Adult Primary Care

Routine physical exams are a proactive way to find and address health concerns before they become serious health problems. Here are answers to some of the questions you may have about this type of visit.

How often do I need a routine physical? 

The answer to this question depends on your age and health history and is something to discuss with your PCP. If you’re a healthy, young adult, you may only need a routine physical every two to three years. Once you hit your 40s, you will probably need more frequent exams, and adults older than 50 should have a routine physical every year.

What’s included in a routine physical? 

During a routine physical, your PCP will typically measure your vital signs, check your height and weight, review your medical history and current medications, and examine major systems, like your heart, lungs, abdomen, and skin. Your PCP may also order lab tests or health screenings based on your age, health history, and risk factors. 

How do routine physicals fit into “preventive care?”

Along with routine immunizations and health screenings, routine physical exams are an important aspect of preventive care — care aimed at preventing health problems or detecting potential health issues before symptoms arise. But sometimes, during a routine physical exam, your PCP may notice abnormalities or symptoms that suggest a potential health issue. When that happens, the focus of the exam may shift to “diagnostic care,” involving additional tests or exams.

Because routine physical exams involve a comprehensive checkup, we schedule these visits as longer appointments that allow enough time for you and your PCP to go over all the details without rushing. Here’s what you need to know about when and how to book this appointment.

How far in advance should I schedule a routine physical? 

Plan to schedule your routine physical at least eight weeks in advance. Routine physical exams are important, but they are not usually urgent. Scheduling routine care in advance allows our clinicians to keep slots open each week for patients who have urgent healthcare needs, like unexpected illnesses or injuries, and allows you to book a time that works best for your schedule.

How do I schedule a routine physical at MIT Health? 

You can schedule a routine physical in Cambridge or Lexington by phone or online. Book a time with your PCP, if you’ve chosen one, or with any available provider. You can view available times and providers and schedule online, or call 617-253-4481, option 1. (To schedule online, you must have had at least one previous visit at MIT Health OR be an MIT student OR be covered by an MIT-sponsored health plan that is in your name.)

When you talk with your PCP about health screenings, you'll discuss potential benefits and risks. Your PCP will order health screenings when you both agree that the potential benefit of early detection outweighs the risk of a false positive result that could lead to unnecessary stress and further, more invasive tests. Your PCP will only recommend health screenings that are appropriate for your age, sex, family history, and other risk factors. This may include screenings for:

• Colon cancer: Learn more about risk factors and screening tools. 
• Breast cancer: Understand your risk level and screening options.
• Prostate cancer: Find out if prostate cancer screening is right for you.

If you’re feeling sick or have a non-life-threatening injury, you can make a same-day appointment in Primary Care. Call 617-253-4481, and describe your symptoms to a triage nurse. If you need to be seen immediately, the nurse will schedule a same-day appointment with a clinician who has an opening.

MIT Health’s Urgent Care Service, on the first floor of E23, is another option for same-day care. Urgent Care is open from 8 a.m.–8 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and most holidays. You can walk in and wait for an available clinician, or you can reserve a spot online. And any time MIT Health is closed, you can call our 24-hour nurse line at 617-253-4481, speak to a triage nurse, and get advice about what to do next. 

PCPs at MIT Health partner with patients to manage chronic conditions by delivering consistent, personalized care aimed at long-term health and stability. Care for a chronic condition involves regular monitoring of symptoms, managing medications, and preventative care that minimizes disease progression and prevents complications. Because chronic conditions often require input from various specialists, PCPs coordinate with other healthcare professionals, ensuring seamless communication, accurate information sharing, and a cohesive treatment plan.

Primary Care clinicians can order prescription refills when you need one. To request a refill, send your provider a message through our online patient portal, HealthELife, or call the Primary Care Service directly at 617-258-9355. 

MIT Health’s Behavioral Health in Primary Care is available by referral only. Your MIT Health PCP can refer you to Behavioral Health for diagnostic consultation, treatment recommendations, medication evaluations, and referrals to community resources.

MIT Health’s Primary Care Service provides both in-person and telehealth appointments. A telehealth appointment can be a convenient option when your PCP doesn’t need to examine you or order lab tests. Consider requesting a telehealth appointment for follow-up visits, medication management, or a minor ailment that doesn’t require a physical exam.