When it comes to the “New Year, New Me” approach, diet and fitness are typically at the forefront. According to Dr. Karen T. Greene of Rosa Gynecology, women should remember the most important New Year’s health resolution of all: prioritizing annual gynecological exams and women’s health screenings.
Dr. Greene recently shared that perspective during a live appearance on “Good Day Atlanta,” Fox 5 Atlanta’s acclaimed morning news and lifestyle show. Anchor Alyse Eady spoke with Dr. Greene, who discussed the importance of planning appointments early, the top screenings and exams to prioritize in the new year, the personal health barriers women face, and more.
The Importance of Planning Ahead and Making Appointments
Since most insurance plans reset in January, booking early appointments helps patients plan healthcare spending over the year. Preventative visits are often fully covered, so getting them done at the beginning of the year keeps you from rushing to use benefits later. Having a head start on scheduling appointments can mean more available appointment times and less waiting for specialty screenings. And early action can translate into catching a health concern early, which often leads to easier treatment and better prognoses.
Screenings Women Should Prioritize in 2026
Again, staying on top of annual gynecologic exams and screenings allows women to be preventative instead of reactive, sometimes identifying concerns before symptoms even appear. Scheduling a gynecologic wellness visit gives women the opportunity to check off their most essential screenings in one swoop. This includes cervical cancer screenings (Pap and HPV tests) and breast exams, which stay in step with American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) guidelines and American Cancer Society recommendations.
Additionally, Dr. Greene shared how a wellness visit can spark dialogue between the patient and provider regarding any additional screenings needed, reproductive planning, and more.
Obstacles to Women’s Health and How to Overcome Them
Dr. Greene explained the obstacles women face when planning gynecological exams and well visits. Busy schedules, childcare, and discomfort discussing intimate health often lead women to delay appointments.
Instead of procrastinating, relying on online misinformation, or being uncomfortable with women’s health procedures, she suggested leaning on a gynecologist’s professional, judgment-free perspective.
“Go ahead and call your gynecologist, make your appointment, and put it on your calendar,” Dr. Greene said in the interview. “Take care of it early, because when life gets in the way you’re less likely to forget it.”
Let Rosa Gynecology Help You Prioritize Your Annual Exams
At Rosa Gynecology, our providers encourage women to take charge of their health by being the CEOs of their bodies. Let us help you prioritize your annual exams by booking an appointment with a trusted Rosa Gynecology provider. Call 770-487-9604 or schedule an appointment online.
