Do I need blood work every year?

Not always. Some people benefit from yearly tests, while others need them less often. Your age, health conditions and previous results guide the schedule, so ask your clinician.

Do I have to fast before my physical?

Only for certain tests, such as a fasting glucose. Many cholesterol tests can be done without fasting. Confirm with your clinic when you book.

What is the difference between a CBC and a metabolic panel?

A CBC counts blood cells and checks hemoglobin. A metabolic panel measures blood sugar, electrolytes, kidney function and, in the comprehensive version, liver enzymes.

Does a normal blood test mean I am healthy?

A normal result is reassuring but does not rule out every condition. Symptoms and risk factors still matter, so discuss them with your clinician.

How long do results take?

Timing varies by test and laboratory. Ask your clinic when to expect results and how they will be shared with you.

Preventive careBy Kel Healthcare TeamOctober 28, 2026Updated October 28, 2026

What Blood Tests Should You Get at Your Annual Physical? A Doctor's Guide

Not sure which blood tests belong in a yearly checkup? See the common panels, what each one looks for, and how your age and history change the list.

Annual Physical Bloodwork Preventive Care Diagnostic Testing

Medically reviewed by Dr. Karl E. Latortue, MD3 min read

Illustration of a blood collection tube rack, a droplet and a clipboard checklist

Introduction

Many people assume a yearly physical automatically includes a full set of blood tests. In reality, the right list depends on your age, symptoms, family history, medications and past results. There is no single menu that fits everyone.

This guide covers the blood tests most commonly discussed at an annual physical, what each one looks for, and the questions to ask your clinician so you leave with a plan that fits you. For help reading your numbers afterward, see our patient's guide to understanding bloodwork results.

The Tests Most Often Discussed

Test	What it looks at	Why it matters
Complete blood count (CBC)	Red cells, white cells, hemoglobin, platelets	Can point to anemia, infection or other blood conditions
Basic or comprehensive metabolic panel	Blood sugar, kidney function, electrolytes, and (comprehensive) liver enzymes	Gives a broad snapshot of organ function and hydration
Lipid panel	Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides	Helps estimate heart and blood vessel risk
Hemoglobin A1c or fasting glucose	Average or current blood sugar	Screens for prediabetes and diabetes
Thyroid test (TSH)	Thyroid hormone signal	Usually ordered when symptoms or risk factors suggest a thyroid problem

Some tests are routine for many adults; others are ordered only when there is a reason. Ask which ones your clinician recommends for you and why.

Tests That Depend on Your Situation

Vitamin D, B12 or iron studies, when symptoms, diet or health conditions suggest a deficiency
Kidney or liver follow-up tests if a screening result was abnormal or you take medicines that affect those organs
One-time screening for hepatitis C and HIV, which many adults are advised to have at least once
PSA discussion for men, which is a shared decision rather than an automatic test
Pregnancy-related or hormone tests when relevant to your symptoms or plans

Screening guidance changes over time. You can see what applies to you on MyHealthfinder's screening tests page and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations.

Do You Need to Fast?

Some tests, such as a fasting glucose, may need a fast of several hours. Many lipid panels can now be done without fasting, but practices differ. Ask when you book. Our guide to fasting before bloodwork explains what is usually allowed, and our post on blood work and lab tests in Brooklyn covers practical preparation.

How to Get the Most From the Visit

Bring a list of your medications, vitamins, and supplements.
Share your family history of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and thyroid problems.
Mention symptoms such as fatigue, weight change, thirst, or poor sleep, even if they seem minor.
Ask which tests are being ordered and what each is meant to find.
Ask how and when you will receive results, and what happens if a number is outside the usual range.

KEL Healthcare lists preventive care and diagnostic testing among its services. Not every test is performed at every location, so ask your clinic which ones are available. If it has been a while since a full evaluation, a comprehensive health assessment is another option to discuss.

What Happens After the Results

A result outside the reference range is not automatically a diagnosis. It may be repeated, explained by a recent illness or medication, or followed by another test. The reverse is also true: a normal result does not replace a conversation about symptoms. Ongoing conditions can be followed through chronic disease management.

Conclusion

The best set of blood tests is the one matched to your age, history and goals. Go in prepared, ask questions and make sure you know what happens next.

To book a checkup, schedule an appointment. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice.