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So what is it? Talking with your doctor. There are health benefits to having a primary doctor and maintaining that relationship. Having a doctor who knows you and your personal history means someone is just a phone call away in times of need.
If you don’t have a main doctor, find one you like. And start building your relationship with an annual health checkup.
Yearly health checkups are like regularly checking in with a friend or family member. You do it so you feel comfortable with your doctor and they know what's going on in your life. Regular visits help keep that rapport with your doctor.
Routine exams help your doctor know what’s going on in your life that might affect your health. They allow you and your doctor to focus on preventing or managing health problems. And your doctor can help you find ways to maintain the parts of your overall physical and mental health that are in good shape.
Annual checkups include going over the basics and what may have changed with your health since your last visit. Your checkup may include:
In addition to prevention, routine health exams and screenings can help find serious problems early. Then your chance for treatment or cure is better.
This visit is the time to cover all aspects of your health, both your body and your mind. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any mental health concerns you may have.
You can lay the groundwork for a good patient-doctor relationship with some basic steps. That allows you to actively partner with your doctor to make treatment decisions that are most likely to work for you.
Scripps Health suggests these eight steps to build a strong relationship with your doctor:
Staying in touch with your doctor means you’ll more likely stay on top of your health.