Physicals

Many people avoid going to the doctor unless they are ill, but regular physical checkups are the best preventive measure against developing long-term health issues. Annual physicals help your provider to find and treat problems early on. Nelley Acheampong-Buadu, NP, and Melissa Ramsey, FNP, perform annual physicals at Tru-Health Urgent Care in Glenn Dale, Maryland, so patients can enjoy good health for years to come. Call the office or request an appointment online today to learn more about having a physical. Walk-ins are available.

What happens at a physical?

The team will ask you about your medical history, general wellness, and lifestyle when getting a physical at Tru-Health Urgent Care.

During your physical exam, the team performs the following:

• Examines your body for unusual growths or marks
• Checks the size and placement of different organs
• Uses a stethoscope to check your heart and lungs
• Checks your weight, height, body temperature, and pulse

If you have any specific questions or concerns, ask one of the friendly and knowledgeable team members. A physical exam is your time to ask any health-related questions.

What should you do before a physical?

Before coming in for your physical, you can prepare the following to get the most out of your time with the Tru-Health Urgent Care team:

• List of medications you take
• List of your current immunizations
• List of any troubling symptoms
• Medical history
• Bring the results of medical tests you want to discuss
• If you have a chronic condition, please bring your latest test results
• Fasting before physical 

Please dress in comfortable clothing for your physical, without any makeup or excessive jewelry.

Are physicals helpful?

Yes. Physical exams allow you to check in on your overall health, which can also help you forge a relationship with your primary care provider. This comes in handy for the times when something is wrong.

During your physical, the team performs tests to check for the following conditions:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Abnormal blood sugar levels 
• Obesity
• Osteoporosis
• Heart abnormalities 
• Cancer

Tests help identify underlying conditions, even if you aren’t complaining of any symptoms. Depending on the results, the team might recommend further testing or modifications to your diet, exercise, and lifestyle regimen, to improve your health.

Are physicals really necessary?

Physicals provide the team of health care professionals with a comprehensive view of your health, helping to catch problems early on and treat them before they develop into chronic health issues.

Regular physicals allow the team to track the progress of your health and goals and note any concerns that come up. These visits also allow you to get to know the team better. They can help you make any necessary changes for a healthier lifestyle.

Your age, personal medical background, family history, and everyday lifestyle determine how often you need a physical, as you may need them more than once a year.

To book your physical, call the office or use the online scheduling tool to make an appointment today.