At Dr. Douglas Hilbert's Concierge Medicine practice in San Antonio, TX, our services include comprehensive physical examinations that provide a thorough, detailed view of your health. Our approach goes beyond standard screenings, integrating advanced diagnostic tools and personalized care to help detect potential health issues early. Our physical exams prioritize your well-being, providing an in-depth understanding of your health in a comfortable, convenient setting—all within our office.
What to Expect in Your Comprehensive Physical Examination
Our comprehensive physical examinations include several advanced diagnostics not commonly part of standard physicals. This expanded approach helps us identify conditions that might be overlooked in a routine checkup, allowing us to address issues proactively.
EKG (Electrocardiogram)
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart. This test can detect:
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Heart muscle abnormalities
- Previous heart attacks
An EKG is critical for understanding your cardiovascular health, especially if you have risk factors for heart disease.
Chest X-Ray
A chest X-ray provides valuable insight into your heart and lungs. This imaging test can reveal:
- Lung abnormalities (e.g., infections, chronic conditions)
- Heart size and shape (which can indicate underlying heart conditions)
- Detection of potential issues in surrounding structures
Including a chest X-ray in your routine physical allows us to identify potential concerns early and guide you to appropriate care.
Bone Density Test with Advanced DEXA Scan
Our advanced DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan goes beyond basic bone density measurement. Using trabecular bone mass analysis, this test provides a detailed assessment of bone quality, essential for:
- Detecting osteoporosis and other bone-related issues before they cause significant damage
- Monitoring bone health over time, particularly in patients at higher risk for bone loss
- Offering a tailored approach to your bone health management
We typically recommend bone density testing for women starting at age 40 and men beginning at age 50, though it may be beneficial earlier if clinically indicated.
Why Choose a Comprehensive Physical Examination?
Choosing a comprehensive physical exam with Dr. Hilbert provides a more complete view of your health. This proactive approach focuses on identifying health issues early, allowing for timely interventions, and helping you take control of your well-being. Unlike standard physicals, which often cover only basic tests, our exams provide a complete assessment of critical health factors in one convenient appointment. You can expect:
Convenience: All tests are in-office, so you don't need to visit multiple facilities.
Advanced Diagnostics: We offer screenings beyond the basics, giving you access to tools that identify potential concerns early.
Personalized Care: Dr. Hilbert's concierge model ensures that every aspect of your health is evaluated according to your unique needs, with time dedicated to discussing results and answering your questions.
Appointment Lengths
The comprehensive physical typically takes 60-90 minutes for new patients, allowing Dr. Hilbert ample time to assess your health thoroughly and discuss any findings. For existing patients, the examination is shorter, usually 30-45 minutes, as it builds upon previous evaluations and focuses on any new developments.
Why Choose Dr. Douglas Hilbert
Dr. Douglas Hilbert is a highly respected, board-certified internal medicine physician and a Fellow of the American College of Physicians (FACP), recognized for his expertise and dedication to evidence-based, patient-centered care. With a strong foundation in traditional internal medicine, Dr. Hilbert takes a collaborative approach, ensuring that each patient receives a comprehensive and tailored health assessment during their physical exam.
Dr. Hilbert prioritizes quality over quantity at his concierge medical practice, fostering long-term relationships with his patients built on trust and mutual respect. His approach to comprehensive physical exams goes beyond routine checkups—he carefully evaluates each patient's unique health profile, integrates advanced diagnostics, and provides personalized recommendations to optimize well-being. His extensive experience in both hospital and outpatient settings allows him to address a wide range of health concerns with precision and compassion. Dr. Hilbert is a trusted choice for those seeking a physician who truly listens, applies the latest medical advancements, and is dedicated to exceptional care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Comprehensive physicals are ideal for adults who want a detailed understanding of their health, including those with risk factors for heart disease, respiratory conditions, or osteoporosis.
No referral is needed. All diagnostics, including EKGs, chest X-rays, and DEXA scans, are performed within our office as part of your comprehensive physical exam.
It depends on the type of tests your doctor plans to perform. If your comprehensive physical includes fasting blood work, such as a lipid panel or glucose test, you may need to fast for 8-12 hours beforehand—meaning no food and only water. However, if fasting is not required, you can eat and drink as usual. Dr. Hilbert will provide specific instructions before your exam.
You should bring a list of all current medications (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements), your medical history, vaccination records, insurance information, and any test results from previous doctors. It's also helpful to bring a list of questions or concerns you'd like to discuss and a record of recent symptoms, if applicable.
Preparation depends on your specific health needs and what will be assessed. In general, you should:
- Wear comfortable clothing for easy access to areas that need to be examined.
- Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol the day before, as it may affect blood pressure readings.
- Stay hydrated to make blood draws easier.
- Write down any symptoms, questions, or health concerns to discuss.
- If you're required to fast, ensure you follow the given instructions.
If an abnormal finding is detected, Dr. Hilbert will discuss the results with you and explain the next steps. This may include ordering additional tests, referring you to a specialist, or recommending lifestyle changes or medications. Some abnormalities may require close monitoring over time, while others may need immediate attention.
Yes, a comprehensive physical exam typically includes a full-body assessment. This includes checking your vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature), heart and lung function, abdomen, skin, neurological responses, and musculoskeletal health. Your doctor may also assess your vision, hearing, and reflexes and perform gender-specific screenings if needed.
Comprehensive physical exams are beneficial at any age, but they become more important as you age. Many doctors recommend starting routine physicals in young adulthood (around age 18-21) and continuing them throughout life. Early and more frequent exams may be necessary for individuals with chronic conditions, family history of illnesses, or specific health concerns.
The recommended frequency of comprehensive physicals varies based on age, health status, and medical history:
- Ages 18-39: Every 2-3 years if generally healthy.
- Ages 40-49: Every 1-2 years.
- Ages 50 and older: Annually or more frequently if you have ongoing health concerns.
Dr. Hilbert may recommend more frequent exams based on personal risk factors, chronic conditions, or family history.
Take Control of Your Health with a Comprehensive Physical Exam in San Antonio, TX
If you're ready to take a proactive approach to your health, call us at 210-614-4000 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Hilbert today. Experience the difference of personalized, in-depth care that prioritizes your total well-being.
