Physicals

Annual physicals are one of the easiest ways to maintain your health and reduce the risk of chronic medical problems. At Harmony Clinic (Clinica Armonia) in Nashville, Tennessee, family practice physician assistant Steven Gardner, PA, offers physicals to people of all ages, including annual, sports, school, and Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals. Call Harmony Clinic (Clinica Armonia) to schedule a physical exam, or book your appointment online today. 

Is a physical exam necessary if I feel healthy?

Yes. Scheduling a physical at least once a year is important, whether you feel healthy or not. Many chronic conditions, like high blood pressure and diabetes, present few obvious symptoms early on. Physicals at Harmony Clinic (Clinica Armonia) can provide peace of mind and alert you to problems when they respond best to treatment. 

Are there different types of physicals?

At Harmony Clinic (Clinica Armonia), Steven offers several types of physicals, including:

Annual physicals

Annual physicals assess your general health and well-being. Steven evaluates your basic bodily functions, updates your vaccinations, addresses any concerns, and orders lab work. He can also refill prescription medication or refer you to specialists if needed.

Sports physicals

Many organized athletic organizations require participants to undergo a sports physical before the start of a new season. During a sports physical, Steven assesses your general health and checks for underlying health problems that might increase your risk of sports injuries. At the end of your exam, he fills out paperwork that lets you begin participation. 

School physicals

Most school districts require students to undergo a physical exam in preparation for the new school year. During a school physical, Steven completes an exam, checking your child for acute or chronic conditions that might affect their performance in the classroom. He also updates your child’s vaccinations and asks about their lifestyle, including their diet, exercise, and sleep habits.

Department of Transportation physicals

People who drive commercial vehicles for a living, like semi-truck and bus operators, must undergo a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical every two years. The physical ensures you’re healthy enough to operate heavy machinery. If you have diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, or heart disease, more frequent DOT exams might be necessary.

Veterans Affairs (VA) claim exams or compensation and pension (C&P)

A VA claim exam is a physical required by all U.S. military veterans who file a benefits claim. During this type of physical, Steven completes an exam and fills out paperwork that you can submit to the VA.

What should I bring to my physical exam?

To ensure your physical exam at Harmony Clinic (Clinica Armonia) goes smoothly, bring the following items:

• Names, contact info, and addresses of doctors or specialists you regularly see
• Medical and surgical history
• Questions that you’d like to ask Steven about your health
• A list of medications or supplements you currently take

Bring information about any allergies you have if you’re undergoing a sports, school, DOT, or VA physical, and the necessary paperwork for Steven to sign.

Call Harmony Clinic (Clinica Armonia) to schedule a physical exam, or book your appointment online today.