If you want to take care of your health, you should go for an annual physical check-up. But what if you don’t have a primary care physician in Garland, TX? You’re not alone. According to the CDC reports, almost one out of four adults in the U.S. does not have a primary care doctor.
Perhaps it is because you have relocated, your previous physician is retired, or you have just never established one. In that case, you may be asking yourself,
“How do I schedule a check-up if I don’t have a doctor?”
The best news is you still have plenty of options. You don’t need to skip your physical just because you don’t have a primary physician.
In this guide, we’ll break down
- Why annual check-ups matter
- Where can you go if you don’t have a doctor
- How to schedule your visit in a simple, stress-free way.
What is Your Annual Physical Checkup?
An annual physical check-up is a yearly visit to a doctor or healthcare provider. These doctors make sure your body is healthy. It’s a lot easier than you think. You will never be turned away for not having a reason.
It is like you receive mental health therapy. You get treatment to improve your health, not because you are sick. A yearly preventive care check is the same as a car service. It is meant for performance improvement.
Why Your Annual Physical Still Matters
Even if you feel fine, you still must go for your annual check-up. Because many conditions, like high blood pressure or diabetes, don’t cause symptoms until they’re advanced.
Some quick numbers:
- 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. has high blood pressure, but nearly 1 in 5 don’t know it. (American Heart Association).
- According to a study in BMC Medicine, regular checkups can lower the risk of dying from preventable causes by 23%.
Your physical is more than a routine. It’s preventive care that can add years to your life.
What’s Included in an Annual Physical Exam?
If you haven’t had one in a while, here’s what’s included:
| Step | What It Includes |
| Vitals | Blood pressure, heart rate, weight, temperature |
| History | Past health issues, medicines, and family conditions |
| Physical check | Heart, lungs, skin, eyes, ears, abdomen |
| Lab work | Blood tests for cholesterol, sugar, thyroid |
| Vaccines | Flu, tetanus, or others, based on age |
| Advice | Lifestyle, diet, exercise, and mental health |
The Problem: No Primary Care Physician
These examinations are often overseen by a primary care physician (PCP). This physician can direct your care because they are aware of your medical history. But if you don’t have one, you may feel stuck. Questions like these pop up:
- Whom should I contact to schedule a check-up?
- Will a clinic see me if I’m not a patient of it?
- What if I need lab work or follow-up care?
Don’t worry, you still have options like Vida Care Medical Center that accept new patients and let you book quickly.
Steps to Schedule Your Annual Physical Check-up Without a Primary Care Physician
Step 1: Find a Clinic
Search for local clinics that take patients without a PCP. Use terms like “annual physical near me” or “wellness check clinic.”
If you’re in Garland, Texas, Vida Care Medical Center is a solid choice. They let you schedule wellness exams even if you’re a first-time patient.
Step 2: Call and Ask Questions
Before booking, call the clinic. Ask:
- Do you take new patients for annual physicals?
- What’s included in the exam?
- Do you accept my insurance?
- If not, what’s the cash price?
- Can I get a copy of the results?
A five-minute call saves time and confusion.
Step 3: Prepare Before You Go
Since the clinic won’t have your full history, bring your own details. Write these down:
- Medications you take (including supplements)
- Allergies
- Past surgeries or illnesses
- Family health problems (like diabetes or heart disease)
Also, jot down your questions. Doctors appreciate it, and you’ll walk away with real answers.
Step 4: Expect the Usual
Even without a PCP, your exam looks the same. The doctor examines you, a nurse takes your vital signs, and you might have to complete blood work. They will guide you to follow-up care if something out of the ordinary occurs.
Don’t hold back during the visit. Be honest about your habits: exercise, alcohol, sleep, and even stress. The physician cannot help you if you don’t let them inside the picture.
Step 5: Think About Costs
If you don’t have insurance, don’t panic. Many clinics post flat fees for physicals. Retail clinics in pharmacies sometimes charge around $75–$150 for a basic exam.
Community health centers may charge less, using a sliding scale based on income. It’s worth asking before you book.
Step 6: Consider Building a Primary Care Relationship
You can get your physical without a primary care doctor. But in the long run, having one pays off. They track your results year to year and spot patterns.
For example, if your blood pressure slowly creeps up over time, a PCP will notice. Without one, it’s harder to connect the dots.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Book early in the year. January and September fill fast.
- Wear comfy clothes for easy checks.
- Bring ID, an insurance card, and a payment method.
- Ask how you’ll get lab results—online, by phone, or by mail.
- Schedule your next checkup before you leave.
Final Thoughts
Not having a primary doctor doesn’t mean you should skip your yearly exam. Walk-in clinics, community centers, and clinics like primary care physician in Garland, TX make it easy to book.
So don’t wait until something feels wrong. Preventive care works best when you’re healthy. A one-hour visit once a year could save your life—or at least give you the peace of mind that you’re on the right track.
FAQs
What type of doctor is best for an annual physical?
A primary care physician is best for annual physicals. This includes
- Family doctors
- Internal medicine doctors (for adults)
- Pediatricians (for kids).
- Women may also see an OB/GYN.
What’s the Difference Between an Annual Physical and a Wellness Exam?
An annual physical is a full head-to-toe check of your overall health. It includes
- A physical exam, vital signs, and lab work
- A review of your medical history.
A wellness exam is usually focused on preventive care. It may cover
- Vaccines
- Screenings
- Lifestyle advice
2. How much does an annual physical cost without insurance?
The average cost of a physical examination ranges from $75 to $300. This cost depends on the clinic’s location and the necessary assessments. Community health clinics will charge a fee less than the average and may use a sliding scale.