Annual Physical

No appointment is necessary. We welcome walk-ins daily from 8am to 8pm at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations. However, you may call ahead to check current wait times if you prefer. Annual physicals typically take 30-45 minutes depending on the complexity of your health history and testing needs.

Please bring your photo ID, insurance card, a list of current medications (including dosages), any previous medical records or test results, and a list of questions or health concerns you want to discuss. If you're fasting for laboratory tests, bring a snack to eat afterward. Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing makes the examination easier.

Fasting for 8-12 hours before your visit is recommended if you need lipid panel (cholesterol) or glucose testing for the most accurate results. You can drink water during the fasting period. If you take morning medications, ask your medical provider whether to take them before or after your appointment. Not all annual physicals require fasting, so call ahead if you're unsure.

Most of our on-site laboratory tests provide results quickly, often during your visit or within the same day. Some specialized tests may take 24-48 hours. Your medical provider will explain which results are available immediately and when to expect any pending results. We'll contact you promptly if any results require follow-up or additional testing.

Most insurance plans cover one preventive care visit per year at no cost to you under the Affordable Care Act. However, coverage varies by plan, and additional testing beyond standard preventive screenings may have associated costs. We recommend contacting your insurance provider before your visit to understand your specific benefits. We accept most major insurance plans and offer self-pay options.

According to guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a comprehensive annual physical includes vital signs assessment, physical examination, health history review, age-appropriate screenings (such as cholesterol, diabetes, and cancer screenings), immunization review, and discussion of lifestyle factors. We tailor each exam to your age, gender, health history, and risk factors to provide personalized preventive care.

Yes, medication management is an important part of your annual physical. Our medical providers can review your current prescriptions, assess their effectiveness, and provide refills when appropriate. If you're taking medications for chronic conditions, we'll evaluate whether your current regimen is optimal or if adjustments are needed. Bring your medication list or bottles to ensure accurate documentation.

An annual physical is a preventive care visit focused on maintaining health and detecting potential problems early, even when you feel well. A sick visit addresses specific symptoms or acute illnesses requiring immediate treatment. Annual physicals are typically covered by insurance as preventive care, while sick visits may have different coverage. If you have both preventive care needs and current symptoms, let us know so we can address both appropriately.