Urgent Care Physical Exam

A physical exam is a comprehensive evaluation of a person’s overall health. Typically, it is performed by your primary care physician. However,  scheduling an appointment at a hospital or practice can be difficult, and wait times can be long. 

At Urgent Care of Lincoln, our goal is to make quality healthcare accessible and straightforward so you can maintain your health without disruption to your busy life. In line with that aim, we provide a wide range of healthcare services tailored to our patients’ needs, including physical exams. 

We encourage you to explore our range of services and reach out to us to learn more.

Urgent Care Clinic Of Lincoln
4210 Pioneer Woods Dr a
Lincoln, NE 68506
(402) 488-4321
Directions: Urgent Care Clinic

Benefits of Annual Medical Exams

A physical is a routine checkup performed by a medical professional. It involves a series of assessments and tests to identify potential health issues and promote preventive care. Most medical professionals recommend an annual physical, although some individuals may need to get routine health checkups more or less often depending on their ages, health conditions, and other factors. 

Some employers may also require their workers to undergo a yearly physical as part of their efforts to promote employee health and safety. Additionally, many insurance carriers require annual physical exams to maintain coverage.

Annual exams offer a range of benefits, including the following: 

It Establishes a Health Baseline

An annual physical establishes a health baseline by providing a snapshot of an individual’s current health status. This baseline includes body measurements, vital signs and biomarkers like heart rate, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. 

Changes in your baseline may indicate underlying or developing health issues. By setting a baseline, your healthcare provider can monitor your health over time, identify potential problems early on, and recommend appropriate interventions.

Personalized Health Advice

An annual exam is an opportunity to discuss your unique health needs and concerns. It allows your doctor to provide tailored advice on lifestyle, nutrition, exercise, and any necessary preventive measures.

Early Detection of Health Issues

Regular physical exams make it easier to catch health conditions in their initial stages, when treatment is often simpler and has a higher chance of success. Early detection can be particularly beneficial for managing issues like hypertension, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Monitoring of Chronic Conditions

For individuals with chronic conditions, such as asthma or high blood pressure, yearly checkups ensure that these conditions are well-managed and adjustments to treatment are made as needed.

Ensuring Vaccinations Are Up-to-Date

Staying up-to-date on vaccinations is essential for protecting against diseases. Your provider can determine which vaccines are due and discuss any additional recommendations based on your age, lifestyle, and travel plans. 

Screenings and Other Preventive Care Measures

Annual exams often include screenings for conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, and various types of cancers, helping to identify risk factors and protect your long-term health.

What to Expect During the Exam

A typical annual medical exam may last 30 minutes to an hour. It will include a series of tests and procedures, such as blood pressure checks, heart and lung assessments, and any necessary lab work. 

 

Parts of an Urgent Care Physical Exam

An urgent care physical exam involves several steps that, together, create a full picture of your overall health. Here’s what typically happens during an urgent care physical exam.

 

  • Medical History Review: The exam begins with a review of your personal and family medical history. Your provider will discuss past illnesses, surgeries, and chronic conditions. They will also review your current medications, including supplements, to assess potential interactions or if any need their dosage adjusted.
  • Physical Examination: During the physical examination, the provider will check vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature. 
  • Laboratory Tests: Blood tests are often part of the exam. These are used to obtain laboratory values for cholesterol, blood sugar, and other important markers. A urinalysis may also be included to check kidney function and identify signs of infection or other issues.
  • Screenings and Preventive Measures: Based on your age and health status, your provider may recommend cancer screenings, like mammograms or colonoscopies, and bone density tests to assess your risk for osteoporosis. Your immunizations are also reviewed to ensure they’re current.
  • Lifestyle and Risk Factor Evaluation: An essential part of your urgent care physical exam involves discussing your lifestyle habits, such as diet, exercise, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Your provider may also evaluate your mental health and provide guidance or referrals if needed.

 

Preparing for Your Exam

Preparation helps you make the most of your exam. At a typical clinic or hospital, you’d start by scheduling an appointment. However, many urgent care facilities like Urgent Care of Lincoln accept walk-ins, so you won’t be required to book in advance.

 

Bring any relevant medical records, a list of medications you take, and insurance information. For tests requiring fasting, such as blood sugar and cholesterol tests, follow your provider’s instructions to ensure accurate results.

After the Exam

Once your physical at an urgent care facility is complete, your provider will review your test results and discuss any follow-up appointments or recommended lifestyle adjustments. If additional tests or treatments are needed, your provider will offer guidance on the next steps.

 

Choosing the Right Healthcare Provider for Your Urgent Care Physical Exam

Selecting a healthcare provider is a personal choice, and several factors can help ensure the provider meets your needs. Consider the provider’s credentials and experience, as well as feedback from patient reviews. A comfortable, open doctor-patient relationship fosters trust and ease in discussing health concerns.

Insurance Coverage and Costs

Many insurance plans cover annual exams, but coverage specifics can vary. It’s wise to check with your insurance provider regarding your plan’s benefits, including potential out-of-pocket expenses. Reviewing coverage details in advance will clarify what to expect financially, avoiding surprises on exam day.

No Appointment Is Necessary. We Are A Walk-in Urgent Care Clinic
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