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Maximize Your Health: Why Your Annual Wellness Visit Matters in 2026
January 22, 2026
Your health evolves from year to year — and your care should, too. That’s why an annual wellness visit is one of the most valuable appointments you can make. It’s your dedicated time to check in with your primary care provider, talk through health changes, review preventive screenings and get ahead of potential issues before they affect your life.
At St. Elizabeth, we view this visit as more than a checkup — it’s a partnership. And now, with updated screening guidelines and more flexible preventive options, it’s the perfect moment to make your wellness a priority.
Why Your Wellness Visit Matters
Even if you feel well, an annual check-in helps your provider get the full picture of your health. These visits give you space to talk about concerns, understand your risks and build a plan tailored to your goals for the year ahead. Dr. Ken Bazydlo, a Family Medicine Physician at the St. Elizabeth Center for Family Medicine, encourages patients to come prepared: “Bring a written list of your medications, any health changes and goals. This helps us make the most of our time together and keeps your care focused on what matters most.” During your appointment, your provider may:- Review your vitals and order labs.
- Discuss recommended immunizations.
- Review upcoming preventive screenings and how they apply to your care.
- Review medications, supplements and allergies.
- Screen for depression, anxiety or cognitive changes.
- Align your care if you’ve seen specialists or visited the urgent care or the ER.
- Talk through lifestyle goals like sleep, stress, nutrition and fitness.
What’s New in Preventive Care for 2026
Preventive care guidelines evolve, and 2026 includes some significant updates that may benefit you. Breast Cancer Screening National recommendations now further support starting mammograms at age 40 for all average risk women, with screenings continuing on a regular schedule through age 74. Colorectal Cancer Screening Since in 2021, guidelines have recommended colon cancer screening starting at age 45 for average risk adults. This is a change from age 50 previously. Options include at home stool tests or colonoscopy — your provider can help determine the best choice for you based on risk and preference. Blood Pressure, Cholesterol and Diabetes Your visit is the right time to:- Check blood pressure and confirm any elevated readings. Review readings if you check them at home.
- Review cholesterol testing needs (typically ages 40–75, or earlier for those at higher risk).
- Screen for diabetes, especially for adults ages 35–70 who are overweight or obese.
- Tdap and Td boosters.
- Annual flu vaccine.
- Updated COVID-19 vaccines.
- Shingles (RZV) vaccine starting at age 50.
- Pneumococcal vaccines starting at age 50 or based on risk.
- RSV vaccination for adults 60+ depending on risk level.
Preparing for Your Appointment
A little preparation goes a long way. Before your visit:- Make a list of questions and health goals.
- Gather medication bottles or an up–to–date medication list.
- Note any specialist visits, urgent care visits or new diagnoses.
- Update your family medical history, especially cancer, heart disease or diabetes.
- Consider lifestyle goals, like sleep, stress, diet, movement or mental health.
The Power of a Strong Patient Provider Relationship
One of the greatest advantages of an annual wellness visit is the relationship you build over time with your provider. When your provider knows you well, they are better equipped to guide your care and help you navigate screenings, referrals, prescriptions and preventative care.Ready to Schedule? We’re Here for You.
From Newport Ovation Primary Care to the new Union Richwood Primary Care, St. Elizabeth Physicians is accepting new patients at many conveniently located offices. Whether you’re due for your wellness visit or looking to establish care, our team is here to support your health today and into the future. You can schedule online or call your primary care office to book an appointment. Reviewed by Ken Bazydlo, MD, on 1/16/2026.Related Posts
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