No, this does not mean, swearing off carbs and beginning a vigorous exercise program in the weeks before your exam in order to appear healthier. First, it’s not possible, and could be dangerous. What I mean by prepping is having the information on hand that will help you and your provider make the most out of your visit.
I have my annual physical this year, with a young doctor I’ve only seen once but liked very much. I want to make sure she has what she needs to collaborate on my health care. While there have been studies that refute the value of a yearly physical, I, as a health care provider, think it’s important. Seeing someone when they are feeling well, getting labs when they are healthy, creates a baseline to refer to when there is an alteration in health, and also establishes a rapport which will help communication in the future. It is also the best time to evaluate the need for preventative health care measures or tests.
Sadly, your provider will not have a lot of time, likely no more than 15 minutes. So it’s up to you to prep for the exam, in order to receive optimum care. Here’s what you can do:
1: Have a list of medications that you might need he or she to refill in the future and ask how best to execute this request. Provide all the medication you take, even ones prescribed by other providers, because medication can alter blood tests. And if you’ve changed pharmacies, let them know.
2: If this is a new provider, or if you have gotten vaccines elsewhere, have a copy of your most recent immunizations. Same goes for any health screenings such as colonoscopies, mammograms, pap smears or bone density tests. Also helpful would be a printout out of your most recent blood tests.
3: Be able to provide the approximate dates and nature of any hospitalizations or surgeries, since your last visit (or ever, if this is a new provider).
4: Be knowledgeable about health problems that run in your family, and offer this information if you are not specifically asked about it. These can include heart problems, cancer, hormonal problems such as thyroid imbalances, and mental health and substance abuse issues.
5: If you have some health concerns, pick the two most important ones and plan to reschedule to address others. Do mention what these concerns are; if specifici lab studies are needed, you can have them done at the same times as the rest of your blood work.
Should go without saying, but you should tell the truth. Your provider will not judge and will appreciate honest information that will benefit your long-term health.
#yearlyphysical#preppingispower#optimizeyourvisit#itsyourhealth#youareinchargeofyourhealth