Having an annual health maintenance evaluation is one of the best ways to take control of your health — and to get out in front of potential health issues before they become major problems. Below we’ve answered a few helpful questions explaining a little bit more about health maintenance evaluations, and why they’re important for you and your family.

What does an annual health maintenance evaluation address?

An annual health maintenance evaluation allows your doctor to make recommendations and give advice that will help keep you in good health. It also lets your doctor focus on your health history, which is important because they’ll be able to determine which tests and screenings are most relevant for you.

If you have a family history of heart disease, for example, you may receive additional blood pressure checks, blood tests and diabetes and cholesterol screenings. If you have a history of breast cancer, your doctor may request more frequent mammograms. These types of preventive measures can go a long way toward keeping you well.

What happens at a health maintenance visit?

First, a nurse or your doctor will update your health history. This may include questions about your job, relationships, medications, allergies, supplements, recent surgeries and more. They will also ask about health behaviors including your diet, exercise frequency and duration, alcohol or drug use, mental health and stress in your life.

Next, you’ll have your vital signs checked. This includes looking at your blood pressure, pulse and breathing. Your doctor will then give you a physical exam focused on high-risk factors identified in your health history.

A health maintenance visit can also include lab tests, where your doctor may draw blood. Diagnostic tests are based on your personal risks or any concerns you’ve identified in your exam.

What screening tests may be recommended for women?

Mammogram. Many national health organizations recommend a mammogram. Earlier and more frequent testing may be recommended based on your personal and family history of breast cancer. Your provider will discuss when they want you to start getting mammograms.

Breast exam. A breast exam can be used to check for abnormal lumps or signs of breast cancer.

Pap smear. A Pap smear is a screening for cervical cancer. Women should begin screening at age 21. After that, subsequent screenings are recommended every three years, as long as the woman has a healthy immune system. After 30, Pap smears are recommended once every five years, until the age of 65. After 65, the majority of women no longer require this screening.

Pelvic exam. A pelvic exam includes examining the vagina, cervix and vulva for signs of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other conditions.

Cholesterol test. Most women should begin regular cholesterol checks at age 45. If you have a history of diabetes or heart disease, you may need to begin cholesterol checks as early as age 20.

Osteoporosis screening. Bone density scans should begin around age 65. They may begin sooner if you have certain medical conditions such as fractures.

What screening tests may be recommended for men?

Cholesterol test. Most men are advised to begin regular cholesterol checks at age 35. If you have a history of or genetic predisposition to diabetes or heart disease, you may need to begin cholesterol checks as early as age 20.

Prostate cancer screening. In general, using the prostate-specific antigen test and digital rectal exam for prostate cancer screening is not recommended, so talk to your doctor. Screening may be advised for some men starting at age 50. It may start as early as age 40 for those with a strong family history.

Testicular exam. If you have pain or a testicular lump, your provider may wish to check each testicle for signs of a problem.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening. This is a one-time screening done with an ultrasound. It’s recommended for all men ages 65-75 who have ever smoked.

What screening tests may be recommended for both women and men?

Colon (colorectal) cancer screening. Tests for this cancer usually begin at age 50. It may be sooner based on personal health conditions and family history.

Lung cancer screening. An annual low-dose CT scan of the lungs is recommended for both men and women ages 55-80 who have smoked for a significant period of time or who are currently smoking. Talk to your doctor to see if your smoking history warrants a lung cancer screening.

Depression screening. Many people aren’t aware of the possible symptoms of depression because they can be easily attributed to other things. However, a depression screening at your checkup can help determine if your symptoms are a result of depression.

Diabetes screening. If you have a family history or risk factors for diabetes — such as being overweight or having high blood pressure or high cholesterol — you should be screened for diabetes. Your doctor may use the fasting blood sugar or A1C test.

Hepatitis C test. All individuals born between 1945 and 1965 are recommended to have a one-time blood test to screen for hepatitis C.

Vaccinations. All adults need vaccinations throughout their lifetime. Talk to your doctor about vaccinations recommended based on your age or medical conditions.

Sexually transmitted infection screening. Based on your personal sexual history, regular STI screenings may be recommended.

A health maintenance evaluation is a critical part of your overall wellness plan. If you’re interested in scheduling an evaluation for yourself or someone in your family, please contact one of our wellness centers.