General checkup is a preventative visit to your health practitioner. It is different from a visit for the purpose of evaluating illness or disease. As ministers of the Gospel and children of God, you must not neglect any part of your being (spirit, soul, body). General checkup of all three parts is a must. Here, we will focus mainly on the physical body.
The Goal of General Checkup
- To better understand your health status.
- To screen for disease and start early intervention.
- To promote a healthier lifestyle.
- To provide an opportunity to speak with your health practitioner regarding any questions or concerns about your physical and mental wellbeing.
- To ensure you are up to date on your vaccinations.
Living in health is important in the effective execution of your calling as a child of God and a minister of the Gospel.
What to Expect
Specifics of a general checkup vary from patient to patient. However, most patients can expect the following:
- Your health practitioner may ask questions about certain lifestyle behaviors including diet, exercise regimen, use of tobacco products or alcohol, family history of certain diseases, and so on.
- Evaluation of basic vitals including height, weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, heart rate, hearing, and vision.
- Examination of your ears, nose, and throat; listening to your heart, lungs, and stomach.
- Screenings for certain types of cancer including prostate exams for men and breast exams for women. These include mammogram and colonoscopy.
- Blood tests, to check cholesterol levels and for potential diseases like diabetes, anemia, and thyroid issues.
Other Considerations
- In some parts of the world medical insurance has a big influence on what specific tests the patient should undergo (e.g., United States of America).
In some parts of the world, healthcare is free (e.g., Canada). - Many countries have no health insurance or free healthcare system, leaving people with no option but to solely fund their healthcare needs.
- This should not discourage you from general checkups.
- This is even more reason why you should seek preventative care.
- Don’t wait for problems to start before you seek healthcare.
- There may be low-cost or free resources if only you would do the research.
