Being aware of one's physical health is the key to a happier, healthier lifestyle. This is where annual physical exams come in. While some may choose to skip these yearly tests, they are vital to employee health.
Without routine checkups, specific health concerns could easily be missed, as well as indicators of serious conditions like cancer. By including annual physical exams in your wellness initiative, you can be proactive about preventative care while ensuring employees can achieve their health goals.
What is an Annual Physical Exam?
An annual physical exam is an appointment made with a medical professional. During this time, a physician will perform various tests and screenings to evaluate an employee's overall health in addition to assessing them for any risk of future conditions.
Multiple tests may be included during an annual physical exam, though there is some variation depending on the individual being assessed:
- A vital signs check, such as temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration rate
- A review of height and weight
- Evaluation of all organ systems
- An internal assessment (this varies by physical gender)
- A blood test to examine cholesterol or blood sugar levels
Medical professionals may also ask several questions to aid in their health assessment. For example, the employee may be asked about any substance use or family history that may impact general health.
Why Annual Physical Exams Matter
The human body tells all, and medical professionals obtain a lot of health information through annual physical exams. Not only are they useful as a snapshot of current health, but they are also critical for preventative care, as many health conditions can appear without initial symptoms. In tracking physical changes, it is easier to correctly identify and treat issues that have the potential to become life-threatening.
Assessing General Health
The examination of a person's overall health will vary according to risk factors (i.e. age or family history) and may involve different screenings. An individual may receive a blood glucose screening or may be assessed for their weight through a body mass index (BMI) calculation. These tests allow the physician to recommend lifestyle habits or changes that work to improve one's health.
Again, this assessment provides insight into an employee's current health status while also monitoring for chronic diseases like diabetes or heart disease.
Getting Screened for Cancer
Cancer screenings can detect the disease in its earlier stages, which is when it is far easier to treat. At an annual physical exam, the medical provider will ensure that employees are screened for those cancers which they might be at risk for, including breast cancer, colon cancer, or skin cancer.
Cancer screenings are partly determined by age, along with family history or other factors that heighten risk.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations help protect your employees against dangerous diseases. After a thorough review of their vaccination history, an employee may be recommended several other preventative vaccinations, such as the HPV shot, shingles shot, or hepatitis B shot. A medical professional will walk them through the benefits of each vaccination and how the effects contribute to long-term health.
Updating Medical Records
An annual physical exam is a perfect opportunity for employees to update any medical records that could affect treatments in the future. Changes in medication, allergies, and significant surgeries are all examples of this. Mental health variations (i.e. depression and anxiety) will also be taken into account.
Elevate Employee Health with EHS!
Scheduling an annual physical exam is the first step to a healthier employee collective — and a healthier business. Stay ahead of potential health concerns, all while saving valuable time and money.
Show your employees you care, and make their health a lasting priority. Contact us today to find out more about our employee wellness services.