Attending regular doctor’s appointments is one of the most beneficial investments you can make for your health. It’s a proactive measure that may prevent serious illness, disease and even death.
Regular appointments are critical for your overall wellbeing, particularly if you’re aged 65 or have chronic illnesses.
Six out of ten Americans are diagnosed with at least one chronic illness. These illnesses usually necessitate daily medication and follow-up appointments with a medical professional or specialist to monitor progress and keep you healthy.
A primary care physician is the key to your overall wellbeing and should see you at least once annually for a physical exam and blood work to detect conditions like high cholesterol or diabetes. They will also offer preventative care like vaccinations and dietary advice, as well as managing any existing ailments.
These doctors specialize in children’s healthcare and should see you at least once a month for checkups and routine shots. These appointments allow physicians to detect behavioral issues like ADHD, sleep apnea or bedwetting before they become major problems.
Your eye doctor should inspect your eyes at least once annually to detect signs of health problems, such as cataracts or glaucoma. They can also order tests to detect cancer and other serious conditions and prescribe glasses or contacts if necessary.
Always be honest with your doctor about any medical history or concerns. Doing so helps them comprehend your symptoms and craft a treatment plan tailored specifically for you.
Be sure to bring along your insurance card and any other necessary information, such as old medical records. Doing so can make the visit faster and smoother for them to finish.
Ask your doctor if they have an open schedule so that you can arrange another appointment at a convenient time. Although they may not always have availability, they will do their best to accommodate you.
Talk with your provider about the most efficient way to communicate after your appointment, whether that be over the phone, by email or through a patient portal. Doing this can reduce any confusion or delays in communication with your doctor and keep you on track with your care.
Maintaining a positive relationship with your doctor is essential for maintaining good health, and will boost your faith in their abilities to provide care. They’ll be more attentive to what you need and answer any queries you have.
They may also suggest alternative treatments that could make you feel better.
If you have a family doctor, they can also refer you to specialists if necessary. For instance, they could refer you to a dermatologist if there’s concern about skin cancer.
For older adults, it’s wise to have annual appointments with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to check your eyes’ health and get your prescription updated. Furthermore, having a screening for certain cancers such as colon, breast or prostate is recommended.
