Why Louisiana men need an annual checkup

Okay, gents—when was the last time you went to the doctor? We’re not talking about that time you sprained your ankle or when you caught the flu a few years ago. But when was the last time you visited your doctor when you weren’t sick, just to check in?  

A regular, annual wellness exam is an important part of taking charge of your physical and mental health. While it may seem silly to visit the doctor when you’re not sick or injured, this yearly checkup helps measure your baseline health and catch any issues before they become major problems.  

Not convinced? Here are some reasons why you should commit to seeing your primary care provider every year.  

A wellness exam is only once a year 

We get it. You have a lot going on, and a doctor visit seems like just one more thing on the to-do list. The good news, though, is that you only have to go to the doctor once a year to establish a solid health baseline.  

When you form a relationship with your primary care provider, they can fully understand your medical history and needs as your body and health change. At your annual wellness visit, you and your provider: 

• Review your personal and family health history 

• Update a list of your medicines and other healthcare providers 

• Measure your height, weight, and blood pressure 

• Discuss any problems you’re having with daily activities, such as walking or keeping track of medicines 

• Look for signs of problems, including with memory or mental function 

Pro tip: Schedule your annual exam around your birthday, so you don’t forget. Plus, self-care is a great birthday present to yourself.  

You’re not getting any younger 

As you age, you may experience changes to your physical and mental health that are important to discuss with your provider. You also may need new or different tests and screenings to ensure you’re staying at your healthiest, such as:  

• Blood tests 

• Cholesterol checks 

• Colon cancer screenings 

• Eye exams 

• Prostate exams 

• Testicular cancer screenings 

Let your doctor know about any problems you’ve been having, such as joint pain, memory problems, urination changes, or trouble seeing clearly. The sooner you recognize health changes, the easier it is for your provider to find treatment that works for you.  

Pro tip: Keep a running list of any medical questions or concerns for your provider and bring it to your appointment. That way, you won’t forget to discuss what has been on your mind.  

You live in Louisiana, which is a risk factor 

Louisiana is such a beautiful, vibrant place to live and has so much to offer. However, our state also has some poor rankings when it comes to certain health conditions. We rank over 20% higher than the national average for obesity, and almost 30% higher for adults diagnosed with diabetes.  

You can manage both obesity and diabetes effectively with some guidance and support from your doctor. And an annual exam is the perfect time to develop a management plan. Though you can’t cure diabetes, with the correct care, your doctor can help you prevent the worst aspects of the disease.  

Pro tip: Use LCMC Health’s Patient Portal to help you manage any medications. You can also message your providers directly. It’s easy to enroll, but first, you have to be a patient at LCMC Health.  

Mental health symptoms can be different in men vs. women 

Mental health symptoms can look different for men and women. For example, many men find that depression makes them they feel angry and irritable instead of sad and withdrawn.  

With the stigma surrounding mental health, it’s not always easy to recognize when men need help and support. Men often feel pressure to be “tough” or to “suck it up,” even when they’re struggling. Some see mental health challenges, such as depression or anxiety, as signs of weakness, instead of treatable conditions. 

All these factors can make it harder for men to get the mental health care they need. Fortunately, when you have a good relationship with your primary care provider, it’s a little easier to communicate what you’re feeling. Your primary care provider is used to dealing with mental health issues and can help you find treatment. Use your annual wellness visit as a way to check in with your mental health.  

Pro tip: Find ways to incorporate what you love into your life more often to help lower stress. For example, spend quality time with friends and family or take a walk outside, if that’s your thing.  

You may be leaving Medicare money on the table 

Did you know that Medicare Part B covers annual wellness exams? The first year you have Medicare, you have access to a similar benefit called the “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit. Following this visit, you can schedule an annual wellness exam once a year, at no cost to you.  

As long as your doctor accepts “assignment” (payment in full that comes directly from Medicare), there is no co-pay, and the usual deductible rules don’t apply. That means for many people, it’s totally free to take this important health step—so don’t leave that Medicare money on the table.  

Pro tip: Visit medicare.gov to learn more about getting the most from your Medicare coverage.  

Find a men’s health provider near New Orleans 

Ready to schedule that annual wellness exam? Great, we’re here to help. At LCMC Health, we have primary care providers focused specifically on men’s health, so you get care that’s just for you. Find a new men’s health provider or schedule an appointment today.