Physical Exams

What is a physical exam?

A physical exam is an evaluation of your overall health. A primary care provider performs a physical exam. This exam focuses on preventive care so you can get to good health or maintain it. If your provider suspects a health concern or you have a concern, they may refer you to see a specialist or offer tests to learn more about your symptoms. You don’t have to be ill to get a physical exam.

A healthcare provider will check your general health, which includes your:

• Skin
• Eyes and Ears
• Nose and Mouth
• Heart
• Lungs
• Abdomen
• Feet
• Nervous system
• Mental health

For men, a healthcare provider may check your genitals and prostate. For women, your provider may perform a breast exam.

Why do I need a physical exam?

The purpose of a physical exam is to:

• Check your general health.
• Make recommendations about how you can reach or maintain good health.
• Look for any underlying conditions or address any symptoms you experience.
• Get immunizations or vaccines.
• Ask questions and get answers about your health.
• Verify that you’re in good health to work a job that requires a pre-employment physical or to play a sport that requires a sports physical.