Start the year right: Get a checkup

This paid piece is sponsored by Avera Health.

Just as your birthday comes around once a year, your yearly checkup with your doctor should happen annually too. This is a great time to get something scheduled if it has been more than a year since your last check-in.

“No matter what your age or gender, a yearly checkup is beneficial, and most insurance plans cover the cost,” said Dr. Kevin Post, chief medical officer of Avera Medical Group.

Connect with your family doctor

A dedicated primary care provider will know your personal and family medical history. Whether he or she is a family practitioner, OB-GYN, pediatrician or internal medicine specialist, it’s worth it — and necessary — to see a provider for multiple reasons.

Here’s what to expect

Your doctor will collect basic health information, such as weight, height and vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate and temperature.

• Heartbeat and breathing sounds via stethoscope.
• Head and neck exam, including tonsils, lymph nodes and thyroid.
• Abdominal exam to check for any tenderness and liver size.
• Muscle strength, reflexes and balance.
• Lab tests, such as a complete blood count, blood chemistry panel and urinalysis.
• Any recommended cancer screenings.
• Immunizations.

“This helps us watch for trends over time and also investigate vitals that are outside of normal range,” Post said.

Don’t forget screenings

For women, a yearly checkup may include a clinical breast exam, pelvic exam and recommended screenings, such as mammograms and Pap tests. For men, this appointment might include a testicular exam, prostate exam and a PSA blood test.

Whatever your gender, your doctor may recommend other screenings, such as:

• Blood cholesterol.
• Blood sugar level.
• Colonoscopy.
• Behavioral health conditions.

How to prepare

Think about any questions or concerns you have about your ongoing health.

• List or bring all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
• Write down your health questions so you don’t forget.
• Note any concerns weighing on your mind.

“Your primary care practitioner can recommend resources that can help start those all-important preventive steps, like tobacco cessation, good diet and more exercise,” Post said. “We’re just here to help you experience better health.”

Get more health and wellness tips at AveraBalance.org.