Which Doctors Do You Need to See in Your 30s?

Which doctors should you see in your 30s?

To get the most comprehensive healthcare during your thirties, consider adding a few different types of physicians to your care team. Some may seem more obvious, like getting a physical exam at your primary care doctor’s office or seeing your dentist for your twice-yearly cleaning and exam. Others, however, may not have been on your radar until now. The doctors you should visit in your thirties include:

Primary care physician (PCP)

Your primary care doctor is the provider you see for common, non-urgent medical concerns. They treat you when you’re sick (unless you’re experiencing an illness or injury that’s not quite an emergency but also not able to wait until you can see your PCP — that’s where urgent care comes in.)

Dentist

The American Dental Association recommends going to the dentist at least once or twice a year for a cleaning and exam.

Optometrist

In your thirties, you should visit your eye doctor for a routine eye exam every two years, according to the American Optometric Association. If you have past vision problems or a family history of eye disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, you may need to see the optometrist more often. Always follow their recommendation for how frequently you need your eyes checked.

Dermatologist

Though it’s a good idea to do monthly self-checks at home, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends seeing a dermatologist once a year to help detect any potential cancer early, before it has a chance to start growing.

Mental health professional

Your twenties and thirties can be full of big life transitions, and your mental health needs to be a priority. Even if you don’t have a history of depression, anxiety, or another type of mental health condition, seeing a therapist and/or a psychiatrist may be a good idea when you’re navigating life. If you don’t have a mental health provider in mind, talk to your PCP as they may be able to make a referral.

Allergist

As if having allergies isn’t bad enough, they can get worse over time. If you feel like you’re constantly battling cold-like symptoms and the mere thought of spring makes you reach for the antihistamines, it’s probably time to see a professional.

Cardiologist

Your primary care doctor may recommend visiting a cardiologist if you are showing symptoms that could be due to a heart condition, such as shortness of breath, chest pains, or dizziness, according to the American College of Cardiology. If you have a personal or family history of heart disease, getting checked while you're young and in your thirties is a good idea that can help you prevent heart disease, instead of having to treat it in an emergency.

Endocrinologist

Endocrinologists specialize in treating hormonal conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disease, and metabolic disorders.

Fertility doctor

Also known as a reproductive endocrinologist, a fertility doctor can discuss your family planning options with you and address any infertility concerns. If you’re undecided about having children, it’s a good idea to discuss your options with a fertility doctor.

Radiologist

If you have a family history of breast cancer, you may need to start getting mammograms before the typically-recommended age of forty. Your doctor may also refer you to a radiologist for an MRI, CT scan, or x-ray to help them diagnose an injury or illness.

Need a handy list for #allthedoctors you need to see in your 30s? We've got you covered.

How Often Should Adults Get a Checkup?

Adults should generally get a check-up at least once a year, but the frequency can vary based on age, health status, and specific risk factors. For younger adults in their 20s and 30s, a check-up every 1 to 3 years may be sufficient if they are healthy and have no chronic conditions. As individuals enter their 40s and 50s, annual check-ups become more important to monitor emerging health issues and manage preventive care. For those aged 60 and older, more frequent visits may be recommended to address age-related health concerns and ensure proper management of existing conditions. Ultimately, it's essential for adults to consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best schedule for their individual health needs.

What Are the Benefits of Regular Checkups?

Regular checkups play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and wellness. They provide an opportunity for individuals to engage with their healthcare providers, discuss any concerns, and receive guidance on preventive measures. By prioritizing regular checkups, patients can take proactive steps toward their health, ultimately leading to a better quality of life.

Here are some key benefits of regular checkups:

• Early Detection of Health Issues: Regular checkups can help identify potentially life-threatening health conditions early, before they develop into more serious problems.

• Timely Treatment: Early treatment of health conditions increases the chances of a positive outcome and can prevent complications.

• Monitoring Existing Conditions: Regular visits allow for the ongoing management and monitoring of existing health issues, reducing the risk of worsening symptoms or severe complications.

• Vaccination and Screening Updates: Checkups ensure that individuals stay up-to-date on necessary vaccinations and screening tests, which are vital for preventing disease.

• Cost Savings: By catching health issues early, regular checkups can limit extra healthcare costs associated with treating complicated or serious conditions that may arise if left unchecked.

• Building a Relationship with Your PCP: Regular interactions with a primary care physician foster an open and honest relationship, making it easier to discuss health concerns and receive personalized care.

• Health Education: Checkups provide an opportunity to learn about new ways to live a healthier, longer life, empowering individuals to make informed health choices.

Talking to Your Doctor

Effective communication with your doctor is essential for receiving the best possible care. A productive dialogue allows you to express your concerns, ask questions, and understand your health better. Preparing for your appointment and being proactive in your discussions can lead to more tailored and effective healthcare solutions.

Here are some tips and questions to help you engage in meaningful conversations with your doctor:

• Prepare a List of Questions: Before your appointment, make a list of questions and topics you want to discuss, prioritizing the most important ones to ensure they are addressed.

• Ask for Clarification: If you don’t understand something your doctor tells you, don’t hesitate to let them know and ask for explanations in simpler terms.

• Seek Completeness: If your doctor doesn’t fully answer your question, ask for more information to ensure you have a clear understanding.

• Repeat Back Information: Paraphrasing what your doctor has said can help confirm your understanding and clarify any miscommunications.

• Take Notes: Jotting down important points during your conversation can help you remember key information and instructions.

• Inquire About Communication Preferences: Ask your doctor how they prefer to handle follow-up questions after your visit, whether through email, a patient portal, or phone calls.

• Address Hearing Issues: If you have difficulty hearing your doctor, let them know so they can adjust their communication style.

• Express Your Concerns: If you disagree with a recommendation or treatment plan, feel free to voice your concerns; your input is valuable in shaping your care.

• Discuss Sensitive Topics: Remember that your doctor is bound by confidentiality and cannot share your information without your permission, which can help ease conversations about uncomfortable or embarrassing issues.