News
Why an Annual Wellness Visit with a Primary Care Physician Matters
January 22, 2026
By Dr. Logan Pittman, Primary Care Physician at Highpoint Family Wellness - Gallatin
Most of us visit a doctor when we are sick, in pain, or facing a new health concern. However, the foundation of long-term health isn’t found in reactive care; it’s built through a proactive partnership with a primary care provider.
Yet, more than a quarter of Americans (27%) say they are not up to date with their health screenings and immunizations, according to a recent study released by The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).
As we step into a new year, many of us focus on resolutions like fitness and diet. However, the most critical step in a health journey is to establish a baseline. While most people only visit a doctor when they are sick or in pain, staying healthy requires a proactive partnership with a primary care provider even when you feel your best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Annual Wellness Visits
When should I go to Urgent Care vs. seeing my Primary Care Provider?
It helps to think of Urgent Care as a solution for the "right now"—it’s great for immediate, one-time issues like a minor injury or a sudden illness. However, as your Primary Care Physician (PCP), I am your partner for the "always."
My role at Highpoint Family Wellness – Gallatin is to manage your "whole-person" health over time. While I treat you when you’re sick, I also focus on diagnosing new illnesses, managing chronic conditions like diabetes, and coordinating your care with specialists. By seeing me regularly, we build a medical history that helps us stay ahead of potential health issues.
What specific screenings do I need based on my age?
Preventive care isn't "one size fits all." During your wellness visit, I recommend screenings based on your life stage:
In your 20s and 30s: We focus on baseline blood pressure, cholesterol, and cervical cancer screenings (Pap tests).
In your 40s: This is a critical decade to begin annual mammograms and start colon cancer screenings.
In your 50s and 60s: We prioritize bone density testing, lung cancer screenings for those with a history of smoking, and shingles vaccinations.
Seniors (65+): We focus on Medicare wellness components, including cognitive health assessments and fall risk screenings.
What actually happens during a yearly physical exam?
During your visit, I evaluate how your body is performing by monitoring vital signs like blood pressure, heart rate, and BMI. Depending on your history, we may also include:
Diagnostic Screenings: Blood work to check your thyroid function, blood sugar levels, or vitamin deficiencies.
Preventive Discussion: Reviewing your family history to see if you qualify for early screenings for heart disease or cancer.
The "Baseline": By establishing what your health looks like when you are well, I am much better equipped to recognize minute changes in the future that could signal a problem.
Are annual wellness exams expensive?
Many people are surprised to learn how affordable these visits are. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, fully cover one wellness checkup each year as a preventive benefit. This means there is often no out-of-pocket cost for the exam itself. I always recommend a quick call to your insurance provider to confirm the specific details of your coverage.
A Message from Dr. Pittman
I really enjoy getting to know my patients and taking the time to form a team with you. My goal is to eliminate problems before they start through prevention. I invite you to join us at our newly relocated clinic to start your year with a clear picture of your health.
Ready to schedule? Our clinic recently moved to a new, convenient location to better serve the community.
Clinic: Highpoint Family Wellness – Gallatin with Ascension Saint Thomas
Address: 300 Steam Plant Road, Suite 130, Gallatin, TN 37066
Phone: 615-328-3750
Book Online: Highpoint Health Partners