ST LOUIS PARK, Minn. — Getting a physical isn't at the top of the "fun list" for most of us, but it's an important part of staying healthy.
Dr. Paul Anderson, of Park Nicollet, says it's just basic maintenance.
"Just like you would do on anything else - like a house or your car," Dr. Anderson said. "Just like anything else – things can go wrong without you really knowing it."
Dr. Anderson says a family practice, internal medicine and preventative medicine doctor are all great options.
But, who is the best doctor to see?
"The best person to do your annual physical is somebody who knows you and who has a relationship with you," Dr. Anderson said.
If you've had a physical before, you know the drill. The doctor will go through a head-to-toe physical exam, review your medications and search for anything that may have shifted.
"They should be asking you if anything's changed. If you've noticed anything, even if it's small, it can be a signal that something might be changing with your health," Dr. Anderson said.
Knowing that it's a safe space to bring anything up is key to building a relationship with your doctor.
"That's a confidential visit," Dr. Anderson said. "To discuss other issues that are frightening for you - maybe you have some anxiety – or other issues. Hopefully in a good primary care visit, on an annual basis, these can be topics you can discuss."
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