomes2.