Make health a priority for you and your family in the new year. For many of us, busy schedules, unexpected expenses, and other life obstacles can get in the way of our health and happiness. Start your year off healthier by checking these off your list early!
1. Physical Exam
An annual physical exam ensures you address any health concerns you may have throughout the year and identify any new problems that may need attention. Physical exams typically involve routine immunization, cancer screenings and depression screenings, and other basic services. During your annual physical exam, your healthcare provider may also review your medication, recommend screening, and more. Most insurances not only cover annual wellness exams, but also encourage individuals to make an annual appointment with a primary care provider by offering incentives, including premium discounts, lower deductibles, and other rewards.
2. Vaccinations
It’s a good idea to check what yearly vaccinations may be recommended for you. Age, history of disease, lifestyle, and more could play a factor in what vaccinations may best protect you from uncomfortable and even dangerous diseases. Review our vaccine recommendations for seniors 65+, and talk to your primary care provider about what vaccinations you should consider receiving.
3. Eye Test
Your vision can deteriorate over time. A comprehensive dilated eye exam ensures your ophthalmologist can detect dangerous eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration in their earliest stages, which can increase the effectiveness of treatment and prevent vision loss. Related: How often should I get an eye exam?
4. Hearing Test
Hearing loss can creep up on us, oftentimes without detection until substantial damage or deterioration has occurred. Annual hearing tests ensure that your audiologist can detect the earliest signs of hearing loss, sometimes even before you notice symptoms.
5. Dental Exam
Regular dental examination is crucial for many aspects of our oral health, including the detection of gum disease, cavities, and oral cancer. Annual exams can also prevent future, often costly dental procedures.
6. Mental Health Check-In
It’s important to remember that our mental health is just as important as our physical health. If you’re experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness, or other mental health struggles, consider speaking to a trusted mental health provider. Taking steps to maintain your mental health can also improve other areas of your health, including your sleep quality, heart health, and more.
7. Heart Check
Heart disease is the leading global cause of death, affecting millions. In the U.S. alone, 1 in 4 deaths is due to heart disease. Annual heart screening can detect and prevent heart disease by examining factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, pre-diabetes, and more.
Connect with a Primary Care Provider in Hampton Roads, VA
Start the year right by prioritizing your health. TPMG provides patients with comprehensive, affordable primary care services in Williamsburg, Newport News, Yorktown, Virginia Beach and throughout Hampton Roads, VA. Find a Primary Care Provider near you.
The information shared is not intended to be medical advice, nor is it meant to replace a professional consultation with a healthcare provider. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of TPMG or its providers and physicians.
