PULSE Summer 2024 7 Your annual physical is an opportunity to talk face-to-face with your health care provider. You may have a lot on your mind before this important annual wellness checkup. But when you finally get to the appointment, you may have only a few minutes to ask all your questions and address your concerns. It can be stressful, and it’s common to forget what you wanted to discuss. Here are six ways to get the most out of your annual exam, with tips on preparing for it, what to do while it’s happening and putting the information to use after it’s over. 1Plan your questions. In the weeks before your checkup, identify your three or four most important questions—and write them down. General questions might include: ● Am I due for any vaccines? ● What can I do to help prevent common health conditions? ● Where can I get help for a mental health issue? ● What changes can I make to eat healthier? ● How can I be more physically active? If you’re having any screenings or tests, you might ask: ● What’s the purpose of this test? ● What are the risks or side effects? ● When should I expect the results, and how will I get them? 2 Set goals. It’s a good idea to go into an annual exam with health goals to discuss with your provider. These goals should be related to your most important concerns. Common health goals can include: ● Losing weight. ● Quitting smoking. ● Overcoming a specific symptom, like getting dizzy on walks. 3 Invite someone you trust. Consider bringing a trusted family member or friend. They can help remind you of your concerns or take notes during the visit. 4Pack a bag. Collect all your prescription medications, over-thecounter medicines and supplements, in case you are asked about them. If you’re seeing a provider for the first time, bring as much information about your health history as you can gather, including any x-rays, test results and medical records. Throw a pen and notebook in the bag so you can take notes. 5Prep an update. If anything’s changed since your last checkup, speak up. Did you start exercising? Move to a new house? Lose your job? Has there been a death in the family? All these things can affect your health, and your provider needs to know. 6Calm your anxiety. Nerves before an annual medical checkup are common. While you wait for your provider, try to take a few deep breaths. Doing so can calm anxiety and help you focus during the visit. If you have any questions about your health or if it’s time for your annual exam, make an appointment with one of our primary care providers, with convenient locations in Kenai and Soldotna. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; HelpGuide; National Institute on Aging; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Prepare for your checkup Questions and goals to discuss with your provider Accepting new patients! Central Peninsula Family Practice & Pediatrics, Soldotna 245 N. Binkley St., Suite 10, Soldotna 907-714-4111 Central Peninsula Family Practice & Pediatrics, Kenai 506 Lake St., Kenai 907-714-4111
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