Preventive care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, with the right checklist, it can become one of the simplest and most rewarding parts of your health routine. Think of it as an annual tune-up—not for your car, but for your body.

The key? Consistency and clarity. When you know what to check each year, you eliminate guesswork and stay in control of your wellness journey. This guide will walk you through how to build a yearly preventive care checklist that actually works—for your life, your schedule, and your goals.

How to Build a Yearly Preventive Care Checklist

Step 1: Schedule Your Annual Physical Exam

Your yearly checkup is your health baseline. During this visit, your provider will:

• Review your medical and family history

• Check blood pressure, heart rate, and weight

• Order bloodwork (cholesterol, glucose, etc.)

• Screen for signs of chronic conditions

• Discuss lifestyle, stress, and mental health

Most preventive care providers will help organize the rest of your care around this single visit.

✅ Add to your checklist: Annual physical with full blood panel

Step 2: Know Your Age-Specific Screenings

Screenings vary based on your age, gender, and health history. Here are a few general guidelines:

In Your 20s–30s:

• Blood pressure check (every 1–2 years)

• Pap smear (every 3 years or as recommended)

• STI screening

• Skin checks for moles or changes

In Your 40s–50s:

• Cholesterol test (every 4–6 years or more often if at risk)

• Mammogram (starting at age 40 or as advised)

• Colonoscopy (starting at age 45)

60 and beyond:

• Bone density screening

• Cognitive assessment

• Hearing and vision tests

✅ Add to your checklist: Update screenings based on age and risk

Step 3: Stay Current with Vaccinations

Vaccines aren’t just for kids. Adults need boosters and age-specific shots to stay protected.

• Flu shot (every year)

• COVID-19 vaccine (as updated)

• Tdap booster (every 10 years)

• Shingles and pneumonia (age 50+)

✅ Add to your checklist: Annual review of vaccination status

Step 4: Don’t Forget Mental Health

Your mind deserves the same attention as your body.

• Screening for anxiety or depression

• Stress-level check-in

• Sleep quality and fatigue questions

• Counseling or referrals if needed

✅ Add to your checklist: Mental health evaluation or discussion

Step 5: Prioritize Preventive Lifestyle Habits

Your provider may offer or refer you for:

• Nutritional counseling

• Smoking cessation programs

• Weight management or exercise planning

• Alcohol use assessments

Clinics focused on preventive health often include lifestyle evaluations as part of annual exams.

✅ Add to your checklist: At least one lifestyle goal to work on

Step 6: Keep Records and Set Reminders

• Create a digital or printed version of your checklist

• Note appointment dates and test results

• Use calendar alerts for annual tasks

• Reassess your checklist every year based on results or health changes

✅ Add to your checklist: Track results and set reminders for follow-ups

Sample Yearly Preventive Care Checklist

• Book annual physical exam

• Update blood tests (cholesterol, glucose, etc.)

• Review and schedule screenings (age-based)

• Check and update vaccination record

• Complete mental health check-in

• Set 1–2 wellness goals (e.g., improve diet, increase activity)

• Schedule dental and vision exams

• Review medication and supplement list

• Refill prescriptions and update pharmacy records

• Set reminders for next year’s visits

Final Thoughts

A yearly preventive care checklist isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about setting a rhythm that keeps your health in check year after year. When you approach wellness with intention, the results are powerful: fewer surprises, more peace of mind, and better control over your long-term health.

So go ahead—create your checklist, book that appointment, and take charge of your health before something forces you to.

Your future self will thank you.