- An annual wellness exam at Hyatt Health covers your health history, vital signs, a physical exam and, when needed, labs and preventive screenings.
- The USPSTF recommends blood pressure screening for adults 18 and older and colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45.
- Bring a list of your medicines, supplements and questions.
A proactive approach to your health can help you stay ahead of serious medical issues. Establishing a relationship with a trusted provider for primary care in Dumas, TX or Dalhart gives you a dedicated partner in your wellness journey. By prioritizing preventive health and staying up to date with an annual wellness exam, you help your provider catch potential problems early.
At Hyatt Health, your exam is with a nurse practitioner or another licensed medical professional. Here is what to expect.
What Happens at a Wellness Exam
A wellness exam is a preventive visit, so it focuses on your overall health rather than a single illness. Your visit usually includes:
- A review of your medical history, family history and medicines.
- Vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate and weight.
- A physical exam.
- Lab work when needed, such as standard blood work.
- A conversation about nutrition, physical activity, sleep, tobacco and alcohol use.
- A check on which preventive screenings you are due for.
Your provider may also ask about your mood and stress, and it is a good time to ask whether you are due for any vaccines. If something needs a closer look, your provider will explain the next steps.
Preventive Screenings by Age
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) publishes evidence based screening recommendations for people without symptoms. Here are several common ones for adults. Your provider may suggest a different schedule based on your family history and risk factors.
| Who | Recommended screening |
|---|---|
| Adults 18 and older | Blood pressure |
| Adults | Depression, plus anxiety for adults 64 and younger |
| Adults 18 to 79 | Hepatitis C |
| Women 21 to 65 | Cervical cancer, every 3 or 5 years depending on the test |
| Adults 35 to 70 with overweight or obesity | Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes |
| Women 40 to 74 | Mammogram every 2 years |
| Adults 45 to 75 | Colorectal cancer |
| Adults 50 to 80 with a 20 pack year smoking history who smoke now or quit within the past 15 years | Yearly low dose CT scan for lung cancer |
| Women 65 and older | Osteoporosis |
Timing can differ by person. For blood pressure, the USPSTF suggests yearly checks for adults 40 and older or at increased risk, and every 3 to 5 years for lower risk adults 18 to 39 with a prior normal reading. Some tests, such as mammograms and colonoscopies, are done at specialized facilities. Your provider can tell you which screenings you are due for.
A wellness exam is for prevention. If you are sick or have new symptoms, book a sick visit instead; same day appointments are available. Our guide to urgent care vs. primary care can help you decide where to go.
Managing Chronic Conditions
Long term conditions are common. According to the CDC, three in four American adults have at least one chronic condition, and diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes are leading causes of death and disability in the United States. Whether you need an annual physical, lab testing or chronic disease management, consistent care helps catch problems early.
Hyatt Health providers help patients manage conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and thyroid conditions. Your annual exam is a chance to review how your treatment plan is working, and your provider may recommend follow up visits and lab work to track numbers like blood sugar or blood pressure.
Daily habits matter too. The CDC notes that many preventable chronic diseases are caused by a short list of risk behaviors: smoking, poor nutrition, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol use. Your provider can help you set realistic goals. You can also view our full range of primary care services.
What to Bring to Your Visit
The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends preparing for your visit ahead of time. Plan to bring:
- A list of every medicine you take, including over the counter medicines, vitamins and supplements, with the strength and how often you take each one.
- Your questions and concerns, with the most important first.
- Recent test results or medical records, especially if you are a new patient.
- Any health logs you keep, such as home blood pressure readings.
- Your insurance card, if you have one. Insured and self pay patients are both welcome.
Schedule Your Exam in Dumas or Dalhart
Hyatt Health offers primary care in Dumas at 616 E 1st St, Dumas, TX 79029, (806) 421-0507, and primary care in Dalhart at 310 Rock Island Ave, Dalhart, TX 79022, (806) 244-0136. Both clinics are open Monday to Thursday 8 am to 5 pm and Friday 9 am to 3 pm. Walk ins are welcome, though booking ahead reduces your wait. You can book your wellness exam online or call either clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during routine medical exams?
We review your medical history, check vital signs, perform a physical exam, and may order standard blood work.
Can a primary care provider help with chronic conditions?
Yes, we actively manage ongoing health issues like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and thyroid conditions.
How often should I have an annual wellness exam?
Many adults schedule a wellness exam once a year. Your provider may recommend a different schedule based on your age, health and risk factors.
Do I need an appointment for a wellness exam?
Walk ins are welcome at both clinics, but appointments are recommended to reduce your wait. You can book online or call the Dumas or Dalhart clinic.
Schedule your annual wellness exam
See a nurse practitioner in Dumas or Dalhart. Walk ins welcome, se habla español.
Sources
This article is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider.
