What to Expect at Your Annual Physical — And Why You Shouldn't Skip It

"I feel fine" is one of the most common reasons patients skip their annual physical. But feeling fine is exactly when a yearly exam is most useful — because the conditions that cause the most long-term harm, like high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and early-stage diabetes, often have no symptoms at all. Your annual physical is how we catch them before they become serious.

What Happens During an Annual Physical at WAPC?

At West Atlanta Primary Care, your annual wellness exam is a comprehensive appointment — not a quick check-in. It typically includes a review of your medical history and any changes since your last visit, a full set of vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, oxygen saturation, and weight), a physical examination from head to toe, a review of current medications and any concerns you want to discuss, laboratory orders tailored to your age and risk profile, and screening recommendations based on your health history.

What Lab Work Is Ordered?

Routine labs at an annual physical typically include a Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP), which assesses kidney and liver function, blood sugar, and electrolytes; a Lipid Panel for cholesterol levels; a Complete Blood Count (CBC) to check for anemia and infection; and a Hemoglobin A1C if you have diabetes, prediabetes, or risk factors. Additional labs may be ordered based on your specific history — thyroid function, vitamin D, iron studies, or others as warranted.

Age-Appropriate Screenings

One of the most valuable parts of a yearly visit is reviewing which screenings you're due for. Depending on your age, family history, and lifestyle, Dr. Desai may discuss colorectal cancer screening (typically starting at 45), lung cancer screening for long-term smokers, STI screenings, bone density testing, or referrals for mammograms or skin checks. Catching cancer and other conditions early — before symptoms appear — is when treatment is most effective.

Immunizations: Not Just for Kids

Adults need vaccines too, and the annual physical is a good time to review which ones you're due for. Common adult vaccines include the annual flu shot, COVID-19 boosters, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), shingles vaccine (Shingrix) for adults 50+, and pneumonia vaccine for adults 65+ or those with certain medical conditions. We administer vaccines in-office — no separate appointment needed.

Use the Time to Bring Up What's Bothering You

Your annual physical is your dedicated time with Dr. Desai. Come prepared with questions or concerns you've been putting off: fatigue, changes in sleep, weight, mood, joint pain, or anything that's been nagging at you. There's no such thing as a question too small. This is your health — and your appointment.

How to Prepare

Before your visit, try to have your insurance card and photo ID ready, bring a list of any medications (including supplements) you're taking, note any new symptoms or health concerns you want to discuss, and fast for 8–12 hours if you've been told you'll need fasting labs. Our front desk team can tell you at scheduling whether fasting is required for your visit.

Don't Wait for Something to Go Wrong

An annual physical takes an hour. The conditions it catches can take years to develop and be far harder to treat once symptomatic. At West Atlanta Primary Care, we're here to keep you healthy — not just to treat you when you're sick. Book your annual physical online through the healow app or call us at (678) 401-4597. We're accepting new patients 18 and older.