An annual physical, sometimes called an annual physical exam, is a helpful resource in addressing a variety of health problems. Specifically, exams can help patients address problems in their earliest stages, or even before they fully develop. By having your vitals monitored -- and by getting the right health services, screenings, and treatments on a regular basis -- you can take steps to feel and live your best for years to come.
At Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh (DCPP), our focus is providing preventative care through the Direct Primary Care model. That means we’re interested in spending the time and energy it takes to find and target potential risks to your health rather than waiting until you actually become sick or injured. Regular physicals are one of the most important ways of preventing health struggles for you and your entire family.
To schedule a visit or sign up for our services, please contact us or submit an online appointment request for a free consultation. We allow a full hour for new patient appointments.
Schedule Appointment
At Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh, we offer physical services to anyone and everyone signed up for our care. Different physicals are also available to meet a variety of needs and requirements, including:
Note that you can also spend half an hour with one of our doctors during an initial consultation, where you can explore the DPC care model and ask us questions directly. You will have no obligation to register with us following a consultation. No medical advice or treatment will be offered at this consultation.
An annual physical can include any combination of the following:
Yes! Children often need to visit more doctors than adults, just because they’re still developing, and each doctor they visit focuses on a different aspect of their health. (This is especially true during early development, when a pediatric doctor will set a specific schedule for parents to adhere to.) In addition to annual visits, school-age children may also need school physicals and sports physicals.
School physicals are exams conducted specifically to comply with a local school district’s attendance requirements. They focus on general wellness, allowing doctors and families to monitor a child’s growth and development. They also allow families to check in on healthcare scheduling needs, such as vaccinations. However, these short assessments do not go as in-depth as other physicals, so follow-up visits should be made accordingly.
Sports physicals -- or preparticipation physical examinations (PPE) -- are exams conducted specifically to determine if it is safe for a child to participate in a particular sport. These exams focus on medical history and include a physical examination. The results of the PPE will help ultimately families prepare their child for a sport.
For example, if a child is vulnerable to asthma attacks, an inhaler may be prescribed to keep them safe on the field. Your care physicians can also identify areas that may be prone to injury. Many doctors also suggest tips and exercises to help avoid future problems, both during practice and during games.