Whether you are male, female, young, or old, there are 5 essential healthcare appointments that you need to schedule this year if you have not done so already.
We all have busy lives so it makes sense to sit down and make those important healthcare appointments all at the same time. When you plan ahead, you are in control. You pick the time of year along with the date and time that fits best into your schedule, which gives you a lot more options!
By the time you reach your thirties, it’s a good idea to find a single primary care physician (PCP) or a general practitioner. Find someone you are comfortable with and trust. It’s good practice to have a general checkup once a year where your doctor will check your blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and do blood work. Blood and urine tests will show levels of blood count, your fluid balance, glucose, cholesterol, as well as kidney and liver function.
If you have children, find a pediatrician your child can see whenever there is an issue. They may need annual follow ups, or depending on their needs, a regular visit once every two years.
Young adults should also try to find a PCP to establish a health care history, although some may decide to only utilize clinics or urgent care facilities for their specific needs. This particular method is especially helpful if an individual frequently encounters issues with their insurance coverage.
At some point in your life you will most likely need glasses or contact lenses, perhaps even starting from childhood. Make an appointment to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist depending on your vision needs and your age. By age 40 you should see a vision care provider on an annual basis.
At age 65 everyone should make an annual appointment with an ophthalmologist to be examined for glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (or AMD), and cataracts. There are many serious eye diseases that have little to no symptoms, which is why these consistent appointments are so important to attend.
Children should have their eyes checked every 2 years if they have no vision issues, and annually if they already wear glasses.
Annual gynecological appointments are essential, especially for women who are sexually active. Atlanta Obstetrics & Gynecology will do a breast exam and pelvic exam to check the walls of the vagina and cervix. A pap smear should be done every 3 years for women between the ages of 21 and 65.
It is also highly recommended that ladies be checked for sexually transmitted diseases, urinary tract infections, and yeast infections during these regular appointments with their gynecologist. You will also probably be asked if you would like to be vaccinated for the HPV virus, and be monitored periodically since it does not make you immune to all the strains.
This necessary cleaning should be done twice a year. It will not only keep your pearly whites nice and bright, but the visit will also check for gum disease, any impacted teeth, cavities, and potential movement of the teeth. The annual X-ray will be able to detect any other possible issues that are not visible on the surface. It is your best way to handle any dental problems before they become more complicated and more expensive.
Include the whole family as you plan your yearly health appointments. Consider dermatologists, pediatric ophthalmologists, a mammogram, and a hearing test with an audiologist if you are a caregiver for a senior.
We’re always here to help, so if you have any questions, especially concerning your gynecological health, contact us today by calling (404) 355-0320 or requesting an appointment online!
