One of the most effective preventive health measures is an annual exam. These exams are essential because they provide a consistent check-up on your health, helping to spot potential issues early. Andrew Brown, PA-C, emphasizes the comprehensive nature of these exams: “Preventive care is crucial because it checks in both physically and emotionally, ensuring screenings have been completed and updating patients on their health status. We often catch issues with just labs or through specific screenings for colon, prostate, breast, and cervical cancers that a patient wouldn’t know about. In Telluride, where physical activity levels are generally high, people tend to assume they’re in good health, but we don’t know if people need mental health support unless we check in with them.” 

Preventive healthcare is about avoiding health problems before they begin. Taking a proactive stance on your health involves catching small concerns early to prevent them from developing into more significant problems for better wellbeing and smaller medical bills. 

Andrew Brown, PA-C, outlines what patients should expect during a preventive visit: “For the physical part, people should expect a discussion about labs and any necessary screening tests. This includes a hands-on physical exam and a check-in regarding social and behavioral health. For the psychosocial aspects, our primary care providers delve into what’s going on in patients’ lives, which isn’t typically covered during a sick visit. Establishing care with a consistent provider and building that relationship is incredibly important, even if it’s just once a year.” Andrew elaborates that the tests for anxiety and depression, the PHQ-9, GAD-7 are, “a really good indicator of how you’re doing. We understand they are lengthy, but they result in outcomes that support wellness of our patients. Not everyone might be comfortable speaking up if they’re having a tough time, but it may be easier for them to check a box.” 

Goals of an Annual Exam 

Assess your individual risk factors for appropriate screenings and counseling. 

Provide time to discuss preventive services without being distracted by acute or chronic health issues. 

Strengthen your relationship with your provider and ensure you feel comfortable discussing any health concerns. 

Help establish long-term health goals and set expectations for the year ahead. 

Screenings and Services Offered 

  • Age-appropriate screenings for: 
  • Heart Health 
  • Diabetes  
  • Cancer  
  • Blood cell count  
  • Kidney health  
  • Liver health 
  • Screening for social determinants of health, such as housing insecurity or intimate partner violence, with referrals provided if necessary. 
  • Alcohol and substance use screening 
  • Mental health screenings for depression and anxiety. 

At TMC, our commitment is to provide you with the highest quality of care. Annual exams are a fundamental part, allowing us to support your health goals and address changes in your health proactively. 

This spring, we are pleased to offer special pricing for annual exams, ensuring that our services are accessible to everyone in our community, including those who are underinsured or uninsured. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to prioritize your health. 

For more information or to schedule your exam, please contact our office at (970) 728-3848.