Health Provider Visit Campaign
Written by: Ashlyn Thomas
Graphics by: Jalysa Ellis
The Public Health Record encourages you to schedule your yearly appointments with your healthcare providers. Checking in with your doctors annually or biannually is very important for your physical and mental health.
These check-ups help doctors detect abnormalities in your body as early as possible before they become painful and/or dangerous. Yearly visits also help you maintain a good rapport with your doctor, which is vital for getting the best care possible.
Let’s talk about some types of healthcare providers you can visit this upcoming year.
1. Primary Care Physician (PCP)
A primary care physician handles your general health needs, as well as non-urgent concerns during check-ups. They conduct your physical exam, which usually includes checking your heart rate, blood pressure, weight, and height. Your physician will recommend vaccines for you based on factors such as your age or medical history. For example: Tetanus, flu/COVID boosters, chickenpox, etc. The tetanus shot is administered once every ten years and the chickenpox vaccine is usually administered to children, while boosters are often administered at least once a year.
This doctor can also order blood work. There are many reasons to administer a blood test panel, such as, to monitor cholesterol levels, obtain a complete blood count, and check for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). Your provider may recommend specific blood tests based on your personal and family history; for example, if you have a family history of diabetes, a blood sugar panel may be recommended for you. You can also ask for extra information from your blood test depending on your concerns. If you are changing doctors or transitioning from pediatrician to primary care physician, asking for a blood test that checks for everything can be useful to give your new doctor a good starting point.
At some point, your doctor will ask you questions about your eating and exercise habits, as well as your mental health. It is incredibly important that you answer these questions honestly because that information helps doctors advise you in the best way possible. You should feel comfortable with your healthcare provider and ask questions so you can get the best care.
Here are some questions doctors want patients to ask at their appointments.
2. Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN)
This provider specializes in the female reproductive system as well as pregnancy and childbirth. During your annual checkup, your OB-GYN will typically conduct a breast exam and mammogram, which are both helpful for early detection of cancer. The breast exam is an annual physical check for lumps in the breast tissue and the mammogram is an x-ray that is typically conducted every one to two years starting at the age of 40. Your doctor may recommend you start getting your mammograms earlier than 40 years old if you have a family history of breast cancer.
Starting at the age of 21, women visiting their OB-GYN will also get a pap smear every 3-5 years. This test takes tissue from your cervix to screen for cervical cancer. Additionally, your OB-GYN may screen for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The frequency of STD screening will vary from patient to patient. Some STDs are recommended to be tested every year if you engage in sexual activity, while others are every three to six months for multiple partners. Make sure to ask your doctor for more information on the frequency of screening and which diseases they recommend screening for.
Here are some important topics you should always discuss with your gynecologist.
3. Dentist
Dentists are doctors of oral health. You should schedule a checkup every six months. These visits usually consist of getting a professional deep cleaning of your teeth for cavity prevention, x-rays of your mouth (usually at least once a year), and a general visual check of your oral health. The dentist will conduct an oral cancer screening and discuss any concerns they may have. Do not be afraid to ask your dentist questions about diagnoses. It is important to be honest about your oral hygiene habits so that your dentist can provide the best care for you.
Here is information on how to choose a dentist.
4. Ophthalmologist
This doctor specializes in eye health. It is recommended to get an eye exam every one to two years for most adults, and every year for children from 6-17 and adults above 65. The eye exam consists of visually examining the eye and testing your vision. The results will allow your ophthalmologist to prescribe corrective lenses (glasses) or make diagnoses if necessary.
Here is more information about ophthalmologists including the conditions they treat, the tests they perform, and when you should see one.
5. Dermatologist
Dermatologists are focused on your skin, hair, and nail health. They help with a wide range of problems from acne to skin cancer. During your annual visit, they will examine all of your skin, including your scalp, for any spots of concern. If you have any skin concerns, like spots that are causing symptoms such as itchiness, make sure to let your dermatologist know so they can pay special attention to those areas. The doctor may recommend getting a biopsy for any spots on your skin that look abnormal. A skin biopsy is when the doctor takes some skin cells to send to a lab and determine if the cells are cancerous. Yearly checks of your skin are crucial for everyone but even more so for people who have fairer skin or a history of skin cancer in their family.
Here are frequently asked questions for dermatologists.
6. Podiatrist
This doctor specializes in foot, ankle, and toe health. A foot exam is recommended once a year (every two to three months for people with diabetes) and can consist of a pulse check, ultrasound, and visual exam. The pulse check is used to make sure that the blood flow to your foot is normal, and the podiatrist may recommend getting an ultrasound to help diagnose any abnormalities. The foot examination may include visually assessing the skin and nails in the area as well as checking your reflexes and temperature perception.
Here are some frequently asked questions for podiatrists.
Finally, we have provided a list of tests that your doctor should recommend you receive based on your age.
20s
Pap Smears (for Women)
30s
Cholesterol Screenings
40s
Stress Echocardiograms
(Mammograms for Women; Rectal Exams for Men)
50s
Colonoscopy, Bone Density Test
(Prostate Exam + Blood Tests for Men)
60s
Osteoporosis Screenings
Now that you are armed with the knowledge of various types of doctors and know what to anticipate during appointments, we trust that you feel empowered to take charge of your health journey. Remember, your doctors are dedicated to ensuring your well-being and happiness. The key lies in regular visits to healthcare providers, open communication about any concerns, and active collaboration to achieve your optimal state of well-being. So, go ahead, schedule those appointments, share your thoughts, and let your healthcare team guide you towards living your best life. Here's to a healthier and happier you!
