A wellness exam, also known as a physical, is a health check-up with the primary purpose of assessing your overall health and risk factors for diseases that can be prevented.

Well-child exams are scheduled more frequently in the first 2 years of life and annually thereafter. These exams provide an opportunity to complete all the recommended immunizations, discuss nutrition and safety, track the growth and development of your child and discuss your child’s milestones, social behaviors and provide an opportunity to assess behavior, development, sleep and eating habits of your child.

The Muckleshoot tribal council has approved a healthcare incentive payment for enrolled Muckleshoot tribal members as outlined below:

• $50 for each recommended well child exam up to age 2,
• $100 for each annual wellness exam completed from ages 2-99,
• $50 for each completed mammogram (women ages 40-75 once a year),
• $50 for each completed colonoscopy ( ages 45-75).

Here’s what you can expect during a wellness visit:

Health Assessment

Your healthcare provider will review your medical history, including any current or previous diseases, smoking status, alcohol and substance use history, allergies, illnesses, surgeries, medications, vaccinations, and hospitalizations.

They also review your family’s medical history to determine if you might be increased risk for certain health conditions that can passed on genetically.

Vital Signs Check and Examination

• Your provider will measure your blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature.
• They also assess your height, weight, and body mass index (BMI).
• Women may need a Breast exam, PAP smear and/or Pelvic exam depending on age
• Men may need a Prostate exam and hernia check.
• Review your medication list with you.

Screening Tests

Depending on your age, gender, and risk factors, your provider may recommend various screening tests. These can include blood tests, urine tests, cholesterol checks, referrals for cancer screenings- such as mammogram or colonoscopy, screen for aneurysms and more.

The goal is to catch health problems early or prevent them altogether.

Immunizations

Review your records to see what immunizations you are due for and provide those at the wellness visit.

Healthy Lifestyle

An annual exam is the perfect time to review your diet, exercise regimen, sleep regimen and other issues about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Even if you feel healthy, regular wellness visits play a crucial role in maintaining good health and preventing future health problems. It also helps you build a better relationship with your doctor to better communicate with them. Well child visits help address and optimize the physical, mental and social needs of your child.

Remember, this is not a visit to discuss specific diagnostic health conditions. This visit is dedicated to addressing preventive health. Please make a separate appointment to discuss previously diagnosed health conditions and address all concerns associated with those. Please call Health and Wellness at 253-294-8229 to schedule your appointment today!

‍