Preventive Care in 2025: What Screenings Do You Actually Need?

Our Primary Care Doctor Helps You Stay Ahead — Not Just Catch Up

In a world full of wearable trackers, health apps, and Google searches, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes to your health. But here’s the truth: preventive care is still the most powerful tool we have to stay healthy — and it starts with your primary care provider (PCP).

Whether you're 25 or 65, routine screenings and checkups can catch problems early, prevent chronic conditions, and help you feel your best year-round.

So, what screenings and preventive care should you actually be getting in 2025?

What Is Preventive Care?

Preventive care includes health services like screenings, physical exams, blood tests, vaccinations, and counseling — all designed to prevent illness before it starts. Many of these services are covered by insurance at no cost, so skipping them can mean missing out on early diagnosis and peace of mind.

📋 Key Screenings You Shouldn’t Miss (Updated for 2025)

Here’s what’s currently recommended for most adults. Your primary care doctor can tailor this list based on your age, gender, family history, and lifestyle.

✅ Annual Physical Exam

Still the cornerstone of preventive care. Your doctor checks vital signs, updates your history, and sets your wellness goals.

🧪 Blood Pressure & Cholesterol

• Blood pressure: Checked at least once a year if you’re over 18.

• Cholesterol: Every 4–6 years after age 20; more often if you're at risk.

  
  

🩸 Diabetes Screening

• If you’re 35+ or overweight, an A1C or glucose test is recommended.

• New guidelines suggest starting earlier if you have a family history.

  
  

🧬 Cancer Screenings

• Colorectal cancer: Begin regular screenings at age 45 (earlier if at risk).

• Breast cancer: Mammograms recommended every 1–2 years starting at 40.

• Cervical cancer: Pap test every 3–5 years for most women 21–65.

• Prostate cancer: PSA tests discussed case-by-case starting at age 50 (earlier for men or those with a family history).

  
  

💉 Vaccinations

• Flu vaccine: Annually

• COVID-19 booster: Updated shots available yearly

• RSV vaccine: Now recommended for adults 60+ and some with chronic conditions

• Shingles and Pneumonia: For adults 50+ or those with underlying conditions

  
  

🧠 Mental Health & Cognitive Screening

More primary care doctors are now screening for anxiety, depression, and memory concerns — all during your annual visit.

🦴 Bone Density (DEXA Scan)

Recommended for women over 65 or younger women at risk for osteoporosis.

💡 Why See Your PCP for Preventive Care?

Because your primary care doctor sees the whole picture. We don’t just look at numbers — we track patterns, family history, and your day-to-day reality to create a plan that fits you. We’re also your best resource to interpret test results and guide you through any next steps.

Plus, with 2025’s advancements in healthcare tech, many clinics (ours included) are using smarter tools to monitor trends in your health over time — so we can act early.

📅 Don't Wait Until You Feel Sick

Preventive care is like maintaining a car: a little attention now can save you from major repairs later. Whether you're due for a screening or haven’t seen a doctor in a while, it’s never too late to start taking control of your health.

Schedule your annual wellness visit today — and let’s keep you on track for a healthy year ahead.