Five Ways to Make the Most of Your Annual Physical is written by Jennifer Benson, MD, MHA. This is published in the 2026 Spring Summer Edition of Vibrant Senior Options Resource Guide Magazine and as an online post at VibrantSeniorOptions.com.
Your annual physical is one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect your long-term health. Even if you’re feeling well, checking in with your primary care provider each year helps you stay current on preventive screenings, immunizations, and important health conversations.
Five easy tips to help you get the most from your visit:
1. Bring a list of your medications
Include prescription drugs, over the counter medicines and dosage information. If it’s easier, bring the bottles with you.
2. Include vitamins and supplements
From multivitamins to herbal supplements and protein powders, your provider needs to know everything you take to ensure it’s safe and appropriate.
3. Gather your immunization records
If you’ve received vaccines at a pharmacy or another clinic, bring the dates so your provider can keep your records up to date.
4. Know your recent screenings
Bring dates and results for mammograms, colonoscopies, bone density scans, or lab work — especially if they were done outside Skagit Regional Health.
5. Come prepared with questions or concerns
Let the medical assistant know what you would like to discuss. Sharing this upfront helps your provider plan enough time to address your priorities.
Across all five tips, one theme stands out: information. Honesty is important so that we can make recommendations for your health. We strive to be a judgment free zone. We want to support you and work together to improve your health.
Why Annual Visits Matter
Yearly physicals—or Medicare Annual Wellness Visits—help ensure you’re on track with preventive care and can reduce your risk of avoidable illness later.
Don’t Forget Your Family History
Your family health history can influence which screenings are recommended and when to begin them. Even if you don’t know all the details, sharing what you know helps us personalize your care.
At Skagit Regional Health, our providers are here to partner with you—whether you’re managing chronic conditions or staying proactive about wellness.
Find a primary care provider today at www.SkagitRegionalHealth.org/Find-a-Doctor.
Or call 360-848-5555 to speak to someone about choosing a doctor.
Jennifer Benson, MD, MHA, serves as Chief Physician Officer at Skagit Regional Health and is a longtime family medicine provider in our community.
