Physical Examinations

Doctor high fiving young patientFamily Health Medical Services is proud to offer a variety of physical examination options for our patients, including:

  • Employment Physicals
  • School Physicals
  • Sports Physicals
  • Insurance Physicals
  • Annual Routine Physicals

Physicals are an opportunity to assess your current health status and help prevent serious potential health issues down the road. During your visit, we encourage you to discuss important health-related matters with your doctor, share concerns and ask questions.

The Benefit of Preventative Physicals

As trusted physicians, we recommend all adults and children complete preventative care physical exams at least once a year. Why are physical exams important? When conducted regularly, physical examinations can be the first step in detecting, diagnosing, and treating conditions that otherwise may go unnoticed. For adults, routine annual exams are an easy step towards disease prevention and long-term healthy living. When you make it a priority to routinely evaluate your risk factors, assess your lifestyle habits, and screen for various medical conditions, you significantly reduce the risk of chronic, life threatening diseases.

For adolescents, a proper physical exam is a critical part of identifying and treating any possible issues your growing child may be experiencing.

Are you unsure how often your child should have a physical exam? The New York State Department of Education requires an annual physical examination conducted by a New York State Physician for new entrants, and students in Grades K, 2, 4, 7 and 10. These exams can help determine whether a child is experiencing any physical development issues that may be inhibiting their vision, muscle and bone development, weight control, respiratory health, and more.

Physicals are also often required for students who want to participate in school sports. Sometimes referred to as preparticipation physical examination (PPE). These assessments are performed before the competitive season and help determine whether it's safe for your child to participate in specific sports, such as football, soccer, track, or hockey.

Even when not required, we still recommend children who plan to participate in organized sports be examined to help minimize the risk of injury.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Are you unsure what a physical exam includes? Examinations vary depending on the patient’s age, but typically our physicians will:

  • Record vital signs such as height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, and BMI
  • Check the heart, lungs, lymph nodes, abdomen, skin, eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  • Evaluate vision, joints, muscles, and spine
  • Discuss medical history, lifestyle, and goals

In addition to conducting a routine exam, our physicians will suggest additional tests and screenings when they feel it is necessary. They will also complete any necessary paperwork, so don’t forget to bring in all forms you are required to have completed by a physician.

How to Prepare for a Physical

Thankfully, preparing for you or your child for an annual physical exam is easy. Before the appointment, make a list of any medications you or your child are currently taking. Then, write down any possible symptoms or problems you or your child may be experiencing.

If you have had any recent lab test done such as blood work or allergy tests, you will want to make note of those as well.

Lastly, if your physical is for school, insurance, work, or a third party, make sure you are aware of any paperwork or forms you may need the physician to complete.

Additional Services

In addition to our routine office services, we also provide a wide range of additional services to individuals and families in the Western New York region. These services include:

Explore a specific service in depth, contact us for more information, or log into the Patient Portal to schedule an appointment.

FHMS offers patients a range of virtual medical care services through our telemedicine program. Now you can get the care you need — wherever you may be.

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Find a Location Near You

We offer services at facilities in Mayville, Jamestown, and Westfield to better serve you wherever you are! Call your local office to schedule an appointment today.