Health screenings are a series of tests that doctors and nurses use to evaluate your health. Health screenings can take place at health fairs, employer offices, on-site clinics or community wellness activities, in addition to a doctor's office. Although health screenings vary based on the setting and how detailed a screening you undergo, all follow the same basic procedure.
Complete Questionnaire
Ainsbury Health Screening notes that the first step is to complete a questionnaire about your diet, exercise, lifestyle and family history of disease. Sometimes called a health risk assessment, healthcare professionals use the results to help determine what screening tests you may need or the areas the doctor should focus on.
Base Measurements
A health professional will measure your weight, height and blood pressure. She may use the measurements from your weight and height to calculate your body mass index, or BMI, and rank the results to see whether your measurements are within healthy values.
Screen for Diseases
The NIH Medical Encyclopedia notes that health professionals will select specific screening tests based on the results of your health risk assessment--which will show where you might be at risk for certain diseases--as well as your base measurements, age and gender.
Discuss Potential Problems
Health screenings are a good opportunity to discuss complaints you may have that could affect your overall health. Since the goal of health screenings is to identify potential problems before they develop, note problems like shortness of breath, dizziness, tired feelings, sleep disturbances or problems with appetite.
Schedule Follow-Up
The doctor will identify any tests that require another visit or preparation, like fasting glucose tests or a complete cholesterol panel, and will schedule another appointment. The Mayo Clinic notes that unless the doctor has serious concerns, most health screening follow-up should occur during your regular annual checkup.
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