Getting Regular Checkups and Screenings Most people know to visit the doctor if they are sick or have an injury. It is important not to just visit the doctor during these times though. Visiting the doctor regularly can help you stay healthy. This type of healthcare, called preventive healthcare, involves getting an annual physical or wellness exam, regular checkups, vaccinations, and screenings for conditions such as hearing or vision loss. Schools and community healthcare facilities offer some preventive healthcare, such as vision and hearing screenings and vaccinations. To maintain your health, plan to have a physical or wellness exam with a doctor every year. During a physical or wellness exam, a doctor will check your health, screen you for certain diseases and disorders, and give any needed vaccinations. This includes recording basic health information such as height, weight, heart rate, and blood pressure. It also includes examining your body physically to detect signs of any abnormalities. To find a doctor, talk with your parents or guardians or another trusted adult. Research doctors online, read reviews, and check which doctors are connected with your insurance company. You can also call the doctor’s office with any questions. During the physical or wellness exam, discuss any health-related concerns you may have with your doctor. Together, you might spot a condition and prevent it from becoming worse. If a certain disease is common among your family members, discuss lifestyle changes and behaviors that can reduce your risk. Early detection is an important part of disease treatment, so regular checkups and screenings are important. This health information can be tracked over time, allowing you and your doctor to note any changes. Be prepared to make the most of your doctor visit. Write a list of questions in case you get nervous or forgetful. If you have symptoms you want to discuss, begin by telling your doctor what is bothering you and for how long. Ask questions about any medications prescribed, when you can expect to feel better, and how you can best protect your health going forward (Figure 2.14). preventive healthcare medical care that seeks to prevent health conditions from developing includes annual physical or wellness exams, checkups, vaccinations, and screenings Questions to Ask Your Doctor Will you tell my parents or others the information I tell you? If I want to, can I talk to you without my parents in the room? What is causing my symptoms? Is it normal to feel this way? What activities should I do or not do while I’m recovering? How can I prevent this health issue from happening again? How does this medication work? Will this test hurt? Can the pain be lessened? What side effects should I expect? When should I come back to the doctor? Figure 2.14 When you go to the doctor, remember that your doctor has seen and heard it all. Be open with your doctor and ask all of the questions you want to. What other questions can you think of to ask your doctor at a physical or wellness exam? Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 54 Unit 1 Promoting a Lifetime of Health and Wellness