Are you due for an annual exam?
No matter what your age or life stage, it is important to see your doctor each year. The focus of an annual exam will change over time, but this visit always provides an opportunity for preventative screenings and a chance to ask questions regarding physical, emotional and sexual health as well as pregnancy, aging, menopause and any specific concerns.
Even if you aren’t due until later in 2020, making your annual appointment now is a great way to start the year on the right foot. Not only will you have more scheduling options, but you will have ticked one important thing off of your annual to-do list. Preventative care, including annual exams, is 100 percent covered by most insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act.
To get the most out of your next exam:
- Come prepared with a list of any specific questions or concerns. Make sure to mention these right away so you have ample time to address them. Take notes, if needed.
- Know that nothing is off limits. “We have heard and seen pretty much everything and no one should ever feel nervous about discussing their life with us, that is what we’re here for!” said Dr. Pamela Jordi. We encourage patients to be open about their sexual history, habits and questions.
- If you are hoping to become pregnant in the next year, this is a great time to let your doctor know so that we can discuss any potential lifestyle modifications or concerns. If you have been trying to become pregnant but haven’t yet conceived, we can also discuss strategies, tests and options.
- If you receive a new prescription or diagnosis, make sure you have the information you need to move forward and a way to follow up with any future questions.
“We are all busy and often rush through appointments so we can get to the next thing. However, your annual exam is a great time to slow down, talk about what’s on your mind or what’s going on in your body, and prepare for what’s next,” added Dr. Jordi.
