Two Important Types of Medical Exam Your Doctor May Not Be Doing

When you visit your doctor for a physical, you hope that he or she is providing you with the best medical care possible. For the most part, doctors do a good job of answering the needs of their patients, but when it comes to general health maintenance some doctors fall short due to time constraints. Although some have questioned the importance of a regular physical exam, theres no doubt that problems can be picked up earlier when a patient is examined regularly. Ever wonder if there are important exams your doctor isnt doing? Here are two types of medical exams that all doctors dont do, but are critical for your long term health.

Types of Medical Exams: The Full Body Skin Check

This is one exam that could save your life, particularly if youve been a sun worshipper. A recent study published in Family Practice News showed that most malignant melanomas werent discovered by the patient, but were found during a routine full-body skin exam performed by a dermatologist. Many family physicians and internists fail to do this important screen during a physical exam which can leave small malignant melanomas undetected with potentially disastrous results. Melanomas can arise de novo as well as from pre-existing moles so its important that all moles be examined for signs of changes on a yearly basis and that other suspicious skin findings be noted. If your doctor fails to do this exam, make a yearly appointment with a dermatologist. It could save your life.

Types of Medical Exams: Digital Rectal Exam

This is one type of medical exam no one wants to talk about and few are going to ask their doctor to do it; but maybe they should. For males, this exam is important for checking the size and consistency of the prostate for enlargement or irregularities that might indicate prostate cancer. During the exam, a small sample of stool is taken to check for the presence of blood that could indicate a colon cancer or colon polyps. Prostate cancer and colon cancer are two of the most common cancers diagnosed in America and this type of exam can detect it at an earlier stage when its most treatable. Make sure your doctor is doing this test regularly if youre over the age of forty.

The bottom line? These two types of medical exams should be done on a yearly basis. Is your doctor following through?

References:

Family Practice News. September 15, 2009. page 28