Seeing a doctor is very important for anyone at any age. It is common for people to only go when they are feeling ill, which shouldn’t be the only reason we visit the doctor’s office. Greenville Health Care is a family practice doctor’s office that can treat anyone at any age. Many of us know we should be going to the doctor, but don’t know how often.

Adult Physical Schedule

• Between the ages 19-21: once every 2-3 years
• Between the ages 22-64: once every 1-3 years
• Age 65 and over: once a year

There are many factors that can change this guidelines, such as if you are a smoker or if you have a chronic illness such as diabetes, depression or other health concerns.

General Guidelines

Both men and women can follow this schedule if they are in good shape to maintain their healthy state.

• Have blood pressure checked every 2 years
• Have all important vaccinations up to date
  • Tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis immunization booster every 10 years
  • Chickenpox and measles vaccination if you weren’t vaccinated as a child
  • Meningitis if you are under 24 and never received the vaccination
  • An annual flu shot

After Age 40

• Get a cholesterol screening every 5 years
• Colonoscopy every 10 years

After Age 55

• Regular lung screenings if you are a smoker or have quit less than 15 years ago
• Annual shingles vaccination after age 60
• Pneumococcal vaccination after age 65

This is a general guideline for both men and women when it comes to their health. Other health concerns and colds can affect these guidelines. There are some extra health concerns that men and women need to consider as they age.

Women’s Physical Schedule

• Between the ages of 18-29
  • Have a complete HPV vaccination
  • Have a pap smear test every 3 years to test for cervical cancer

• Between the ages of 30-49
  • Have a pap smear done every 5 years
  • Start talking to your doctor about mammograms
• Age 50 and over
  • Have an annual mammogram until the age of 75
  • Have a pap smear done every 5 years until age 65-70
  • Complete a DEXA scan to test for bone density once a year

Men’s Physical Schedule

• Age 50 and up
  • Review your family history with your doctor to determine if you should complete a prostate cancer screening
  • At 65 if you are a smoker or have recently quit complete an abdominal aortic aneurysms screening
  • Complete a DEXA scan to test for bone density once a year

We Can Help

Regular doctor visits are important for everyone at any age. Not only can this benefit your health, but it can build a relationship with your doctor who can better understand your history. Completing routine blood tests can create your health track record, which can help your doctor quickly spot any problems. Greenville Health Care is a Family Medical Practice and Walk-In Medical Clinic, contact us today in order to Schedule An Appointment.