Browse services
your locationFind care near me
Search

Annual Physical Exam
in New Brunswick, NJ

Hours
Rating
Distance
Add location icon

Own a clinic? Add your location.

Help patients book appointments with you on Solv. It's free!

Add location

20 instant-book locations

84 Veronica Ave, Franklin Township, NJ 0887384 Veronica Ave
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sun 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
4.63(109 reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in reviews for their clean offices

Sparkling Clean

Carbon Health Urgent Care, Somerset - 84 Veronica Ave
This was my first visit to this location and it was by far one of the best, thank you.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

418 NJ-18, East Brunswick, NJ 08816418 NJ-18
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.62(4.5k reviews)
Atlantic Health System, East Brunswick - 418 NJ-18, East Brunswick
Was a walk in since other location didn’t have an X-ray tech. Front desk person was nice but gave me conflicting information. Was eventually able to go back anyways to get the X-ray and the woman who did the X-ray was very kind.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

149 Pierce St, Franklin Township, NJ 08873149 Pierce St
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Mar 31Closed
4.84(3.9k reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Live Urgent Care, Somerset - 149 Pierce St
First time going to this urgent care and I will definitely go back if I ever need one

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

85 Old Stage Rd, Spotswood, NJ 0888485 Old Stage Rd
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Mar 31Closed
4.93(1.1k reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Live Urgent Care, Spotswood - 85 Old Stage Rd
Had flu symptoms and was able to walk in, check in and waited less than 5 minutes.  Office was clean, staff was very friendly and professional and Dr J. Slatter was attentive to my concerns, tested me and discussed with me a plan of action to rectify my concerns.  I will return to this site.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

1813 Oak Tree Rd, Edison, NJ 088201813 Oak Tree Rd
Open until 3:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • Sun 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
4.61(97 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Edison Urgent Care  - 1813 Oak Tree Rd
everybody from the receptionist at the front desk to DJ the nurse to Sierra the nurse practitioner were very professional, and I was seen promptly. Thank you for such great care.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

119 US-22, Green Brook Township, NJ 08812119 US-22
Open until 7:00 pm
  • Mon 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Tue 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wed 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Thu 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Fri 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sun 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
4.8(44 reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

Carbon Health Urgent Care, Green Brook - 119 US-22
Excellent experience. Staff, cleanliness, explanation of tests and treatment.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

365 Convery Blvd, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861365 Convery Blvd
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.86(37 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Metrodoc, Perth Amboy  - 365 Convery Blvd

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

1569 US-22, Watchung, NJ 070691569 US-22
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.42(3.7k reviews)
Atlantic Health System, Watchung - 1569 US-22, Watchung
Staff Great efficient friendly compassionate Dr relaxing manner Overall experience was terrific

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

1325 US-206, Montgomery, NJ 085581325 US-206
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sun 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
4.76(68 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Carbon Health Urgent Care, Skillman - 1325 US-206
Loved everything. No wait. Was in and out in 20 minutes. Nurse and Dr super friendly and answered all of my questions. I will be back!!!

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

298 Applegarth Rd, Monroe Township, NJ 08831298 Applegarth Rd
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
4.81(194 reviews)
This clinic is rated highly in patient reviews and ratings

Highly Rated

Carbon Health Urgent Care, Monroe - 298 Applegarth Rd
It was excellent and Lex was very helpful!!

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

167 US-9, Englishtown, NJ 07726167 US-9
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.77(160 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Carbon Health Urgent Care, Marlboro - 167 US-9
All went smoothly. Staff - from Reception to healthcare providers were courteous, friendly and knowledgeable. I’ve used a few Instacares in the past but this one was the best.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

415 W St Georges Ave, Linden, NJ 07036415 W St Georges Ave
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.69(4.3k reviews)
Atlantic Health System, Linden - 415 W St Georges Ave
Beautiful experience with a female doctor

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

200 US-22, Springfield, NJ 07081200 US-22
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.61(4.2k reviews)
Atlantic Health System, Springfield - 200 US-22, Springfield
Staff and Doctor were remarkably professional, friendly and personable. The waiting room was so busy and packed and yet every employee I dealt with was patient, kind and caring. Wait time was reasonable considering all of the walk ins.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

141 Chestnut St, Roselle Park, NJ 07204141 Chestnut St
Open until 7:30 pm
  • Mon10:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Tue10:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Wed10:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Thu10:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Fri10:00 am - 7:30 pm
  • Sat12:00 pm - 4:45 pm
  • Sun12:00 pm - 4:45 pm
4.89(19 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

NJUCARE Urgent Care - 141 Chestnut St
They were fast and efficient. Medication sent over immediately. My new urgent care.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

3371 Brunswick Pike, Trenton, NJ 086483371 Brunswick Pike
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Sun 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
4.62(95 reviews)
Carbon Health Urgent Care, Lawrenceville - 3371 Brunswick Pike
Today is the first time I learned about Carbon Health when it was recommended to me by the local CVS. Everything about my visit today was excellent! They are definitely my new urgent care center and I plan on telling my friends and family all about my pleasant experience there this morning.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

800 Denow Rd, Pennington, NJ 08534800 Denow Rd
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Mar 31Closed
4.9(1.6k reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Live Urgent Care , Pennington - 800 Denow Rd
Great place, friendly doctors and staff. Takes more time with you and explains everything and answers any questions you have. Highly recommended.

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

568 NJ-10, Hanover, NJ 07981568 NJ-10
Open until 6:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • SatClosed
  • SunClosed
3.5(4 reviews)
Neighborhood Urgent Care, Whippany - 568 NJ-10
Outstanding ! Told people. Lovely caring attentive. Omg. I sent to urgent care morris plains. Wow. Jennifer outstanding. Ty

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

220 Bloomfield Ave, Bloomfield, NJ 07003220 Bloomfield Ave
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
4.6(95 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

AFC Urgent Care, Bloomfield - 220 Bloomfield Ave

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

142 NJ-35, Eatontown, NJ 07724142 NJ-35
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
4.64(145 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Carbon Health Urgent Care, Eatontown - 142 NJ-35
Excellent! What more is there to say!?

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now

200 Wyckoff Rd, Eatontown, NJ 07724200 Wyckoff Rd
Open until 8:00 pm
  • Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Tue 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Thu 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
  • Sat 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Sun 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
4.92(582 reviews)
This clinic has shorter than average waiting periods

Short Wait Time

Family First Urgent Care, Eatontown - 200 Wyckoff Rd
Experience was excellent. All the staff were amazing Kristen and Emily were great!

AVAILABLE TIMES

Call now
Add location icon

Own a clinic? Add your location.

Help patients book appointments with you on Solv. It's free!

Add location

Physical Exam FAQs

  • How much does a physical exam cost in New Brunswick?

    Without insurance, a physical exam can cost anywhere between $50 and $200. With insurance, the cost of a physical exam is usually completely covered at least once a year, or requires a copayment of $10 to $50. Book a physical exam today to get estimated costs in New Brunswick today.

  • How can I book a physical exam in New Brunswick?

    If you are looking for a physical exam in New Brunswick, Solv can help you book an appointment. Simply search for New Brunswick-area doctors, find a provider, and book the most convenient time for you. Be sure to include “physical exam” as your reason for visit.

  • Where can I get a physical exam in New Brunswick?

    In general, physical exams will be available at New Brunswick-area urgent care centers, retail clinics and primary care doctor offices. While walk-in appointments are typically available, booking a visit online will reduce your wait time and ensure you get a physical as quickly and easily as possible.

  • Can I make a same-day appointment for a physical exam in New Brunswick?

    Same-day and next-day appointments for physical exams can easily be booked directly through Solv. Simply search for New Brunswick-area doctors, find a provider, and book an appointment for a physical as soon as today.

  • How do I find the best physical exam clinic in New Brunswick?

    Solv gathers reviews, ratings, and other data on New Brunswick-area general practitioners to ensure the clinics provided meet our standards. Search for a provider, see what previous patients think, and book an appointment with a top-rated doctor today!

  • Who should get a physical exam?

    It is generally recommended that everyone get a physical exam yearly. This can help detect problems early and begin treatment as early as possible. While the components of your physical may vary with age, it is important to have one annually at all ages.

  • Are video visits available with physical exam clinics in New Brunswick?

    Although a complete physical exam cannot be completed over telehealth, your doctor may offer an annual wellness visit (AWV). An AWV is designed to evaluate patients over video and can replace annual physicals for individuals who have already established a relationship with their provider. AWVs do not require BMI and blood pressure measurements. These can either be self-reported or delayed.

  • Is a physical exam covered by my insurance?

    Many health insurers offer one annual physical for free. If the visit isn’t completely covered, patients will have to pay a $10 to $50 copay. It is uncommon for medical insurances to not offer annual physical coverage.

  • Are video visits with general practitioners covered by my insurance?

    AWVs are generally covered once per calendar year. Your insurance coverage for in-person physicals will be similar to the coverage provided for AWVs. Book a telemedicine visit to see estimated costs in the New Brunswick area.

Recent Physical Exam Reviews (20)

I come here to get my Son's school physical for winter basketball. I was blessed with friendly and welcoming lady at front desk. Nurse and Dr. Was amazing and caring. Just a awesome blessed guest experience. Keep up the good work.

- Verified patient on 11/14

Great place to go when you can’t get an appointment with your doctor. Very friendly and helpful from the front desk to the visit with the doctor. I felt better walking out the door, not physically of course, but confident with the level of professionalism and genuine care! I’ll 100% recommend!

- Verified patient on 6/17

I fully understand that when we look for a doctor , we are usually already physically and mentally debilitated , but the customer service from the receptionist to the consultation with the doctor must take this into consideration since this is the natural work environment in which they proposed to work . I felt a lack of empathy in the service provided at the front desk perhaps because of the visit time close to closing, which in my opinion does not justify it.

- Verified patient on 6/10

I needed to get sports physical for my son and I was not able to book online, so I walked in and was able to get it done

- Verified patient on 12/20

Pretty good experience. I had a tooth infection as badly needed antibiotics. I really wish the doctor would have given me some pain pills. My guns were clearly swollen and I was up all last night in crying pain. Doctors are so hesitant to prescribe pain pills due to the opioid crisis, but they should be in tune when there is evidence actually showing of patients who need them. As the doctor had acknowledged, “Motrin can not touch this kind of tooth pain.” Please consider that everyone is not a drug addict. Thank goodness, I got some sleep today, and the antibiotics are working to alleviate some pain, however I missed a day of work due to the pain and I’m having to call out tomorrow as well just in case. Again, please assess individuals individually especially when there is clear physical evidence of pain.

- Verified patient on 7/20

Tamica was courteous, thorough and above all, reassuring. She listened to my concerns and answered all of my questions. I still feel physically crappy but emotionally I feel much better.

- Verified patient on 4/12

Extremely professional staff. Knowledgeable and caring. Take the time to make sure patient is comfortable (physically and emotionally). The same experience as a regular medical practice. Great bedside manner. Medical insurance covers costs. Wait time wasn’t too problematic considering they abide by all COVID protocols.

- Verified patient on 11/22

I love the fact that we did not have to stand outside in the cold weather in order to check in. Also it’s very good that we were able to leave the site while we waited. I understand that you are overworked and there are just too many people that need the Covid test. But, I was there at 7:30 in the morning and did not get called in until 1:30 in the afternoon. Is there a way to sign in on the computer without having to physically be there first.? Once I got in. It was a wonderful experience. Everyone deserves a gold star!

- Verified patient on 11/17

Surprisingly a wonderful experience. Pleasant, warm, friendly and knowledgeable staff. The physical appearance of the reception and examining area is very pleasant and welcoming. It is a very clean and safe environment with Covid 19 protocol noticeable everywhere.

- Verified patient on 11/23

I reviewed only two patients for injury! one had an knee inj not serious level of care but not sure the other pt med needs! Only two pt prior to me was waiting for Covid 19 tests waiting prior to me signing into the medical facility! I sat over 2:45 mins! The knee pt came in after me and wait was only less than 1h seen by physical and discharge! No way I should have been there three hrs Waiting to be treated! It was not that busy! Not at all! They had more phone calls then pt needing med attention!

- Verified patient on 4/6

Everyone was professional and friendly. The nurse practitioner help with additional information that I might need. Just a positive experience when I was feeling physically very poorly.

- Verified patient on 11/8

I was seen quickly and the provider was direct and helpful, yet still warm. I’m so appreciative of services such as these when coming into a physical location is just not possible.

- Verified patient on 9/21

Dr. Islam was very kind and courteous as well as concerned for not only my physical but also mental health. The tele visit was quick, efficient , and very helpful; relaxing my fears and helping to put me on the road to recovery. Thank you Dr Islam, and the staff of Prompt MD!

- Verified patient on 4/6

We came in for a n emergency physical for camp. The staff was wonderful, took us in no problem. The I wanted a rapid test for my daughter, again, the staff very accommodating even though it was late. Very nice staff in this Mt. Ephraim location

- Verified patient on 8/12

Went in for my BSA physical for summer camp and i forgot one part of the form. They let me wait until my daughter brought the needed form so I can complete my physical. Very helpful and understanding.

- Verified patient on 8/5

I went in to get a rapid antigen test for travel. From the online scheduling through the results, everything was seem less. I got there 10 mins before my appointment time and was seen on time. All of the staff was friendly and professional. I let the tech doing the testing know that it was my first time and I was nervous. She assured me she would take her time and explained thoroughly the procedure and showed me the testing stick she would use. It was painless and I only felt a tickle in the back of my nostril. I was given my physical results in 10 mins. The Dr on staff even came in after the test was done to introduce himself and say hello. This was a rare and surprising visit and I will recommend this office and won’t hesitate to go back.

- Verified patient on 3/22

Amazing people!! I need to go get a physical at 9pm and they were willing to work with me even though I had issues with my insurance. I highly recommend if you want fast and friendly services.

- Verified patient on 11/1

Easy in, easy out. My visit was for my CDL physical. Very professional staff. I've already recommended this place to my coworkers. I work for Amtrak, so I have a ton of coworkers! Can't say enough about this place! Very nice facility!!

- Verified patient on 4/5

They made me feel comfortable. They were professional and informative. Dr. took time to answer any questions I had and not rush me out but took his time with me. Which made me feel he was concerned about my health and how I was feeling physically and mentally. Thank you for quality care

- Verified patient on 2/5

Staff was wonderful, everyone from the receptionist to the nurse to the doctor. It was a pleasant visit for my daughter’s physical!! Quick & thorough. I would definitely recommend to anyone.

- Verified patient on 11/26

New Brunswick Physical Exams

A annual physical exam (or annual well visit) is a routine check-up where a doctor or healthcare provider checks you for routine health issues and asks you basic questions about your health. During a physical exam, the doctor will most likely go over your medical history and ask you questions about the current state of your health. They'll also check vital signs like your heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature, as well as take a look at whether your skin appears healthy. You'll also get a head and neck exam, a lung exam (using a stethoscope), an abdominal exam, a neurological exam, and more. Women may get a breast and pelvic exam and men may get prostate, penis, testicular, and hernia exams.

Annual exams are important because they can help you find out about health issues early on so treatment can begin as soon as any problems are discovered. If you're overweight or you're at risk for diabetes, you'll most likely get a blood sugar test too. Everyone over the age of three should have a physical exam every year. At age 50, your doctor might start screening for colorectal cancer. At 40, women should begin getting regular mammogram screenings for breast cancer. Women ages 45 to 54 should get them yearly and women 55 and older should get them (at minimum) every two years.

More Details about Physical Exams

A physical examination is frequently done as part of a doctor's routine checkup. You can better prepare for your next medical appointment by learning more about what happens during a physical exam.

Physical examination

A physical examination is when your healthcare practitioner examines and studies your body to determine whether you have a physical health concern. Inspection, palpation, auscultation, and percussion are the four components of a physical examination, according to the National Library of Medicine (NLM).

Your doctor examines your body for concerns such as skin imperfections during the examination. According to the National Library of Medicine, palpation is the process of feeling your body with your fingers or hands, such as when a doctor feels for a tumor or mass.

Auscultation is a procedure in which your doctor listens to sounds, such as your heartbeat. Percussion entails making noises, such as tapping on various body parts. According to the National Library of Medicine, this is normally done to establish the size and consistency of your organs, as well as the presence or absence of fluids in specific locations.

The purpose of an annual physical exam

An annual physical exam, according to the National Library of Medicine, can help you detect and prevent health concerns you may not be aware of.

A yearly physical exam is used to check for diseases such as cancer and to see whether you are at risk for certain health issues such as diabetes. According to the National Library of Medicine, a yearly physical checkup allows you to stay up to date on vaccines and other preventative health treatments, as well as make good lifestyle choices that improve your overall health. Another advantage of getting an annual physical examination is that you can keep in constant contact with your doctor if you acquire an illness or chronic disease.

How to prepare for a physical examination

According to the National Library of Medicine, arriving prepared for your appointment can help you get the most out of your visit and avoid unnecessary follow-ups with your doctor.

First, go over your family's medical history and be ready to discuss any health conditions that run in your family, such as high blood pressure, cancer, or diabetes. According to the National Library of Medicine, your doctor may use this information to see if you're at risk for these same health issues.

The National Library of Medicine suggests that you check to see whether any general checkups or vaccines are needed. If you're not sure, call your doctor ahead of time so you can dress correctly or make extra arrangements if you need to go through specific tests.

Lastly, the NLM suggests writing down a list of issues and questions to mention during your appointment. For example, if you’ve been experiencing any new or different symptoms, write these down so your doctor can examine you for related health problems.

How a physical examination is performed

According to the National Library of Medicine, the manner in which your physical exam is conducted is mostly determined by your gender and age, due to changes in anatomy and health problems that affect different age groups.

Male examination

According to the National Library of Medicine, males between the ages of 18 and 39 have their height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) examined at every appointment. Males in this age bracket may be questioned about mental health issues such as depression, as well as their eating, exercise, and substance use habits. Blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and heart disease may all be checked.

According to the National Library of Medicine, men aged 40 to 64 receive the same services as men aged 18 to 39, as well as screenings for colorectal cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and osteoporosis. Men in their sixties and seventies may also be asked about their medications and whether they have recently fallen.

Female examination

At each checkup, females between the ages of 18 and 39 will have their height, weight, and BMI measured. According to the National Library of Medicine, females should have their blood pressure tested every one to two years, and cervical cancer screenings should begin at the age of 21. During their regular physical, females in this age bracket may also have diabetes and cholesterol screenings.

According to the National Library of Medicine, women between the ages of 40 and 64 receive all of the same services as younger women, as well as lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and osteoporosis screenings. Women over the age of 65 may be subjected to routine mammograms and may be asked about any medications they are taking.

Lab tests

Based on the findings of your physical exam, your doctor may prescribe lab tests to confirm or rule out one or more diseases. The NLM says that lab tests may be used as part of examinations for disorders like colorectal cancer and cervical cancer.

Before your appointment, call your doctor to find out if you'll be having lab tests and what they'll entail so you can make the required preparations.

Following up after a physical examination

If one of your screens or lab tests comes back positive or inconclusive, you may be contacted following your physical examination. In such cases, your doctor will contact you to discuss treatment options or to prescribe more testing and screening. Your doctor can tell you more about what to expect after your physical exam in terms of follow-up.

Sources

Solv has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

  1. Physical examination (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002274.htm
  2. Percussion (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002281.htm
  3. Physical exam frequency (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002125.htm
  4. Health Checkup (September 15, 2021)
    https://medlineplus.gov/healthcheckup.html
  5. Health screenings for men ages 18 to 39 (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007464.htm
  6. Health screenings for men ages 40 to 64 (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007465.htm
  7. Health screenings for men age 65 and older (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007466.htm
  8. Health screenings for women ages 18 to 39 (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007462.htm
  9. Health screenings for women ages 40 to 64 (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007467.htm
  10. Health screenings for women age 65 and older (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007463.htm
  11. The 411 on common lab tests (November 19, 2019)
    https://magazine.medlineplus.gov/article/the-411-on-common-lab-tests
  12. Vital signs (February 4, 2022)
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002341.htm

Related searches

This site uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. By using Solv, you accept our use of cookies.