Bloomington, Indiana – As the new year begins, medical experts are reminding residents of the critical role annual checkups with primary care providers play in maintaining long-term health. Physicians at IU Health Bloomington emphasize that even when individuals feel well, routine visits can uncover hidden risks and guide patients toward healthier lifestyles.
“Even if you are not feeling poorly or experiencing any new concerns, an annual checkup with your primary care provider can be life saving,” said IU Health Bloomington primary care physician Mike Teague, MD. “It also provides an opportunity to learn about areas of your overall health that you may be able to focus on as you move into the new year.”
During these preventive visits, physicians review patients’ medical histories, update vaccinations, order routine lab work, and ensure all recommended screenings are current. Dr. Teague noted that navigating these guidelines on one’s own can be difficult because they often vary depending on age, personal risk factors, and family history.
“All of these elements play a critical role in preventing long term medical problems,” shared Dr. Teague. “Relying on your primary care provider to help guide you—rather than trying to keep track of these recommendations on your own—is extremely helpful, as they are specifically trained to navigate these complex guidelines which can be affected by age, risk factors and family history.”
The physical exam portion of the appointment allows providers to identify subtle abnormalities that may otherwise go unnoticed. Early detection of health issues can be life-changing, as it often allows for treatment before a condition escalates into a serious problem.
“Early identification often leads to treatment before a condition becomes urgent or emergent, and diagnosing and managing medical issues early is always beneficial,” said Dr. Teague.
Annual visits also provide a forum for discussing personal health goals. Patients can explore ways to improve lifestyle habits such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, increasing physical activity, or adjusting diet. Primary care providers can suggest practical strategies and connect patients with specialized professionals, such as dietitians, physical therapists, or personal trainers, to help implement these changes.
These discussions are crucial in forming a personalized care plan that extends throughout the year. A clear plan helps patients understand which preventative measures are needed and when to seek medical guidance.
“While some symptoms are inherently more concerning than others and can be medical emergencies, a general rule of thumb is that any new problem lasting more than 7 – 10 days warrants a call to your PCP for guidance,” added Dr. Teague.
The relationship between patients and their primary care provider is a long-term partnership, supporting health decisions at every stage of life. Providers are trained to consider individual circumstances and needs, making their guidance tailored to each patient’s unique situation.
“This partnership is the foundation of delivering on our promise of providing the best care designed with you,” said Dr. Teague.
For residents looking to schedule a routine appointment, IU Health provides an online tool to find primary care providers by location, specialty, and professional profile at iuhealth.org/find-providers. With preventive care at the forefront, physicians encourage everyone to prioritize their annual visits as a first step toward a healthier year.
By combining routine exams, screenings, and personalized guidance, these visits serve as a cornerstone of wellness, offering patients the knowledge and support to proactively manage their health. With primary care providers as partners, individuals can navigate complex healthcare decisions with confidence and take actionable steps toward maintaining well-being throughout the year.
