Your annual physical is more than just a routine checkup — it’s your best chance to ask questions, get answers, and take control of your health.
Here are 12 smart questions to ask at your next checkup, from lab work to lifestyle.
A yearly wellness visit is one of the most powerful tools for staying healthy, especially when you come prepared.
Our doctors want to hear from you, and a few thoughtful questions can lead to better understanding, earlier detection, and a more personalized plan moving forward.
Not sure what to ask? Start here.
🩺 1. “What screenings or tests do I need this year?”
Routine screenings can make all the difference when it comes to early detection. Depending on your age, gender, and family history, your doctor might recommend checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, breast or prostate health, colon cancer, or bone density. These quick, preventive tests form the foundation of long-term wellness, helping you catch concerns before symptoms appear.
🧬 2. “How’s my bloodwork looking?”
Your lab results offer a snapshot of what’s happening inside your body. They can reveal everything from your kidney and liver function to your iron and vitamin D levels. Ask us to highlight anything trending up or down compared to last year. Understanding your numbers empowers you to make informed decisions about diet and lifestyle.
⚖️ 3. “Is my weight within a healthy range?”
Weight is only one part of the picture. We can interpret your BMI, body composition, and waist-to-hip ratio alongside blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol. This broader view helps distinguish between healthy muscle and harmful visceral fat, giving you a more realistic sense of your overall wellness, not just a number on the scale.
🫀 4. “What’s my heart risk?”
Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of illness in The Bahamas. Ask us to walk you through your heart-health checklist: blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, family history, diet, and physical activity. Even simple changes, like reducing sodium, staying hydrated, and adding daily movement, can drastically lower risk.
🩸 5. “Am I at risk for diabetes?”
Diabetes and prediabetes affect many Bahamians, often without obvious symptoms. We may recommend fasting glucose or HbA1c testing to see how your body manages sugar.
A quick test today can prevent lifelong complications later.
🌡️ 6. “How can I improve my energy levels?”
If you’ve been feeling drained, don’t write it off as “just stress.”
Fatigue can be linked to nutrition gaps, thyroid imbalance, anemia, or even mental health. Ask us about possible underlying causes, and be honest about your sleep, caffeine use, and exercise habits. Sometimes, small tweaks to hydration, diet, or bedtime routines make a world of difference.
💊 7. “Are my medications still the right ones?”
Your body — and your health needs — can change over time. During your check-up, review every prescription and supplement you take.
Regular reviews ensure you’re getting the benefits without unnecessary side effects or interactions.
🌺 8. “How’s my mental health?”
Physical and emotional well-being go hand in hand. Share how you’ve been feeling: your stress levels, sleep quality, or mood changes.
Your doctor can connect you with counselling or simple self-care strategies that support overall balance.
🧠 9. “Do I need any vaccines or boosters?”
Vaccinations aren’t just for children. Adults need periodic updates too, including flu, tetanus, COVID-19, and travel-related vaccines.
We can check your records and ensure you’re fully protected, especially if you work in healthcare, travel frequently, or have chronic conditions. Staying current keeps both you and your loved ones safe.
👁️ 10. “Should I be seeing any specialists?”
Your family physician is your first line of care but sometimes they’ll recommend a referral for deeper insight.
Depending on your age and risk factors, you may benefit from seeing a cardiologist, dermatologist, endocrinologist, urologist or OB-GYN. These specialists work hand-in-hand with your primary care provider to give you a complete picture of your health.
🛌 11. “How’s my sleep?”
Quality sleep restores every system in the body, from your immune function to your mood. If you’re waking up tired, snoring loudly, or struggling to fall asleep, mention it during your exam. We may screen for sleep apnea, insomnia, or thyroid imbalance, and help you create healthier bedtime habits.
🎯 12. “What’s one thing I can do this year to get healthier?”
End your visit on a high note by asking for one clear, realistic goal — something you can work on right away.
It might be adding a 15-minute daily walk, drinking more water, or cutting back on sugar. Small, consistent improvements compound over time and your doctor can help you pick the one that matters most for your personal health journey.
🎁 Make Your Next Visit Count
Your annual physical is more than a routine appointment — it’s a conversation about your future health. Go in with questions, leave with clarity, and start the new year informed, confident, and ready to take charge of your well-being.
Family Medicine Center offers complete annual physicals designed to catch health issues early, guide preventive care, and support long-term wellness — all provided by our Family Medicine team, led by Dr. Graham Cates.
Need to book your annual physical?
👉 Book your check-up today. 📞 (242) 702-9310 or visit fmcbahamas.org.