Ask the Provider: Rebecca Bednarek, FNP

Q: How do I make the most of my annual visit with my primary care provider?

A: Your annual visit is a time to do a comprehensive overview of your health. We often ask a series of questions about your health status, concerns, changes in family or social history. It’s also a good time to update your provider on recent hospital or ER visits, or visits with other specialists.

It is very helpful if you have an updated list of all the medications you
take — both prescribed and over the counter medications, including herbal supplements.

Your provider may have ordered lab work prior to your visit and may review the results with you in detail. Your visit will usually involve a physical exam. You may discuss recommended immunizations based on your age and health status.

The end of the visit is typically working on a plan for the coming year together-setting some goals or scheduling preventive care (mammogram, colonoscopy, dental visits, etc). The annual visit is not the best time to come in with a long list of concerns-if you have many concerns, these are often best addressed at a separate, problem-focused visit. Your provider may have you
schedule follow up appointment(s) based on your health needs.

And remember-you can always call the office if you have questions.

Learn more about our primary care team and locations here.