How Often Should I See My PCP if I Am in Overall Good Health?

Many individuals wonder about the frequency of visits to their Primary Care Physician (PCP) when they consider themselves in overall good health. While it's common to have a board certified family doctor recommend an annual physical, personal experience and insurance coverage suggest that more frequent visits might not be necessary.

How Often Is Recommended?

According to a well-qualified board certified family doctor, a yearly physical is recommended. However, in my personal opinion, this might be overkill for someone who does not have any health concerns. Such a comprehensive examination can take up to an hour and involves invoicing through health insurance.

For a healthier perspective, some individuals feel that such frequent visits are not necessary, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The only person truly qualified to give advice about the frequency of visits is your doctor.

Why Regular Check-Ups Are Important

While you might feel fine in general, there may be underlying conditions that you are not aware of. A doctor can help identify these issues early, potentially preventing more serious problems down the line.

I personally recommend seeing your PCP two to three times per year, especially if you are in good health and not taking any maintenance medications. This allows you to maintain close monitoring of your health, such as blood pressure, which can be easily tracked by yourself. Additionally, individuals with a borderline high A1C might find it useful to monitor their blood sugar at home, without necessarily needing a doctor's recommendation.

Listen to Your Body

It's crucial to stay in tune with your body and understand your health rhythms. You are ultimately your own best health advocate and are responsible for your health. Doctors can't chase you down to perform necessary health checks.

Consequences of Being Unaware

While considering yourself in good health is important, it doesn't equate to being fully assessed by medical professionals. A real-life example can illustrate this: my wife had a friend in her late 30s who enjoyed an active and healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a clean diet. Despite this, the friend tragically passed away from cancer within six months. This serves as a stark reminder that undetected health issues can progress silently, and you should always be aware of the potential risks.

Such situations highlight the value of regular check-ups. By catching potential issues early, you might improve your chances of effective treatment. It's important to be aware of the risks and to periodically check your blood pressure, A1C levels, and other critical health markers.

Social and Emotional Reasons

Lastly, consider the social and emotional reasons for regular PCP visits. There might be people in your life who are genuinely concerned about your well-being. Seeing a doctor regularly shows them that you are prioritizing your health and can help you stay healthy for longer.

In summary, the frequency of PCP visits depends on your individual health status and doctor's recommendations. Regular check-ups, whether annual or more frequent, can help identify and manage underlying health issues, maintain good health, and ensure you are aware of any potential risks.