Comprehensive Physical ExamNew York, NY
A comprehensive physical exam is important for helping people get and stay healthy. During these thorough exams, a doctor can construct a complete picture of your current health and assess your risk for future health problems. A comprehensive physical exam is a key component of a healthy lifestyle like a good diet, exercise, and personal hygiene.
Dr. Maria Gafanovich, MD, serves patients in Manhattan and the surrounding area. Make an important investment in your health and schedule a comprehensive physical exam today. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 212-548-3263 today.
What is a Comprehensive Physical Exam
Primary health care providers (PCPs) typically recommend physical exams once a year especially for those over age the 50. This exam is usually a combination of physical examination, interview, and diagnostic screenings that aims at getting as complete a picture as possible of a person's current health. In addition, the doctor will try to identify any potential health problems and issues.
A comprehensive physical exam allows the patient to bring up any troublesome symptoms or health concerns they have noticed recently or over the past year. Also, the doctor can discuss recommended health screenings and immunization updates based on the patient's needs. The doctor will also check in with the patient regarding current medications and advise the patient on maintaining optimal health.
Benefits of comprehensive Physical Exams
This exam is important tool doctors use to help patients maintain their health so they can continue to live their best lives. Another important benefit of these exams is they give doctors a chance to catch a disease early when it is easier to treat. This early detection can be life-saving in some circumstances.
Patients who make this investment in themselves often find this gives them greater enthusiasm for developing and maintaining healthy habits. These exams also allow primary care providers to pass on valuable health advice specific to each patient. Also, patients get a chance to take a proactive role in their healthcare, leading to greater wellness and peace of mind.
What is Included
Dr. Gafanovich starts by reviewing your health history and current health status. This will involve a chance for the patient to discuss their health concerns and ask questions about the process. Then, she will explain what to expect next with the physical exam and the diagnostic screenings.
Next is the physical examination in which she will assess the body's condition. She will be thorough and take into account factors such as skin tone, appearance, weight, heart rhythm, and lung function. She will order a thorough set of labs and diagnostics that may include:
- Assessment of liver enzymes and cholesterol
- Blood glucose levels
- Cardiovascular analysis
- Complete blood count
- Electrolytes
- HDL
- Kidney function
- Lipid count
- LDL
- Muscle enzyme levels
- Thyroid function
- Triglyceride
- Urinalysis
What the doctor includes in a patient's diagnostics will be determined by factors such as the patient's age, health status, and gender. A cancer screening and nutritional evaluation will also be included.
After the testing, she will create a personal wellness profile and discuss it with the patient. The doctor and patient will develop a personal wellness plan during this discussion. This is where the doctor will discuss lifestyle changes that will help you avoid potential health problems and optimize your wellness.
How to prepare
Fasting may be required for the blood tests. Other than that, there is not much the patient needs to do to prepare. The patient will need to provide a complete health history as well as information on their family health history. The doctor will want to know about a patient's current health conditions, medications, and allergies.
Also, the patient should let the doctor know of any medical devices they have and specialists they are currently seeing. The doctor will be thorough in questioning patients about their health. However, we often recommend patients make a list of questions ahead of time to ensure the doctor addresses all their concerns.
Advice for Staying Healthy
Our practice places a premium on patient education, which is a significant part of our comprehensive physical exam. Patient education arms patients with the tools they need to take an active role in their healthcare and enjoy maximum wellness. We give each patient customized advice on the best way for them to stay healthy.
However, some universal health advice. According to WebMD, these are three health tips everyone should follow:
- Complete 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week
- Complete strength training twice a week
- Do not smoke
- Eat a plant-based diet low in animal fats
Schedule a Visit Today
Dr. Marina Gafanovich offers comprehensive physical exams in her Manhattan office. Take an active role in your healthcare and give yourself the tools you need to maximize your wellness. Call our office at 212-548-3263 to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Comprehensive Physical Exam
Q. How long should I allow for the appointment?
A. Appointment times may vary. However, appointments average around an hour. To be safe, we typically advise people to allow about 90 minutes for the appointment.
Q. What will I need to bring to the appointment?
A. Please feel free to bring any health information you feel is relevant. This may include past test results, info on your health history, and your prescriptions. You will also need your picture ID and your insurance card.
Q. Will my insurance cover the exam?
A. Preventative health care is a priority. Therefore, most insurance companies cover all or a portion of a comprehensive physical exam. However, the best thing you can do is contact your insurance provider for specifics on your plan.
Q. How long with it take to get my test results?
A. Many test results are available by the end of the appointment, thanks to our in-house diagnostics. However, there will be other tests that will take 24 hours. Certain test results may take longer.
Q. Will I need to make a follow up appointment?
A. This depends on the patient. If the doctor notices anything concerning in your test results or physical exam, she may want to schedule a follow-up to address that issue. She may also refer you to a specialist if the issue is outside her expertise.
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