What Is an Annual Physical?
An annual physical is a preventive checkup for when you feel well. It finds silent problems, like high blood pressure or high blood sugar, before they cause symptoms. It also keeps your screenings and vaccines up to date.
Seeing the same provider each year builds a record of what is normal for you, so small changes are easier to spot.
Who Should Get a Yearly Physical?
Most adults benefit from a checkup each year. It is especially worth booking if:
- It has been more than a year since your last checkup
- Heart disease, diabetes or cancer runs in your family
- You are new to Lau Medical
- You are due for screenings or vaccines
Need a signed school or team form? Book school and sports physicals. Having surgery soon? You need preoperative clearance instead.
What Happens at an Annual Physical?
Most physicals take 30 to 45 minutes and have three parts.
- Your health history. We review your medicines, allergies, past illnesses and family history, and talk about sleep, exercise, alcohol and tobacco. Mention any changes in mood, weight or energy.
- The physical exam. Expect a blood pressure check, your weight, and an exam of your heart, lungs, belly and skin. Other checks depend on your age and concerns.
- Screenings, lab work and vaccines. Based on national guidelines, your age and your risks, your provider may recommend:
- Blood tests for high cholesterol and diabetes
- Short questionnaires that screen for depression and anxiety
- Colon cancer screening starting at age 45, and a mammogram referral when due
- A Pap smear or HPV test for women ages 21 to 65, often during a well woman exam
- One-time HIV and hepatitis C screening for most adults
- Recommended vaccines, such as the flu shot, Tdap and shingles vaccine
Blood is drawn at our on-site lab, so there is no extra trip to an outside lab. Results appear in your patient portal, and we follow up on anything that needs attention.
How Should I Prepare?
- Bring your photo ID and insurance card
- Bring a list of your medicines and supplements, or the bottles
- Bring vaccine records if you have them
- Write down questions you want to cover
- Ask when you book whether to fast before blood work
- New patients: arrive 15 minutes early to complete forms
Annual Physical vs Sick Visit: What's the Difference?
| Visit | Purpose | Typical cost with private insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Physical | Preventive care when you feel well: exam, screenings, vaccines | $0 copay in network |
| Sick / Problem Visit | A new symptom, or managing a condition like diabetes or high blood pressure | Your usual office visit copay |
Your annual physical is billed as preventive care. If you have a new symptom or an ongoing condition to discuss, please book a separate appointment so your physical stays preventive. If a concern is addressed during your physical, that part may be billed as a separate office visit.
Does Insurance Cover an Annual Physical?
Yes, in most cases. Under the Affordable Care Act, most private plans cover one preventive visit a year, plus recommended screenings and vaccines, with no copay in network.
Lau Medical accepts most major private plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna and Cigna. Self-pay is also available. Call 773-394-2888 for pricing or see our Billing & Insurance page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Annual Physical
1. How often should I get a physical?
Once a year works for most adults. Some plans cover one visit per calendar year, while others require a full 12 months between visits. Check your plan before you book.
2. Do I need to fast before my annual physical?
Not always. Many cholesterol tests no longer need fasting, but some blood sugar tests do. We will tell you when you book, and water is always fine.
3. How long does an annual physical take?
Most physicals take 30 to 45 minutes, including your history review, the exam and any blood draw.
4. Why did I get a bill after my physical?
If you discussed a new problem or a condition you already treat, that part may be billed as a separate office visit with your usual copay.
5. Can I get my physical by telehealth?
No. A physical needs a hands-on exam and often blood work, so it happens in person. Follow-up visits to review results can often be done by telehealth.
