Physical Exams

What is a physical exam?

A physical exam assesses your general health. It presents an opportunity to address specific medical concerns, undergo preventive screenings, and meet with your primary care provider. 

You don’t need to be sick or experiencing symptoms to benefit from a physical exam. Bowman Family Medical Clinic, LLC recommends everyone schedule one annually. 

What should I bring to a physical exam?

To get the most out of your annual physical, Bowman Family Medicine Clinic, LLC recommends bringing the following information to your appointment:

• Results from recent lab tests or diagnostic screenings
• Names of the medications and supplements you regularly take
• A list of your allergies
• Information about any medical issues you’ve been diagnosed with
• Questions you’d like answered

Bring paperwork from your coach or employer if your physical is for a sports physical or pre-employment exam.

What do physical exams involve?

Bowman Family Medical Clinic, LLC tailors physical exams to each person’s needs. However, most physical exams follow a similar structure. Your provider will:

• Weigh and measure you
• Check your vital signs (e.g., heartbeat and respiratory rate)
• Review your medical history and ask about your family health history
• Ask lifestyle questions, like if you smoke or drink alcohol
• Examine your ears, eyes, nose, and throat
• Feel your abdomen to check the position and size of your organs
• Test your reflexes
• Examine your skin for abnormalities and rashes
• Feel the lymph nodes in your neck
• Administer any vaccinations you need
• Order lab tests, including bloodwork and urinalysis

Physical exams also include sex-specific screenings. For example, your provider might complete a Pap smear, breast exam, or prostate exam.

What happens at the end of a physical exam?

A physical exam provides an overview of your physical health. After the exam is complete, your provider tells you if they have any concerns about your health and whether you need to see a specialist or undergo additional testing. 

Your Bowman Family Medicine Clinic, LLC provider might also make lifestyle recommendations to improve your health and reduce the risk of future problems. For example, they might recommend nutritional counseling and regular exercise if you’re overweight. If you smoke cigarettes, they might recommend a smoking cessation plan to help you quit.

Call Bowman Family Medicine Clinic, LLC, to schedule a physical exam, or request your appointment online today.