5 Reasons Why It’s Important to Schedule Your Physical
January 26, 2021
We are heading into the New Year, which makes it the perfect time to schedule your annual physical!
This is your opportunity to get a review of your current health habits and find out how you can improve your health this year. Physicals can help give updates on your vaccinations, overall health and health screenings you may need.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), seven out of 10 U.S. deaths are caused by chronic disease, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, AIDS or other conditions classified by the medical community as preventable. Getting your physical can help you learn what preventive screenings are vital for your health.
1. Get an overview of your current health habits
One of the best ways getting a physical helps you stay healthy is giving your doctor an overview of your current health habits. They can tell you what you’re doing right and also give you feedback on things to improve. Bad health habits can be hard to break, but your doctor can give you advice on steps to take toward a healthier lifestyle.
2. See important health stats
At your physical, you can expect your doctor to take your vitals. This can include checking your blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate and temperature. Your doctor will also listen to your heart and lungs. The results of these examinations are important for you to note. The exams will help your doctor determine if things are running smoothly.
3. Utilize preventive care services
Your doctor can review your family history and let you know which health screenings you are eligible for and need. If your family has a history of heart disease, then your doctor can advise you on when you should have a heart screening. There are many different factors that can contribute to you being eligible and needing a health screening. Your doctor will let you know what screenings are best for you. You can find an overview of SmartHealth Preventive Care Services here.
4. Find a primary care provider you trust
Getting a physical can help you establish a relationship with your Primary Care Provider (PCP). If you don’t already have a PCP you trust, the New Year is a great time to find one. How can you find a PCP? Find your Ascension Network PCP by visiting mysmarthealth.org and clicking on “Find a Doctor” from the navigation menu. Once you’re at the “Ascension Network Doctor Search,” you can see PCPs by using the “Find by Specialty” drop-down menu, selecting “Primary Care Provider.”
5. Receive Healthy Rewards
When you get your annual physical, you also qualify for Healthy Rewards! This is a great way to stay healthy and save money at the same time. All you have to do is complete the online health assessment for $100 in Healthy Rewards and complete your annual wellness visit for another $125 in Healthy Rewards. Your rewards will be deposited in your Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) based on when we receive your activity completion. Set up your online wellness account with Virgin Pulse to start collecting Healthy Rewards.
Schedule a physical with your PCP today!
