The Importance of Regular Check-Ups and Screenings

When it comes to optimal health, prevention is key.

 Many serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, develop slowly over time and may not show symptoms in their early stages. That’s why routine check-ups and screenings are so important. Regular visits with your healthcare provider allow for early detection, making treatment more effective and improving long-term health outcomes.

 “Preventive care is one of the most powerful tools we have to keep people healthy,” says Dr. Art Check, Story Medical Clinic—Nevada. “By keeping up with routine check-ups and screenings, we can catch potential health issues early—often before they become serious.”

What Is Preventive Care?

 Preventive care includes a range of health services designed to detect, prevent, and monitor medical conditions before they progress. These services typically include:

  •  Annual Physicals: Regular check-ups help track vital health markers like blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight.
  •  Cancer Screenings: Mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin checks detect cancer in its early stages when it’s most treatable.
  •  Vaccinations: Staying up to date on vaccines protects against preventable diseases like flu, pneumonia, and shingles.
  •  Routine Blood Work: Tests for diabetes, high cholesterol, and other conditions help catch problems before symptoms appear.
  •  Mental Health Screenings: Checking in on emotional well-being is just as important as physical health.

 “Many people skip their annual exams because they feel fine, but that’s exactly the time to go,” says Dr. Check. “These visits aren’t just about treating illness—they’re about staying ahead of health concerns before they become a bigger problem.”

Who Should Get Regular Screenings?

 Preventive care is essential at every stage of life:

  •  Children & Teens: Well-child visits track growth, development, and vaccinations.
  •  Adults: Screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes help detect silent health risks.
  •  Seniors: Bone density tests, cancer screenings, and routine check-ups help manage age-related conditions.

 Dr. Check emphasizes that personalized care is key: “Your provider will help determine which screenings you need based on age, family history, and lifestyle. The best approach to healthcare is proactive, not reactive.”

Take Charge of Your Health Today

 Regular preventive care visits can save lives by identifying potential health risks early. Schedule your next check-up today to ensure you're on the right path to long-term health and well-being.

 At Story Medical, our providers are here to help you take control of your health through personalized, preventive care. Call us today to schedule your next visit!

  •  Nevada Clinic: (515) 382-5413
  •  Maxwell Clinic: (515) 387-8815
  •  Ames Natural Health Clinic: (515) 382-5413