3 Reasons to Schedule Your Annual Physical Before the New Year

The year is winding down. And while most people are focused on the holidays and other seasonal celebrations, it’s also the perfect time to schedule your annual physical exam.

This yearly visit with your primary care physician gives you a chance to check in on your physical and mental health and discuss any questions or concerns with your medical team. It also ensures that you stay up to date on vaccines and other important preventive health measures so you can feel your best and age comfortably. 

At The Center for Primary Care and Sports Medicine, board-certified physician Lawrence Kacmar, MD, and our team offer physical exams to people of all ages. Here, we highlight the three top reasons you should schedule your physical now, instead of waiting until after the new year.

1. Maximize your health benefits

Most people’s health insurance benefits reset at the start of a new year. If you haven’t had a physical in 2025, scheduling one now can help you avoid unexpected costs and take full advantage of your coverage.

A physical exam can also uncover underlying medical issues, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions that may require treatment. Detecting these early supports your long-term health, but can also save you money, especially if your insurance plan covers co-pays or preventive services. 

Scheduling your visit before the new year ensures that you get the most out of your benefits and start 2026 with your health on track.

2. Start the new year on the right foot

Many people use the new year to set resolutions, 79% of which are health-focused. Whether your goal is to lose weight, exercise more, improve your nutrition, or better manage a chronic condition, achieving these goals takes time, focus, and support. Scheduling a physical exam before you get started helps lay the foundation for success and can make your goals easier to achieve.

For example, if you want to slim down to reduce your risk of heart disease and diabetes, Dr. Kacmar can work with you to develop a personalized plan that may include nutritional counseling, prescription medication, or exercise guidance. This kind of support helps you make sustainable lifestyle changes and see lasting results.

3. Avoid seasonal illness

Cold, flu, and COVID-19 are more common this time of year. Scheduling a physical now helps you get ahead of the holiday gatherings, avoid the seasonal rush, and receive preventive medicine without delays. You can get your annual flu shot and COVID booster if you haven’t already. 

Taking these steps now helps protect your health during the most active part of flu season, which peaks between December and February, and lets you start the new year with all of your health priorities already addressed.

Schedule your physical exam today!

If it’s been more than a year since your last physical exam, now is the perfect time to take action and schedule your appointment. To get started, walk in or call The Center for Primary Care and Sports Medicine in Aurora, Illinois.