What Labs Are Included in an Annual Physical?
An annual physical exam is an important part of preventive healthcare. During this visit, your physician reviews your medical history, performs a physical examination, and may recommend certain laboratory tests to evaluate your overall health. However, many patients are surprised to learn that not every lab test is appropriate for every person. Laboratory testing is typically tailored based on age, gender, medical history, symptoms, and risk factors.
At Broadway Family Clinic, we focus on evidence-based and age-appropriate screening tests to ensure patients receive the most useful and medically necessary evaluations.
Why Labs Are Not the Same for Everyone
Preventive screening guidelines from organizations such as the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend tests based on their likelihood of detecting disease early and improving health outcomes. Ordering unnecessary tests can sometimes lead to false positives, additional testing, unnecessary anxiety, and increased healthcare costs.
For this reason, your physician selects laboratory tests that are appropriate for your age group and health profile.
Common Labs Often Included in an Adult Annual Physical
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A CBC evaluates different types of blood cells and may help detect:
Anemia, Infection, Blood disorders
2. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
This panel evaluates several important body functions, including:
Kidney function, Liver function, Electrolytes, Blood sugar levels
3. Lipid Panel (Cholesterol Test)
A lipid panel measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which helps assess the risk of heart disease and stroke. This test is commonly recommended for adults starting in early adulthood and monitored periodically depending on risk factors.
4. Blood Glucose or Hemoglobin A1C
These tests screen for diabetes or prediabetes. Screening may begin earlier in individuals who have risk factors such as obesity, family history of diabetes, or high blood pressure.
Age-Specific Screening Tests
Certain tests are recommended only after a certain age or when specific risk factors are present.
Examples include:
For adults over 45–50
Colon cancer screening
Diabetes screening
For men over 50 (sometimes earlier, depending on risk)
PSA screening for prostate health
For women
Pap smear for cervical cancer screening
Mammograms for breast cancer screening (usually beginning around age 40)
Your physician will discuss whether these tests are appropriate for you.
When Additional Tests May Be Ordered
Sometimes additional labs may be recommended based on symptoms, medical history, or medications. These may include:
Thyroid testing, Vitamin levels, Hormone testing, Infectious disease screening, Specialized metabolic tests
These tests are usually ordered when medically indicated, rather than as part of routine screening.
Insurance Coverage and Lab Testing
Most insurance plans cover preventive screening tests that are recommended for your age and risk category. However, tests that are not considered standard screening may not always be covered by insurance.
For this reason, your physician may discuss whether certain tests are medically necessary or optional.
The Importance of Preventive Care
Routine physical exams and appropriate lab testing allow physicians to identify health problems early—often before symptoms develop. Early detection of conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension can significantly improve long-term health outcomes.
Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to maintain long-term health and wellness.
Schedule Your Annual Physical
If you are due for a yearly exam, the team at Broadway Family Clinic is here to help. Our goal is to provide comprehensive, personalized, and age-appropriate preventive care for every patient.
To schedule your annual physical, contact our office or request an appointment online.
