Preventive Care & Annual Physicals in Cumming & Dawsonville

What’s Included in Preventive Care?

Preventive visits focus on your overall health by taking baseline measurements, reviewing your risks, and providing tailored screenings.

Here’s what a typical preventive visit includes:

• Vitals check: Measurement of blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and height to track essential health metrics.
• Medical and family history review: Discussion of personal and familial health conditions to identify potential risks.
• Medication and allergy review: Update and confirm current medications and known allergies.
• Routine labs (if ordered): Blood tests and other lab work as necessary, based on age and individual health risks.
• Health screenings guidance: Recommendations for screenings based on your age, gender, and health profile.
• Vaccine review: Assessment and update of immunizations, ensuring protection against preventable diseases.
• Lifestyle counseling: Practical advice regarding nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management.
• Risk assessments: Evaluations focused on common health concerns like heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.

Preventive visits are designed to proactively maintain your health, but typically do not include an in-depth evaluation of new or complex health issues. These would be addressed in separate problem-focused appointments.

Common Preventive Visits We Offer

Choosing the right preventive visit depends on your health goals, age, and specific needs. At Cumming Family Medicine, we commonly provide:

• Annual physicals: Comprehensive exams covering essential health markers, preventive screenings, and discussions about overall wellness goals.
• Wellness exams and routine checkups: Regular health evaluations emphasizing lifestyle, screenings, and preventive strategies to stay healthy.
• Medicare annual wellness visits: Specialized preventive care covered by Medicare, including personalized health advice, risk assessments, and preventive planning for seniors.
• Screening-focused visits: Appointments dedicated specifically to recommended health screenings (e.g., cancer screenings, heart health assessments).
• Preventive planning follow-ups: Subsequent appointments to ensure your preventive care plan remains effective and adapts as your health changes.

No matter your preventive health needs, our experienced providers ensure you receive personalized, thorough care in a welcoming environment.

What to Expect at Your Visit

We strive to make your preventive care visit seamless and productive. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:

1. Preparation: Bring your insurance card, ID, and current medication list. Fasting is only required if specifically instructed.
2. Exam and discussion: Your provider will complete a thorough physical exam and discuss your personal health goals and concerns.
3. Labs and orders: If necessary, routine blood work or additional screenings will be ordered.
4. Results and next steps: After your visit, results are reviewed with you, and a clear follow-up plan is established.

Our goal is to ensure clarity at every stage, making preventive care straightforward and stress-free. This is conveniently offered at both our Cumming and Dawsonville offices. 

Choose the location closest to you and meet our trusted team of healthcare providers committed to supporting your long-term wellness.

Insurance for Preventive Visits

Insurance coverage for preventive visits varies widely by plan. Generally, preventive visits, including annual physicals and wellness exams, are covered at no cost to you. 

However, it’s important to confirm details directly with your insurer. Additionally, if new or existing medical problems are addressed during a preventive visit, insurance may bill this separately as a problem-focused appointment, which could incur different costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a physical and a wellness visit?
A physical exam typically involves a comprehensive medical evaluation, whereas a wellness visit emphasizes preventive care planning and screenings.

Do I need to fast before my labs?
Fasting is not usually required unless specifically advised by your provider.

How often should I get an annual physical?
We recommend yearly physicals for adults, although frequency may vary based on your health history.

What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring your insurance card, a valid ID, current medication list, and any relevant medical history documents.

Does insurance cover preventive visits?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, fully cover preventive visits. Always confirm details with your insurer.

Can I combine preventive care with other concerns?
You can discuss additional concerns, but be aware that addressing new health issues may change how your visit is billed.