Annual Physical Exam
What Is an Annual Physical Exam?
An annual physical exam is a routine, preventive care appointment that gives your doctor a clear picture of your health from head to toe. Also called an annual health check-up or annual wellness exam, it is one of the most consistent things you can do to catch problems early, before symptoms appear and before small issues grow into bigger ones.
At The UMC, family physicians conduct these exams. No lengthy emergency room wait, and no referral required. Windsor-Essex residents can access a complete physical exam the same day they walk in.
Many people skip their annual exam year after year simply because nothing feels urgently wrong. That is exactly the point of a routine physical exam. It is how you find out about rising blood pressure, a borderline lab result, or a health screening you are overdue for – before you have symptoms to explain.
What Does a Complete Physical Exam Include?
Medical History
A review of your medical history, including current medications, past conditions, and family history
Vital Signs
A review of your medical history, including current medications, past conditions, and family history
Family History
A review of your medical history, including current medications, past conditions, and family history
Physical Examination
A physical assessment of your heart, lungs, abdomen, and other body systems
Vision & Hearing Check
A basic assessment of your eyesight and hearing capabilities
Lab Work & Tests
Blood work and lab requisitions, if your physician determines tests are appropriate
Immunizations
An immunisation review with update recommendations
Health Screenings
Age-appropriate health screening referrals
Patient Consultation
Time to discuss any symptoms, concerns, or questions
What to Bring to Your Annual Physical Exam Appointment?
- Your Health Card
- A list of current medications, including vitamins and supplements
- Recent lab results, specialist letters, or diagnostic reports if you have them
- Notes on any symptoms or concerns you want to raise
- Your family medical history if this is your first visit
Who Should Book an Annual Health Check-Up?
Every adult benefits from a routine physical exam at least once a year. Some groups have a particularly strong reason to make it a priority:
- Adults over 40, where the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers rises considerably
- Anyone managing a chronic condition and needing regular monitoring and blood work
- People without a family doctor who need consistent access to preventive care
- Women due for reproductive health screenings – women may also combine their annual exam with our women’s health services.
- Anyone who has not had a health screening in more than a year
Frequently Asked Questions About Annual Physicals
What is included in an annual physical exam?
An annual physical exam at The UMC typically includes a review of your medical history, blood pressure and heart rate measurement, a head-to-toe physical assessment, and a discussion of your current health, medications, and concerns. Your physician may also order blood work, review your immunisation status, and recommend age-appropriate health screenings based on your age and risk factors.
Is an annual physical exam covered by OHIP?
Yes. In Ontario, the annual physical is funded by OHIP as a periodic health review. Eligible residents with a valid Ontario health card pay nothing out of pocket. Most adults can access this exam approximately once every 12 to 18 months.
Do I need a referral or a family doctor to get an annual physical exam?
No referral is required. The UMC is a walk-in clinic, so you can come in without an appointment or call ahead. You do not need an existing family doctor to access an annual health check-up at our Windsor or LaSalle location.
How long does an annual physical exam take?
Most appointments take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If your physician orders blood work or additional follow-up, the exam stays the same length – your lab requisition can be completed at an external lab at your convenience.
What should I bring to my annual physical exam?
Ready to Book Your Annual Physical Exam?
Visit one of our walk-in clinics for an assessment