How often should adults get a health checkup?

Health experts say adults should schedule regular checkups to maintain wellness and manage risk, but the ideal interval varies with age, health status and risk factors. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasize personalized schedules rather than a one-size-fits-all annual exam. For generally healthy adults under 40, many clinicians recommend visits every one to three years; adults aged 40 to 64 are often advised to have at least yearly assessments; those 65 and older typically benefit from annual visits. People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or hypertension should see a primary care clinician more frequently, often every three months to six months depending on control. Preventive screening intervals also differ: colorectal cancer screening now commonly begins at 45, while breast and cervical cancer screening follows age-based guidance from specialist societies. Primary care physicians interviewed highlight that routine visits allow medication reviews, vaccine updates, mental health screening and management of new symptoms. The U.S. organizations underline that specific services—blood pressure checks, cholesterol testing, and immunizations—follow evidence-based timelines rather than a fixed visit schedule. Insurance coverage and access remain barriers; public health officials encourage patients to contact clinics to arrange telehealth or in-person visits tailored to need. Experts recommend maintaining an up-to-date record of family history and medications and bring concerns to the clinician promptly. Clinicians point to authoritative resources such as USPSTF recommendations, CDC guidance and professional society statements, and patients are advised to discuss screening schedules including colonoscopy timing, lipid testing, and vaccination timing during an initial visit to set a personalized plan today. In summary, adults should seek individualized advice from their primary care clinician, with healthy younger adults seen every one to three years and older adults or those with chronic illness seen annually or more often.