It is important to see your doctor for a routine checkup, especially if you have a family history of certain diseases. You can delay your checkups for a few reasons, such as time constraints or being under the weather, but you should see your doctor regularly. The task force’s recommendations are for healthy people. If you have a family history of cancer or heart disease, you may need to see your doctor more often. If you are concerned about any of these health risks, you should call your doctor immediately.
You should follow up with your doctor every six months or every two years, depending on your age, gender, and the type of disease you have. You should call your provider to learn the appropriate schedule for you. Routine tests and vaccinations are continually updated, so call your physician to find out if there are any changes. You may need to go for more frequent visits if you are a smoker or have a chronic illness, and your doctor will be able to give you more information based on your specific circumstances.
An annual physical should include a physical exam and a health history. Your physician will measure your height, weight, and pulse. He or she will also listen to your heart and lungs and examine your skin for any abnormalities. If you don’t have any risk factors, an annual physical is probably not necessary, although you should still schedule one at least once every year. Those tests may have harmful side effects.
