Maximize Your Health: Why Your Annual Wellness Visit Matters in 2026

With insights from Dr. Ken Bazydlo, Family Medicine Physician – St. Elizabeth Center for Family Medicine.  

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 doctor 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 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 doctor 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. 

It’s also a moment to revisit family history — especially if new diagnoses have surfaced that could change your screening plan. 

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 

Starting 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 doctor 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. 

Updated Adult Immunizations 

Your doctor will help you stay current with vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which may include: 

• Tdap and Td boosters. 

• Annual flu vaccine. 

• Updated COVID19 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. 

Immunization guidance shifts frequently, so your annual visit is the ideal time to confirm what’s right for you this year. 

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 — sleep, stress, diet, movement or mental health. 

These details help your doctor give you the most personalized care possible. 

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 doctor. When your doctor 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 several 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.