Understanding the difference between an annual physical exam and a sick visit helps you schedule the right appointment, use your insurance benefits wisely, and receive the most appropriate care.
Both visits are important — but they serve different purposes.
What Is an Annual Physical Exam?
An annual physical exam is a preventive care visit focused on maintaining your long-term health and preventing future illnesses.
Purpose:
Prevent disease
Detect health risks early
Monitor overall wellness
Update screenings and vaccines
What It Includes:
Complete health history review
Blood pressure, weight, and BMI check
Routine blood tests (as needed)
Cholesterol and diabetes screening
Age-based cancer screenings
Lifestyle counseling
Immunization review
Insurance Coverage:
Most insurance plans cover annual physicals at no cost when done as a preventive visit with an in-network provider.
What Is a Sick Visit?
A sick visit (also called a problem-focused visit) is scheduled when you have specific symptoms, illnesses, or medical concerns that need evaluation and treatment.
Purpose:
Diagnose illness
Treat symptoms
Manage existing conditions
Adjust medications
What It Includes:
Evaluation of your symptoms
Physical exam focused on the problem
Diagnostic testing (if needed)
Prescriptions or treatment plans
Follow-up care
Common Reasons for Sick Visits:
Fever, cough, or infection
Headache or pain
Stomach problems
Allergies or asthma flare-ups
Skin rashes
Chronic condition flare-ups
Insurance Coverage:
Sick visits usually involve copays, deductibles, or coinsurance, depending on your plan.
Annual Physical vs. Sick Visit: Quick Comparison
Can Both Happen in the Same Visit?
Yes — sometimes.
If during your annual exam you discuss new symptoms or medical problems, your provider may need to perform a sick visit evaluation as well.
In this case:
Part of the visit may be billed as preventive
Part may be billed as medical care
You may have some out-of-pocket costs
Our staff will explain this clearly so there are no surprises.
How to Choose the Right Appointment
Schedule an Annual Physical if you:
Feel generally well
Want routine checkups
Need preventive screenings
Are due for your yearly exam
Schedule a Sick Visit if you:
Have pain or discomfort
Feel unwell
Have new symptoms
Need medication changes
Have chronic condition issues
Choosing the right visit helps you get faster, more focused care.
Tips to Maximize Your Visit
To avoid billing confusion:
Tell us your main reason for the visit when booking
Separate preventive and medical concerns when possible
Ask about insurance coverage
Bring your symptom list
Share all concerns honestly
We’ll help you plan your care in the best way.
Why Both Visits Matter
Both annual physicals and sick visits are essential for your health:
Annual exams prevent disease
Sick visits treat problems early
Together, they support long-term wellness
Reduce hospital visits
Improve quality of life
Preventive and medical care work best when combined.
Schedule the Right Visit Today
At Passion Health Primary Care, we offer:
Comprehensive annual physicals
Same-day sick visits
Personalized treatment plans
Transparent insurance guidance
Friendly, experienced providers
Whether you need a routine checkup or immediate care, our team is here to support you.
