According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Health Forum, only 82% of Americans received a regular health screening in 2022. Many who forgo annual checkups cite hectic schedules, economic concerns and fear of negative results as barriers to visiting their healthcare provider. Meanwhile, citing a shortage of healthcare providers, some health systems, insurers and experts are now advocating for the end of annual checkups. These experts argue that such appointments do not significantly reduce the risk of death or cardiovascular events and believe discontinuing them could redirect limited provider resources to patients in urgent need of care.
A 2021 study by Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), highlighted the important long-term benefits of annual checkups and advocated for patients to continue scheduling these visits. While the researchers acknowledged that annual checkups have not been shown to prevent heart attacks or reduce mortality rates, they emphasized that such visits “can lead to better detection and treatment of chronic illnesses such as depression and hypertension, increased vaccinations and screenings for diseases like cancer, and improved overall patient well-being after seeing a doctor.” They argue that when patients only visit their doctor for acute health issues, neither the patient nor the provider has the opportunity to address broader aspects of the patient’s health, including emotional and mental well-being.
During an annual check-up, a healthcare provider typically records the patient’s blood pressure and body temperature, measures their height and weight, listens to their heart and lungs, and examines their abdomen for any abnormal hardness or swelling. The provider also checks the patient’s ears, nose and throat, and may take a urine sample to screen for conditions such as diabetes or, for women, pregnancy. Blood tests may be ordered, and vaccines are often recommended. Patients should expect to discuss how they are feeling and address any health concerns. Providers will also ask about and review the patient’s family history of systemic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular, pulmonary or gastrointestinal conditions, and mental health diagnoses. This information helps the provider determine which tests may be needed and when to schedule them.
During a man’s annual physical, the healthcare provider typically examines the prostate and testicles to screen for any abnormalities. For a woman’s annual physical, the provider examines the breasts for changes or lumps, performs a vaginal exam to assess the uterus and ovaries, and may conduct a Pap test to screen for cervical cancer.
Healthcare providers may advise individuals in their 20s and 30s with excellent health that skipping annual visits is acceptable. However, for those aged 40 and older or anyone with a diagnosed health condition, annual checkups are essential.
According to Optum, individuals who turn 65 and have been on Medicare for more than a year become eligible for a “wellness check,” which goes beyond a standard annual checkup. While it often does not include a physical exam, this visit focuses on a one-on-one discussion with a healthcare provider about the patient’s prescription medications, scheduling recommended cancer screenings, and addressing both physical and mental health. The provider will assess the patient’s exercise routine, alcohol and tobacco use, and eating habits. Additionally, patients are screened for depression, changes in mental acuity and balance issues.
In essence, everyone should schedule a visit with their healthcare provider at least once a year unless advised otherwise. Regular checkups are crucial for monitoring physical and mental health, preventing serious illnesses or catching them early when treatment is most effective.
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