If you feel fine, it is easy to skip your yearly checkup. But many health problems, like high blood pressure or high blood sugar, cause no symptoms at first. An annual physical is how you find them early, when they are easiest to treat. Here is what to expect at your visit.
Why get a physical if you feel healthy?
Conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and prediabetes often build quietly for years. By the time you notice something, they may already be affecting your heart, kidneys, or blood vessels. A yearly visit lets your physician spot changes early and track your numbers over time. It also builds a relationship with a doctor who knows your history, so your care stays connected instead of starting over each time.
What happens during the visit?
Your visit starts with a conversation. Your physician asks about your health history, family history, medications, sleep, stress, and any concerns you have been putting off. Next comes a full exam, including your blood pressure, heart, lungs, weight, and other checks based on your age. Before you leave, your physician explains what they found in plain language and lays out a plan. At Seven Hills, adult primary care is led by Dr. Venkatesh, who is board-certified in internal medicine.
What do annual labs check?
Most physicals include routine bloodwork. A typical panel checks your cholesterol, blood sugar or A1C, kidney and liver function, blood count, and thyroid and vitamin levels. Your physician tailors the panel to your age, history, and risk factors. Some tests require fasting, so ask ahead of time whether you should skip breakfast.
Which screenings will I need?
Screenings depend on your age, sex, and risk factors. They may include blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screening, along with referrals for cancer screenings like colon, breast, and cervical. Your physician keeps track of what is due and when, so you do not have to.
What if something comes back high?
That is exactly what the visit is for. If your blood pressure, blood sugar, or cholesterol is higher than it should be, your physician explains what it means and what comes next. That might be lifestyle changes, follow-up labs, or ongoing care for a chronic condition. If your results point to weight or metabolic concerns, Seven Hills also offers physician-supervised medical weight loss built on metabolic testing. If your labs and symptoms suggest a hormone imbalance, your physician can talk with you about hormone optimization and whether it is right for you.
How do I prepare for my physical?
Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, your insurance card, and any questions you want answered. Write down any symptoms you have noticed, even small ones. If you have records from another doctor, bring those too. Many insurance plans cover a yearly preventive visit, and our team can help you check your benefits before you come in.
Book your annual physical
Adult primary care is available at all three Seven Hills offices in Brooklyn, Franklin Square, and Melville. Find the office nearest you to book your visit, or call (516) 354-2707.
