Most people schedule their annual physical with the best intentions, then walk in without having thought much about it ahead of time. That is completely understandable — but a little preparation can turn a routine appointment into something genuinely useful. At Express Internal Medicine in Plano, TX, Dr. Iram Qureshi, DO, encourages patients to come to their physicals ready, because the more you bring to the visit, the more you can take away from it.
Before Your Appointment: What to Do in Advance
1. Confirm Your Fasting Requirements Many annual physicals include blood work — particularly a lipid panel and blood glucose test — that requires fasting for 9 to 12 hours beforehand. Confirm with your doctor’s office when you schedule. Water, black coffee (without sugar or cream), and plain medications are usually fine during the fasting window.
2. Compile Your Medication List Write down every medication you take — prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements. Include the name, dose, and how often you take each. If you are unsure of the details, bring the bottles.
3. Gather Your Medical Records If you have seen other specialists or had procedures done at a different facility, bring relevant records or request that they be sent ahead of time. Recent lab work, imaging results, or specialist notes all give your doctor a fuller picture.
4. Note Any Symptoms or Concerns It is easy to forget the things you have been meaning to bring up once you are in the exam room. Write them down beforehand, even if they seem minor.
5. Know Your Family History If you have not shared your family medical history with your doctor, try to gather details about first-degree relatives (parents, siblings, children) — particularly any history of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or mental health conditions.
What to Bring to Your Physical Exam
- Photo ID and insurance card
- List of current medications and supplements
- Any relevant medical records or recent lab results
- A list of questions and concerns
- Vaccination records if available
- Your glasses or contacts if applicable, especially for vision screening
What to Expect During the Exam
A typical annual physical with Dr. Iram Qureshi, DO, may include:
- Review of your medical history and any updates since your last visit
- Measurement of vital signs — blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, respiratory rate
- Height, weight, and BMI calculation
- Head-to-toe physical examination — eyes, ears, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, and lymph nodes
- Age- and sex-appropriate screenings — such as cholesterol, blood sugar, thyroid, and cancer screenings
- Review of vaccinations and any needed boosters
- Discussion of lifestyle — diet, exercise, sleep, stress, and alcohol or tobacco use
Questions to Ask at Your Annual Physical
This is your time. Do not leave without asking the things that matter to you. A few good starting points:
- Are my current screenings and vaccines up to date?
- Is there anything in my lab results I should watch?
- Are there any lifestyle changes you would prioritize for someone with my health history?
- Should I see any specialists?
- How can I best manage [a specific condition you have]?
After the Visit
Review any printed summaries or notes from your visit. If lab results come back after your appointment, make sure you understand what they mean — do not hesitate to call the office if something is unclear. Set a reminder for your next annual exam before the year is out.
Taking an active role in your health is one of the most impactful things you can do. Express Internal Medicine is here to support that at every visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an annual physical exam usually take?
A thorough annual physical typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many concerns are addressed and whether lab work is done in-office.
Should I stop any medications before my physical?
Do not stop any medications without speaking to your doctor first. In most cases, you should continue taking your regular medications.
Can I discuss mental health concerns at a physical exam?
Absolutely. Mental health is part of overall health. Your doctor can screen for depression, anxiety, and stress and discuss referrals if appropriate.
What is included in blood work at a physical?
This varies by age and health history, but commonly includes a complete blood count, lipid panel, blood glucose or HbA1c, kidney and liver function, and thyroid levels.
How far in advance should I schedule my annual physical?
Scheduling 1 to 2 months in advance is a good practice, especially if your doctor has a busy schedule. End-of-year rushes are common, so booking earlier avoids delays.
Medical Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen. If you have questions about your health, please speak with Dr. Iram Qureshi, DO, or another licensed medical professional.
Dr. Iram Qureshi is a dedicated board-certified Internal Medicine physician with a strong passion for preventative care and weight-loss management. With over five years of experience as a hospitalist, Dr. Qureshi has honed her expertise in treating acute medical conditions and focusing on preventing hospitalizations. She is committed to providing compassionate care and evidence-based guidance to help patients lead healthier lifestyles.
As the co-founder of Express Internal Medicine, Dr. Qureshi works alongside her husband, Dr. Adeel Khan, to create a welcoming and supportive environment for patients. She specializes in weight-loss management, offering personalized treatment plans aimed at achieving sustainable health outcomes. Dr. Qureshi holds degrees from Ohio State University and The University of Pikeville-Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, with internal medicine training from Midwestern University OPTI in Sierra Vista, Arizona.
Fluent in English and Urdu/Hindi, Dr. Qureshi is passionate about educating her patients and empowering them to take charge of their health. Outside of her medical practice, she enjoys cooking, traveling, photography, and movies.
