The periodic health examination in college students revisited.

The periodic health examination is a group of tasks carried out by physicians and nurses at regular intervals, but not always yearly, to determine either the risk of subsequent disease or to identify disease in its early, asymptomatic state. The Guide to Clinical Preventive Services, published in 1989 by the United States Preventive Services Task Force, sets common American standards for these procedures. The guide lists those preventive activities recommended for persons aged 19-39 years. Every patient encounter in our student health services should be considered an opportunity for preventive activities. This article offers a simple check list for office use.