Why You Shouldn’t Wait for a Medical Check-Up.

Health isn’t something we should take for granted. Whether you’re in your 30s, raising a family, or transitioning into retirement, your well-being depends on more than just feeling fine. Preventive care—especially a regular medical check-up—can help you avoid serious illness and stay in control of your health.

What Is a Medical Check-Up?

A check-up is more than just a routine visit. It’s a comprehensive review of your physical and mental health, guided by your medical history, lifestyle, and personal risk factors. It often includes:

• A complete medical review of symptoms, family history, and medications.
• A physical exam, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory status, and weight trends.
• Bloodwork for cholesterol, glucose, kidney/liver function, and other key markers.
• Age-appropriate screening (e.g., diabetes, cancer, bone density, STIs).
• Mental health screening, stress assessment, and sleep/diet evaluation.

Dr. Helen Dion approaches each check-up as a collaborative conversation. It’s not just about ticking boxes—it’s about personalized care for real life.

Why Routine Health Exams Matter

Many medical conditions develop gradually and quietly. High blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and thyroid dysfunction often don’t cause symptoms until they’re advanced. A proactive check-up is how these issues are caught early—when treatment is easier and outcomes are better.

Regular evaluations also help monitor changes over time. Your results are tracked, discussed, and used to create a care plan that evolves with you.

Who Should Get a Check-Up—and When?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but these general guidelines apply:

Adults 40 and over:

Annual check-ups are highly recommended, especially for those without a regular family doctor. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and cancer increase with age.

Anyone with chronic illness or family history:

If you or a close relative have experienced conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or cancer, routine check-ups are essential—even before age 40.

Women during hormonal transitions:

Pregnancy, postpartum recovery, perimenopause, and menopause bring major changes. These stages benefit from regular check-ins to adjust care, screen for new concerns, and maintain well-being.

Professionals under high stress or shift work:

If your job involves demanding hours, physical exertion, or irregular sleep, your health needs proactive attention. Medical evaluations help prevent burnout and catch hidden issues early.

Children under 5:

Pediatric check-ups should follow the Alberta health guidelines. These visits monitor development, update immunizations, and support healthy growth.

What to Expect from a Check-Up with Dr. Dion

Dr. Helen Dion believes in personalized, compassionate care. A typical visit includes:

Is It Covered in Alberta?

In most cases, preventive check-ups are covered by Alberta Health Care, especially when done by a family physician in a publicly funded clinic. However, additional testing, private services, or forms may incur fees. Always ask what’s included before your appointment.

The Bottom Line

Your health deserves time, attention, and professional guidance. Whether it’s been years since your last check-up, or you simply want to stay ahead, now is the time to prioritize your care.

Dr. Helen Dion welcomes new and returning patients in Calgary. To find her current clinic and book your appointment, please visit the location and booking page on this website.

Taking care of yourself starts with a simple step: showing up.