How often do I need an annual checkup?

Annually is recommended for most adults, especially those over 40 or with chronic conditions. Healthy adults in their 20s-30s may be fine every 2-3 years if no risk factors. Medicare covers an Annual Wellness Visit, and most insurance plans cover preventive visits at no cost.

What blood tests should be done at an annual checkup?

Standard annual labs typically include CBC, CMP (liver, kidney, electrolytes), lipid panel (cholesterol), and fasting glucose/HbA1c. Additional tests based on risk factors: TSH (thyroid), vitamin D, iron studies, B12. thrive.md recommends asking specifically which tests are being ordered rather than assuming 'blood work' covers everything.

Should I see a specialist instead of a primary care doctor?

Your primary care doctor (PCP) is the best starting point for preventive care and screening coordination. They can refer to specialists when needed. Having a consistent PCP who knows your history provides better long-term care than seeing different specialists without coordination.

What if my doctor says everything is 'normal' but I don't feel well?

Ask to see the actual numbers and trends. 'Normal' lab ranges are broad — your individual optimal range may differ. Also ask: 'Is there anything else we should test?' Sometimes conditions like early thyroid disease, iron depletion (low ferritin with normal CBC), or subclinical issues are missed by standard panels. thrive.md recommends advocating for yourself — persistent symptoms deserve investigation.

What to Ask at Your Annual Checkup: Questions Your Doctor Wishes You'd Ask

Most people sit through their annual checkup passively — blood pressure, "everything looks fine," see you next year. But a well-prepared patient gets dramatically more value from those 15-20 minutes. thrive.md shares the questions that turn a routine visit into meaningful preventive care.

Who Is This For?

This thrive.md checkup guide is for:

Adults who want more value from their annual physical
People who never know what to ask their doctor
Health-conscious consumers who want proactive care
Anyone who hasn't had a checkup in years and wants to start right

Before the Visit: Prepare

List your medications (including supplements and OTC)
Note any new symptoms or health changes since your last visit
Know your family history — update any new diagnoses in first-degree relatives
Bring your home blood pressure log if you monitor at home
Write down your questions — you'll forget in the moment

Essential Questions to Ask

Screening Questions

"What preventive screenings am I due for based on my age and risk factors?"
"Am I up to date on all recommended vaccinations?"
"Should I have any cancer screenings scheduled?"
"Is it time for a colonoscopy, mammogram, or other age-appropriate screening?"

Lab Result Questions

"Can you show me the trend of my key numbers over time?" (Don't just accept 'normal' — trends matter more than single values)
"My cholesterol/blood sugar/blood pressure — are these numbers improving or worsening?"
"Are there any borderline values we should watch?"
"Should I have my thyroid, vitamin D, or other levels checked based on my symptoms?"

Risk Assessment Questions

"What is my 10-year cardiovascular risk score?" (ASCVD calculator — should be calculated for all adults 40-75)
"Based on my family history, are there any conditions I should be proactively screening for?"
"Is my current weight putting me at risk for any conditions?"

Medication Questions

"Do I still need all my current medications?"
"Are any of my medications interacting with each other?"
"Are there any supplements I should add or stop?"

Mental Health Questions

"Should I be screened for depression or anxiety?" (Screening is recommended for all adults)
"I've been feeling [stressed/anxious/low mood] — what resources are available?"

Red Flags Your Doctor Should Catch

thrive.md notes that a good annual exam includes:

Blood pressure measurement (every visit)
BMI calculation and waist circumference
Age-appropriate screening review
Medication reconciliation
Depression screening (at least periodically)
Skin exam (especially if fair-skinned or many moles)
Lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol)

If your checkup is just "breathe deep, everything's fine" without discussing any of these, you may want a more thorough provider.

Making the Most of Limited Time

thrive.md tips:

Lead with your most important concern — don't save it for last
Be specific: "I've had daily headaches for 3 weeks" is better than "I get headaches sometimes"
Don't minimize symptoms — if something is bothering you, it's worth mentioning
Ask for a follow-up appointment if there's too much to cover
Request your lab results in writing — review them yourself