While annual wellness exams are highly recommended for healthy individuals, they can also be beneficial for those at risk for certain diseases and conditions. At-risk populations include those who do not have a regular primary care provider and who have multiple risk factors. Annual checkups can save your life, as a simple two-hour visit can help prevent disease and provide early detection of potential health problems. Also, many health insurance plans offer discounted annual wellness visits to patients 65 and older.
Research shows that many people ignore regular checkups. More than three-quarters of men do not visit their doctor regularly and are 22 percent less likely to get a cholesterol test. This is particularly concerning since men are more likely to have a heart attack than women. However, preventive care appointments are equally important. While it may not feel important, regular visits are essential for detecting any hidden problems, even minor ones.
Not only do routine health checks keep you healthy and prevent disease, they also help your physician catch any other problems early. People do not want to spend money on preventive care, which may ultimately cost them more money in the long run. Additionally, a routine checkup can help identify health risks early, and the results can be invaluable in managing future problems. There are many reasons why people skip routine checkups.
