If you have been putting off your annual physical or other screenings, early fall is a good time to schedule them. September gives you a chance to see your doctor before flu season gets busy and before the end-of-year rush. It is also a good time to review any health benefits you may still be able to use before the year ends.
1. You Can Prepare for the Flu Season
Fall is a good time to talk with your doctor about vaccines. Your doctor can tell you when to get your flu shot and whether you should consider other recommended vaccines, such as those for RSV, COVID-19, or pneumonia.
Getting these questions answered during your checkup can make it easier to prepare for the months ahead. Your age, health history, and medications can all affect which vaccines are right for you. The CDC's vaccine schedule for adults is another useful resource. You can review it before your appointment and ask your doctor about anything that is unclear.
2. You May Have an Easier Time Getting an Appointment
Many people wait until late fall or winter to take care of routine medical visits. That can make it harder to find an appointment that fits your schedule. Scheduling your physical in September or early October gives you more time to sort out routine health needs before the end of the year. If you need to see a specialist, it may also be easier to start that process sooner.
3. There is Time to Follow Up
Your doctor may recommend blood work, a screening, another appointment, or a visit with a specialist. Getting started in early fall gives you more time to take those next steps. You may be able to complete follow-up care before the holidays and avoid carrying it into the new year.
4. Year-End Benefits May Still Be on the Table
Many Medicare Advantage plans and supplemental insurance policies reset in January. Whatever you have not used, you may lose. That includes:
- Annual physical if you have not booked one
- Dental, vision, and hearing benefits that reset annually
- Preventive screenings covered at no cost
- Flexible spending or supplemental allowances
Taking care of eligible appointments before December gives you more time to use benefits you may otherwise overlook.
5. You Have Time to Talk with Your Doctor
The best doctor visits happen when both sides can focus. September appointments tend to feel less rushed than mid-flu-season ones. You have time to actually ask questions. A routine checkup is more than a chance to check your blood pressure or renew a prescription. It is also a good opportunity to bring up changes you have noticed.
Think about anything different lately. Maybe you have been having more trouble sleeping, feeling unsteady, losing your appetite, or dealing with a new ache. Write down your questions before the appointment so you do not forget them. Consider bringing a family member or a caregiver if you can. A second set of ears can help catch details you might miss.
Senior Helpers Can Assist with Transportation and Appointments
Getting to a medical appointment is not always easy, especially when you would rather not drive or need someone to stay with you throughout the visit. Senior Helpers Redlands provides in-home support for seniors, including transportation and appointments, and more. Contact us to learn more about in-home care options in Redlands, Loma Linda, Highland, San Bernardino, and Mentone.