Spring is a season of fresh starts — and it’s the perfect time to refocus on your health. While many people wait until something feels wrong to see a provider, preventive screenings are one of the most important ways to stay ahead of potential health concerns.
Preventive care helps detect problems early — often before symptoms appear — when they’re typically easier to treat and manage. If you’ve been putting off appointments, here’s a helpful guide to what you should consider scheduling this spring.
Annual Wellness Visit
If you haven’t had a yearly checkup, this is the best place to start.
An annual wellness visit with your primary care provider allows you to:
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Review your medical history
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Check vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, weight)
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Discuss medications
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Address new concerns
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Plan age-appropriate screenings
Even if you feel healthy, these visits establish a baseline and strengthen your relationship with your provider.
Heart disease often develops silently. That’s why monitoring your numbers matters.
You should have:
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Blood pressure checks at least annually (more often if elevated)
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Cholesterol screening as recommended based on age and risk factors
Routine lab work can provide valuable insight into your cardiovascular health and overall wellness.
Many adults have prediabetes without knowing it. A simple blood test can determine if your blood sugar levels are in a healthy range.
Talk with your provider about screening if you:
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Are over age 35
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Have a family history of diabetes
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Are overweight
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Have high blood pressure
Early detection allows for lifestyle changes that can prevent or delay diabetes.
Spring is a great time to make sure you’re up to date on important cancer screenings, including:
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Mammograms (for women based on age and provider recommendations)
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Colon cancer screening (starting at age 45 for most adults)
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Cervical cancer screening (Pap test/HPV testing)
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Skin checks if you have new or changing moles
Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
Vaccinations aren’t just for children. Adults should stay current on:
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Tetanus boosters
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Flu shots (seasonal)
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Pneumonia vaccines (for certain age groups)
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Shingles vaccine (recommended for adults 50+)
Your provider can review your immunization history and recommend updates.
For women, spring is a good time to review:
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Bone density testing (especially over age 65 or at higher risk)
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Breast exams
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Routine gynecological visits
Preventive care supports long-term health and independence.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
If you’ve been experiencing:
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Ongoing stress
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Anxiety
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Sleep difficulties
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Changes in mood
A conversation with your provider can help determine next steps and connect you to supportive services if needed.
Spring calendars tend to fill up quickly with summer activities, travel, and family events. Scheduling preventive appointments now helps ensure:
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Earlier appointment availability
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Peace of mind going into summer
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Time to address any concerns before they become urgent
Preventive care isn’t about reacting — it’s about staying proactive.
If you don’t currently have a primary care provider, establishing care is one of the most important steps you can take for your health this year. Your provider serves as your partner — helping coordinate lab work, imaging, specialty referrals, and long-term wellness planning.
This spring, make your health a priority. A simple phone call to schedule your annual visit or screening can make a lasting difference.
