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Well Woman Exam Q & A
How often are well-woman visits recommended?
Well-woman visits should be scheduled once a year. This ensures that screening for certain conditions occurs on a routine basis and improves the chances of early diagnosis and treatment for serious diseases.
What can I expect during my well-woman visit?
During your well-woman visit, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation, including:
- A review of your medical history and family medical history, including current medications and treatments
- A complete physical examination
- A pelvic exam
- Routine blood testing to screen for high cholesterol, high blood sugar, thyroid abnormalities, and more
- A mammogram, pap smear, and bone density test, depending on your age and medical history
The doctor uses the information gathered throughout this comprehensive examination to determine your risk factors and recommend a plan for reducing risk and treating conditions uncovered during the appointment.
Does insurance cover well-woman visits?
Yes. As a matter of fact, many patients find that their preventive well-woman exams are covered at a higher level than their routine doctor’s appointments.
What are the risk associated with skipping a well-woman visit?
Your well-woman visit is the only time you have with the doctor to focus entirely on prevention and early detection. Many disease that affect women, like heart disease and cervical cancer, present without any symptoms at all. Without a well-woman visit, these life-limiting diseases are rarely recognized before the damage is irreversible. Failing to invest in well-woman visits can delay diagnosis and treatment of life-threatening illness.
What kind of doctor provides healthcare for women?
Many doctors treat women, but primary care and family medicine physicians focus on the health and wellness of you as a whole person, which includes prevention and risk management. They’re also qualified to diagnose and treat any condition you may present with. These doctors commonly perform well-woman visits.
When will I receive my test results?
Some tests can be processed in a matter of minutes while others can take several days. The doctor and his team will tell you what you can expect before you leave, as well as what to do if you don’t hear back within a timely manner.
