Comprehensive Health Assessments

The Duke Executive Comprehensive Health Assessment includes all the tests and procedures found at other premiere providers. But we believe that this is just the first step to keeping you healthy and active. In the same day, we incorporate your test results in a personalized nutrition, fitness, and stress management assessment, all designed to provide you with the information and tools necessary to promote a healthy lifestyle.

Remember, we offer a wide selection of Additional Options to allow you to tailor your experience at Duke Executive Health.

The following are standard in the Comprehensive Health Assessment (click a link to learn more):

• A comprehensive medical history and physical exam
• Comprehensive lab assessments
• Exercise tolerance test (ETT)
• Body fat assessment by DexaScan
• Nutrition Consultation with a Registered Dietitian
• Fitness Consultation with an Fitness Specialist
  
• Stress management evaluation with a Behavior Health Clinician
  
• Risk Assessment Tool - evaluates your five-year risk of coronary artery disease, stroke, and diabetes
• Exit interview with Executive Health Program Physician
• Referrals to other Duke Center for Living or University Health Programs
• Ongoing follow-up with Health Coach
  
• Online (Web) access to your personalized health plan, and complete Duke Executive Health medical records

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Physical examination

A thorough head-to-toe physical exam, which includes a review of your medical history, a complete physical exam, priority consultations with Duke specialists (additional fee) if needed, and a summary conference with your Duke Executive Health Physician. You will receive a written summary of your results.

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Comprehensive lab assessments

Complete blood analysis, including cholesterol profile, and urinalysis. The following diagnostic tests are included (others may be added, as determined by your Duke Executive Health Physician):

• Urinalysis - To detect kidney disease, prostate problems, and infection
• ABC with Differential - To detect anemia, blood diseases, and infection
• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Chemistry - Complete chemistry panel to detect kidney disease, diabetes, and liver disease
• Lipid Panel - Complete profile of blood cholesterol levels
• Thyroid Stimulating Hormone - To detect an under- or overactive thyroid
• C-Reactive Protein - To detect an inflammatory marker that may signify risk for coronary artery disease
• Ferritin - A blood test to determine how much iron is in your body.
• Hepatitis C Virus Antigen - To determine the presence of antibodies to the Hepatitis C virus to assist in determining if you may have had exposure to Hepatitis C.
  
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) - To detect prostate cancer or prostate enlargement. For males over the age of 40.
• Chest X-ray - To screen for lung cancer, infection, and other lung diseases
• EKG - To screen for a number of potential problems, including irregular heart rhythms, damage to the heart muscle, enlargement of the heart's chambers, mineral imbalances in the blood, and detection of a heart attack

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Body fat assessment by DexaScan

Higher levels of body fat are associated with numerous health risks, including diabetes, heart disease, and higher cholesterol levels. Measurements are taken to estimate your current overall body fat. BMI (body mass index) is calculated to further define a suggested healthy weight.

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Exercise tolerance test (ETT)

Cardiac problems are the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Also known as a stress test, this diagnostic tool is used to uncover cardiac problems (such as coronary blockage and abnormal heart rhythms) and to screen fitness level before starting an exercise program.

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Nutrition Consultation with a Registered Dietitian

You will review the three-day food journal you completed prior to your appointment. This includes:

• Comparative analysis to scientifically-based nutrition recommendations, tailored to your individual needs
• Review of supplements
• Review of alcohol intake history

Taking into account your overall assessment, medical history, and personal goals, the dietitian will help you identify ways to improve your dietary patterns to achieve optimal health and disease prevention.

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Fitness Consultation with a Fitness Specialist

A fitness specialist will create a detailed exercise perscription after discussing your goals, medical considerations, and lifestyle.  Your customized plan will incorporate a balanced program of cardiovascular, strength, and flexibilty training.

 

If you are currently active and have been doing the same exercise program for more than three months, it is beneficial to have your program reviewed to ensure progress and optimal wellness.

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Stress management evaluation with a Behavior Health Clinician

Overwhelming levels of stress can lead to increased physical health risks. This evaluation screens for those risk factors shown to lead to heart disease and early death from all causes:

• Perceived stress
• Anger, hostility, and cynicism
• Depression and anxiety
• Social support

The health psychologist will provide personalized recommendations based on your psychological profile, medical history, and goals. Follow-up appointments, recommendations, or referrals will be given, if needed.

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Exit interview with Physician

At the end of your visit, you will have a summary consultation with your Duke Executive Health Physician. Also:

• You leave with the results of your labs,your consultations and your physical exam and health recommendations.
• You can share this information immediately with your primary care physician and review your results periodically to keep you on track with your goals.
• You will also be able to view your electronic medical record account  online with all of your results summarized.
• You will be encouraged to return yearly for a less extensive exam with Executive Health to follow up on your health goals.
  

During your exit interview, the physician remains available for additional advice and counseling.

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Referrals to other Duke Center for Living or Duke University Health Programs

As needed or requested, we will provide referrals to other Duke specialists or centers. These visits are not included in the basic Comprehensive Health Assessment package.

These referrals can address a broad range of health and wellness issues; for example:

• Preventive Cardiology
• Duke Center for Integrative Medicine
• Additional Nutrition Classes
• Mindful Eating
• Behavioral Medicine for continuing Stress Management
• Women's Health Specialties
• Health and Wellness Services
• Personal training
• Access to the Duke Diet & Fitness Center and additional Weight Management Programs
• Smoking Cessation