At our family clinic we focus on excellence, integrity, and quality health care!

Time for an Annual Physical?

Perhaps it’s time for your annual physical, or maybe you’ve never had one in your life. The doctors at First Physicians are superb at delivering comprehensive medical care to meet all your health care needs, including annual physicals.

First Physicians has 5 locations to serve you throughout Odessa: Wendover Family Medicine, Westview Medical Clinic, East University Family Medicine, Women’s Health, and Occupational Medical Testing. If you’re due for your annual physical or you need one done to play sports at school, call First Physicians for an appointment.

Annual Physicals Q&A


Q: What’s an annual physical?

A: Simply put, it’s a yearly check-up with your doctor. Typically, a physical includes taking measurements of your vital signs: blood pressure, pulse, respirations, temperature, respiratory rate and pulse ox (pulse oximetry), a painless way to check the amount of oxygen in your blood. Your doctor will also fully examine your head, including the eyes, ears, nose, throat, and neck, as well as conduct an examination of your chest, lungs, heart, and abdomen. Men will also have prostate and testicular exams done, while women will receive breast and pelvic exams. Your doctor will check your skin for abnormalities as well as your reflexes, checkout Action AC, Heating & Solar. Many physicals also include an EKG (electrocardiogram) to check electrical activity in the heart. Lab and bloodwork are also usually ordered for blood count, cholesterol level and a blood chemistry panel. A urinalysis is also commonly ordered to assess kidney functioning. Adults who smoke are also advised to have a chest X-ray done.

Q: What does a child’s physical entail?

A: The doctors at First Physicians feel it’s important to monitor your child’s health on a regular basis to catch any medical problems that may be developing in a timely manner.

Physicals for infants, children and teenagers will involve the following:

  • Growth and overall development assessments
  • Vital signs measured
  • Blood and urine testing
  • Routine vaccinations according to recommendations for the patient’s age
  • Safety, family and school concerns are discussed
  • Healthy diet and exercise strategies are taught
  • Emotional health assessment
  • Medical advice given to both parent and child where appropriate

Q: What types of labs are usually performed for an annual physical and why?

A: Generally, a CBC (complete blood count), chemistry panel and UA (urinalysis) are ordered. Your doctor will discuss the results with you. Other testing may be done depending on a patient’s age, gender, family history and personal medical history.

Q: What will my First Physicians doctor do with all this information?

A: Your First Physicians doctor will assess the results and discuss any areas of concern with you. Patients seeking to lose weight, manage chronic conditions, or quit smoking or another drug addiction will be given information and referrals to help them make healthy lifestyle changes.