6 Reasons to Schedule Your Annual Checkup, Even When You Feel Fine
By Carolyn Emerick, Family Physician at NHC Tanasbourne Medical and Dental Clinic
NHC Family Physician
Carolyn Emerick, MD
Why do I need an annual checkup if I’m not sick? Many people skip their annual checkups because they think they don’t need them. So why do you need to make an appointment if you aren’t feeling sick? Annual checkups and preventive care are very important for staying healthy and catching problems early before they get worse.
Reasons to See Your Doctor Even When You Feel Fine
Even if you feel fine, here are some important reasons to schedule a checkup:
- Track Your Health Over Time: Annual checkups help your doctor keep track of your health, making it easier to notice changes.
- Catch Problems Early: Screenings can find issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol early, making them easier to treat.
- Stay Up-to-Date on Shots: Vaccines protect you from getting sick with preventable illnesses.
- Get Health Tips: Your doctor can advise you about eating healthy, exercising, and managing stress.
- Build Trust with Your Doctor: A good relationship with your doctor makes getting the care you need when you’re not feeling well easier.
- Talk About Mental Health: Even if your body feels fine, your doctor can help with stress, anxiety, or depression.
What to Expect During an Annual Checkup
Not sure what happens at an annual checkup? Here’s what you can expect:
- Talk About Your Health History: Your doctor will ask about your health and any medicines you’re taking.
- Check Your Vital Signs: This includes things like your blood pressure and heart rate.
- Do Routine Screenings: Your doctor might check your cholesterol, blood sugar, or other basic health markers.
- Discuss Your Health Goals: Your doctor will talk to you about your habits and help you set goals for staying healthy.
Some people have the wrong idea about annual checkups. Let’s clear up a few myths:
“I don’t need a doctor because I feel fine.” Just because you feel fine doesn’t mean there aren’t hidden problems. Regular checkups help catch issues early.
“Checkups are only for older people.” Preventive care is important for people of all ages to stay healthy.
Book Your Checkup
At NHC, we work hard to ensure everyone gets the care they need. Oregon Health Plan (OHP) covers annual checkups and preventive care, and our sliding fee discount makes it affordable for everyone to get the care they need and deserve.
Take charge of your health today! Schedule your annual checkup. Call us at (503) 848-5861 to book your appointment. Your health is worth it!