An annual physical exam includes a review of your medical history, vital signs measurement, blood work, age-appropriate screenings, and a full body examination. Most physicals take 20-40 minutes and are covered at 100% by insurance as preventive care — no copay required.
What to Expect
Medical History Review
Your doctor will review medications, family history, lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, alcohol, tobacco), and any new symptoms or concerns. Be prepared to discuss changes since your last visit.
Vital Signs
The nurse will measure blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, height, and weight. BMI is calculated from height and weight. These baselines help detect trends over time.
Blood Work
Standard labs include a complete blood count (CBC), metabolic panel, cholesterol panel, and blood glucose or A1C. Your doctor may order additional tests based on age, risk factors, and symptoms. Many practices use phone and digital tools to follow up on results and schedule next steps.
Physical Examination
Your doctor will examine your heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, eyes, ears, throat, and lymph nodes. Men may receive a prostate exam; women may have a breast exam. A neurological check of reflexes and balance is common.
Screenings
Age-appropriate screenings may include mammograms, colonoscopies, bone density scans, vision and hearing tests, and mental health screenings. Your doctor will recommend screenings based on current guidelines. For healthcare providers managing patient populations, industry-specific solutions help track preventive care completion across your patient base.
How to Prepare
- Bring a list of all medications and supplements
- Write down any questions or concerns
- Fast for 8-12 hours if blood work is planned
- Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing
- Bring your insurance card and photo ID
FAQ
Is an annual physical free with insurance?
Under the Affordable Care Act, preventive wellness visits are covered at 100% with no copay. However, if your doctor orders additional diagnostic tests during the visit, those may be billed separately.
Do I really need a physical every year?
Yes. Annual physicals catch problems early — high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and pre-diabetes are often discovered during routine visits before symptoms appear.
How do I schedule an annual physical?
Find a physician near you and call their office to schedule a wellness visit. Many practices allow online booking.
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