The Importance of an Annual Physical

It’s easy to put off your annual physical when you have a packed schedule and a long to-do list. Yet, making time to schedule and attend your annual physical is one of the most beneficial steps you can take to start the new year off on a focused path.

At Horizons Wellness Family Health NP PLLC in Middletown, New York, yearly checkups are a foundation for keeping you healthy, informed, and in control of your well-being.

Why annual physicals matter more than you think

Many people only visit a provider when symptoms crop up or when something else feels off. But issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can develop without apparent symptoms initially. A yearly physical helps catch these issues before they progress and become hard to manage.

Research supports the benefit of yearly checkups. A study published in JAMA found that general health exams detect chronic disease and treatment, improve risk factor control, and boost patient-reported outcomes.

Your visit gives our team a comprehensive window into your health: your vital signs, lab results, lifestyle habits, and changes since your last exam. This bigger picture helps us spot patterns you might miss day to day, such as rising blood sugar, elevated cholesterol, or blood pressure that’s creeping up, so we can help you stay well.

A personalized health snapshot

An annual physical isn’t a one-size-fits-all appointment. Board-certified nurse practitioner, Albalira Gibson-Borrelli, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, and our dedicated team tailor every exam to your needs.

For some patients, that means focusing on chronic disease management, such as diabetes or high cholesterol. For others, it’s a discussion about weight loss goals, menopause symptoms, medication adjustments, or changes in mental health.

Because the practice sees patients aged 17 and older. Many adults rely on Horizons Wellness Family Health as their medical home through every life stage, including college years, pregnancy planning, midlife transitions, and beyond.

Our team’s warm, approachable environment makes it easy to talk openly about your concerns.

Prevention leads to long-term wellness

When caught early, many conditions are easier and less costly to treat. That’s why yearly checkups often include screening tests like:

Immunization updates
Blood work to monitor cholesterol, thyroid function, and blood sugar
Mental health evaluations, especially for patients at risk of depression
Medication reviews to ensure safe, effective dosing
Weight, blood pressure, and heart-health assessments

Horizons Wellness Family Health also offers services that go beyond standard measurements. As a certified Spravato® center and provider of ketamine infusions, the practice identifies mental health concerns early and provides innovative treatment options for depression when needed.

This integrative approach means your physical and emotional health get equal priority.

Building a relationship with your provider

The value of an annual physical extends beyond test results. When you see the same trusted providers each year, you build a strong relationship rooted in understanding and continuity. Over time, your health team learns your medical history, preferences, stressors, and goals, allowing for more precise, personalized care.

For patients in Orange County’s diverse community, our Spanish-speaking staff ensures clear communication and cultural sensitivity, strengthening the patient-provider partnership.

Kick off the new year by prioritizing your health

Your annual physical is an investment in your future health. The Horizons Wellness Family Health team can support you in managing chronic conditions, improving your energy, or simply committing to staying healthy.

Contact us at our Middletown office or request an appointment online today. Your health is worth prioritizing, and your annual physical is the perfect place to start.