Prepare for an annual physical
One hour a year that shapes the other 364 days.
You've got this. Preparing today is how tomorrow gets easier.
Your preparation progress
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Adds the event plus preparation reminders at two weeks, one week, two days, and the day before.
Overview
The annual physical is the one visit that is about prevention rather than a problem. Come with your history, your family history, and the questions you have been putting off.
What to expect
- Vitals, weight, and blood pressure
- Review of family history and lifestyle
- Screening recommendations by age and risk
- Lab work before or after the visit
Questions to ask
What screenings and vaccines am I due for?
What do my numbers mean, and which one should I focus on?
What has changed in my family history that matters?
In plain language, what is happening and why is it recommended now?
Plain language is your right. Ask again if the answer is technical.
What are my options, including waiting or doing nothing?
How will this change what I can do day to day, and for how long?
What should I do to prepare?
Who do I call with questions, and what number do I use after hours?
What would make you want to see me sooner?
This turns vague worry into a clear trigger for calling.
Interactive checklists
Check items off as you go. Progress is saved on this device so you can continue later.
Private to this device. Included when you print, export, or save to your Health Binder.
For caregivers and family
What caregivers can expect
- A short visit that moves quickly
- Being asked to step out for parts of the exam
- Instructions given verbally and easy to lose
How caregivers can help
- Take notes with names and times
- Ask for the plan to be repeated in plain language
- Watch the clock so the top questions get answered
Questions caregivers should ask
- What is the single most important thing we should do this week?
- What should make us call you before the next visit?
- May I be listed as an authorized contact?
Recovery and what happens next
Today
Get organized while it is quiet.
- · Confirm the appointment
- · Write your top three questions
- · Update your medication list
The day before
Pack and plan the trip.
- · Pack documents and question list
- · Confirm your ride
- · Set an alarm with time to spare
Right after
Capture it before it fades.
- · Write down what was said
- · Confirm the plan and next step
- · File the summary in your Health Binder
Watch for: Anything you agreed to that has no date attached
Risks and warning signs
Possible risks to ask about
- Every procedure and medicine carries some risk — ask for yours in numbers, not adjectives
- Reactions to medicines, contrast, or anesthesia
- Infection
- Delays or the need for a repeat visit
Warning signs — call your clinician
- · Fever, chills, or a wound that becomes red, warm, swollen, or leaks fluid
- · Pain that keeps getting worse instead of slowly better
- · New confusion, dizziness, or fainting
- · Nausea or vomiting that stops you from keeping fluids down
Red flags — seek emergency care
- · Trouble breathing or shortness of breath at rest
- · Chest pain or pressure
- · Heavy bleeding that will not stop
- · Sudden weakness, facial droop, or trouble speaking
- · Signs of sepsis — fever with fast heart rate, confusion, clammy skin, or a feeling that something is very wrong
In an emergency, call 911. Do not wait for a call back.
Follow-up care
- Confirm the next appointment before you leave
- Ask when test results will arrive and who explains them
- Get the plan in writing through the portal or on paper
Frequently asked questions
Helpful resources
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Prepare Me is educational preparation support from Phoenix Health Compass. It does not diagnose, recommend treatment, or replace the guidance of your clinician. Checklists and notes stay on this device unless you save or share them yourself.