A preventive exam is a highly effective method to detect abnormalities as soon as possible and evaluate your overall health. At Coleman Primary Care in Sterling, Virginia, internal medicine physician Linda Coleman, MD, and the skillful team provide comprehensive, customized physical exams, including sports physicals, Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals, and annual physical exams. They spend adequate time assessing your individual medical concerns and find the best ways to enhance your wellness. If you’re due for a preventive exam, call Coleman Primary Care or book an appointment online today.
Preventive care is health care designed to help you live a long and healthy life and prevent chronic disease. Services like a preventive exam can significantly reduce the risk of chronic disease by allowing your provider at Coleman Primary Care to detect problems even before you notice any symptoms.
Preventive exams involve reviewing your family and medical history, a comprehensive discussion about your health, a physical assessment, plenty of time to answer any questions you might have, and more.
Depending on your age and your current state of health, your provider may recommend additional testing and blood work.
The team at Coleman Primary Care offers different types of preventive exams, including sports physicals, DOT physicals, and annual physical exams:
An annual physical exam is recommended for everyone to allow your provider to keep up to date with your health.
Sports physicals for children and sometimes adults are often required or recommended prior to the beginning of a sports season or before your child begins a new sport. A sports physical can help assess whether it’s safe for your child to participate in a certain sport.
The Department of Transportation medical exam and commercial motor vehicle certification is a test that must be performed by a licensed medical examiner like Dr. Coleman who’s listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) National Registry. The exam is used to qualify drivers to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV).
A DOT physical exam remains valid for up to 24 months, or less in specific cases involving closer monitoring of a health condition.
Preventive exams vary depending on the type of exam. One of the most important parts is your in-depth discussion with your provider. They also usually check your weight, height, pulse, and inspect your body for any unusual growths or marks.
If necessary, they might examine your abdomen and other parts of your body, looking at the size, consistency, location, tenderness, and texture of your individual organs.
The team often uses an instrument called a stethoscope to listen to certain body parts, such as your intestines or lungs. They might also order blood work to evaluate your health, such as your cholesterol or blood sugar levels.
Take charge of your health by booking a preventive exam; call Coleman Primary Care or schedule an appointment online today.