Annual/Preventive Care vs. Problem Visits
Annual/Preventive Visit
Annual or preventive visits can also be called physicals, annual checkups, or well/wellness visits.
Annual/Preventive visits include:
- Reviewing your medical history
- Discussing factors that affect your health
- Measuring your height, weight, and blood pressure
- Setting a schedule for common tests like cancer screenings
- Reviewing your medication list
- Keeping your immunizations up to date
- Planning for end-of-life care
Problem Visit
A problem visit is to discuss a new health problem (like an illness, injury, or symptom) or chronic health problem. Examples include a concerning cough, new pain, or diabetes.
Problem visits include:
- Discussing the health problem
- Treating any ongoing health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
Combination Visit
Sometimes, you may discuss a specific health condition while at your preventive visit. Your physician or advanced practice provider can combine the visits so that you do not need to make two separate appointments.
