If you’ve ever thought of your annual check-up as just a box to tick, you might be surprised to learn it’s so much more. And when combined with regular preventive steps, it can be one of the best investments you make in your long-term health.
Cullman Internal Medicine is here to serve North Alabama with the best care possible. We are committed to revolutionizing healthcare from the inside out. We highly encourage all of our patients to take a robust interest in their health and advocate for their needs. Our patient-centered approach to care means that we work with you to help you discern the healthcare decisions for you, however, the ultimate call comes from you.
Wellness Visits: Your First Line of Defense
Wellness visits, often called annual physicals or check-ups, are proactive appointments designed to assess your overall health, even when you feel fine. Think of them as a routine tune-up for your body, much like you would maintain a car to avoid breakdowns later.
At Cullman Internal Medicine our wellness visits look something like this:
- Review your medical history and lifestyle habits
- Check your vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature)
- Assess your weight and body mass index (BMI)
- Order or review recommended screenings (such as cholesterol or blood sugar tests)
- Discuss your mental and emotional well-being
- Recommend vaccines or boosters if needed
So, what is the main goal of a wellness visit? We want to spot health issues early, when they’re easiest to treat or to help you avoid them entirely.
For example, catching high blood pressure before it leads to heart disease, or noticing small changes in blood sugar levels before diabetes develops, can make a huge difference in your future health. Wellness visits are crucial to your health. If you have not done so, please schedule your annual check-up today.
What Is Preventive Care?
While a wellness visit is one form of preventive care, the concept goes much deeper. Preventive care refers to any action taken to detect, reduce, or prevent the onset of disease, injury, or other health conditions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describe it as the “routine healthcare that includes screenings, check-ups, and patient counseling to prevent illnesses, disease, or other health problems.”
Common Examples of Preventive Care:
- Screenings and Tests: Mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies, cholesterol checks, and skin cancer screenings.
- Vaccinations: Flu shots, tetanus boosters, COVID-19 vaccines, shingles shots, and childhood immunizations.
- Lifestyle Counseling: Guidance on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and smoking cessation.
- Routine Blood Work: Checks for cholesterol, blood sugar, thyroid function, vitamin deficiencies, and more.
- Dental and Vision Care: Regular cleanings, eye exams, and glaucoma screenings.
In short, preventive care focuses on staying ahead of potential health issues, rather than waiting until they cause noticeable symptoms. When you schedule your annual wellness visit with us at Innova many of these preventative care services are on the list!
Why Preventive Care Is So Important
- Early Detection Saves Lives
Many serious health problems like cancer, heart disease, or diabetes can develop quietly over time. Preventive care can identify these risks early, when they’re far more treatable. - It’s Often Covered by Insurance
Under the Affordable Care Act, most health insurance plans cover certain preventive services at no cost to you, which means there’s little reason to skip them. - It Saves Money in the Long Run
Preventing disease or catching it early often costs far less than treating advanced illness. - It Improves Quality of Life
Staying on top of your health means you can spend more time doing the things you love without the limitations of preventable illness.
Beyond the Doctor’s Office: Everyday Preventive Care
Preventive care doesn’t only happen at your doctor’s office. You can take charge of your health starting right now. There are changes, swaps, and additions you can weave into your daily life to keep preventive care a way of life. Here’s how to make prevention part of your routine:
- Eat a Balanced Diet
Food is one of your most powerful tools for preventing disease. Focus on:
- Plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains instead of refined carbs
- Lean proteins like fish, poultry, beans, and nuts
- Healthy fats from sources like olive oil, avocado, and nuts
Reducing processed foods, added sugars, and excess sodium can significantly lower your risk for chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
- Stay Physically Active
You don’t need a gym membership to move your body. The American Heart Association recommends aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity (like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (like running) each week or some combination of the two. And do not forget strength work at least twice a week.
Getting physical activity into your daily life does not have to be complicated. Find something you enjoy doing and schedule it into your calendar. There are so many easy ways to get movement in each day.
- Get Enough Sleep
Adults should aim for 7–9 hours per night. Quality sleep boosts immune function, helps regulate hormones, supports mental health, and sets you up for a productive day. Sleep is an often-overlooked puzzle piece in the picture of good health. Don’t skimp on sleep. Make it a priority.
- Manage Stress
Chronic stress can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. Incorporate stress-reducing habits like mindfulness, yoga, journaling, or spending time in nature. The most important thing is to find things that help you address and manage your stress. Whatever they may be, don’t forget to take care of your stress and mental health.
- Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol
Smoking is still one of the leading causes of preventable death. Quitting can dramatically reduce your risk for many diseases. Alcohol, if consumed at all, should be consumed in moderation that’s up to one drink per day for women and up to two for men.
- Stay Current on Vaccinations
Even as an adult, vaccines protect you from illnesses that can be serious or even life-threatening. We can discuss vaccines that can be beneficial for your health with you, and help provide options.
- Practice Safe Habits
General lifestyle safety is something we can all do. Wear your seat belt, apply sunscreen daily, use protective gear for sports, and maintain good hand washing hygiene — small actions that prevent big problems.
Combining Wellness Visits and Daily Habits
Think of your annual wellness visit as your health check-in. Your wellness visit is the time to discuss your progress, ask questions, and adjust your prevention plan. Your daily habits are what keep you on track between visits.
For example:
- If your wellness visit blood work shows high cholesterol, you can work on daily lifestyle changes like improving your diet and getting more exercise.
- You might discover at your annual appointment that you’re due for a certain vaccine, then take steps to get it promptly.
This partnership between professional care and self-care creates the best defense against illness.
Making Preventive Care a Priority
Your annual wellness visit is a cornerstone of good health, but it’s only part of the picture. Preventive care, both at the doctor’s office and in your daily life, helps you stay ahead of illness, detect problems early, and live a healthier, more vibrant life.
By combining regular professional check-ins with consistent, mindful habits, you’re not just reacting to health problems; you are actively shaping your future well-being. Here at Innova, we want you to thrive. We know keeping up with wellness visits and incorporating preventative care into your daily routine can make a huge difference in your life.
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to push health appointments to the bottom of the list, especially if you feel fine. But preventive care is an investment in your future self. The steps you take now can add not just years to your life, but life to your years. Here at Cullman Internal Medicine, our team of providers is here to serve you every step of the way. If you are looking for a compassionate patient-centered internal medicine provider, we are one call away and ready to meet you wherever you are in your health journey.
Bethany is a board-certified family medicine Nurse Practitioner. She grew up in Cullman, watching her father, a physician, and her mother, a nurse, care for patients with both their hearts and hands. She learned from them that not only working hard, but loving and treating patients like family would develop the career that best suited her desire to help others. She has been caring for patients at Cullman Internal Medicine for 25 years. Building long-lasting relationships with her patients is important to her, and she genuinely enjoys being a part of their lives. She strives to provide compassionate, competent medical care which fosters an environment of mutual trust and respect.
Bobi Jo Creel is a board-certified Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ANCC-ACNP) with over 20 years of nursing experience. Born and raised in Cullman County, Alabama, she is deeply committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care to adults and seniors in her local community.
Alicia is from Thomasville, Ga, but practiced in Burlington, Iowa from 2017 until joining Cullman Internal Medicine in 2025. Most of Alicia’s experience is in rural primary healthcare, which is where she learned of her passion for caring for patients with diabetes. From 2023 – 2025, her sole focus was assisting individuals in manage their condition more effectively, with a strong emphasis on long-term health and prevention of complications.
Pam is a lifelong resident of Marshall County and a graduate of Albertville High School, Class of 1976. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1981. Pam began her career in emergency and critical care nursing, serving in both the ER and ICU. When Marshall Medical Center North (MMCN) opened in 1990, she became the Nurse Manager of the ICU.
Stacey Varden is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner who works alongside Dr. Jeremy Stidham in Internal Medicine. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and collectively has over 18 years of nursing experience. Before becoming a Nurse Practitioner, she served as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department at Children’s of Alabama, where she developed a strong foundation in acute and compassionate patient care.
Lorie Jones is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner born & raised in Cullman, Alabama. Her nursing career began in 1997 after earning her Licensed Practical Nursing diploma from Wallace State Community College, followed by an Associate Degree in Nursing in 2000. She gained extensive clinical experience working at both Woodland Medical Center and Cullman Regional Medical Center before advancing her education to become a nurse practitioner.
Mollie Dockery, MSN, FNP-C, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing compassionate, evidence-based care to patients of all ages. With over 14 years of nursing experience and two years in advanced practice, Mollie brings a deep understanding of patient needs, especially in managing chronic conditions and promoting preventive health. Her approach is rooted in empathy, education, and a strong commitment to individualized care.
Kristy is known for providing personalized, expert care in Sleep and Lung Health, where she empowers patients thru education, awareness, supportive listening and compassionate guidance. A Cullman native, Kristy is deeply rooted in our community and shares a sincere
With over 15 years of nursing experience, Nancy Cornell is a dedicated and compassionate Family Nurse Practitioner (NP) committed to providing high-quality care to her patients. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Western Governors University in 2017, she went on to complete her Master’s degree in Nursing in 2022. For two years, Nancy has been a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, applying her expertise in community urgent care to treat a diverse range of health needs.
Clark Still is a Licensed Professional Counselor with Cullman Internal Medicine. Clark is also the founder of New Beginnings Counseling of Cullman. He specializes in Christian-Based Professional Counseling.
Charlie Thornton has spent more than 24 years caring for others in a variety of healthcare roles—including paramedic, registered nurse, and for the past 10 years, nurse practitioner. He began his training at Wallace State Community College, completed his nursing degree at Jacksonville State University, and went on to earn graduate degrees from the University of South Alabama, where he became board certified as both a Family Nurse Practitioner and an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner.
Jeremy Stidham, M.D., is a board-certified internal medicine physician who has been caring for patients in Cullman for more than 15 years. He currently serves as President of Cullman Internal Medicine and the Cullman Physician Alliance, where he works alongside a team of dedicated colleagues to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
Nathan is a highly experienced Nurse Practitioner with a rich background spanning over two decades in healthcare. For the past ten years, Nathan has been a vital part of the CIM team as a Nurse Practitioner, also serving as a hospitalist nurse practitioner when needed. His extensive foundation was built over 19 years as a critical care registered nurse. Nathan is an alumnus of Wallace State Community College (RN), Jacksonville State College (BSN), and UAB (MSN), holding his nurse practitioner certification from the ANCC.
Dr. Benjamin Rogers obtained a degree in Classical Studies from Hillsdale College before attending medical school at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. He then completed an internship and residency in Internal Medicine at Wake Forest University. He joined Cullman Internal Medicine in 2012.
Morgan McHugh, CRNP, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with a special focus on diabetes management. A native of Hartselle, Alabama, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
Dr. Erin Britt is a compassionate physician proudly serving her local community as a hometown provider. Raised in Cullman, Alabama, Dr. Britt graduated from Cullman High School. Her desire to care for others lead to enrollment at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine (ACOM), where she earned her medical degree.
The goal of my practice is to help patients achieve optimal health. Eating a balanced diet, exercising, taking care of our mental health, and achieving quality sleep are all crucial for feeling good and living a healthy, enjoyable life. However, sometimes weight gain and hormone imbalances can get in the way.
Naykala is a Triple Board-Certified physician with over 25yrs of experience, dedicated to delivering comprehensive patient-centered care. Her practice emphasizes a whole-body approach, combining traditional Internal Medicine with advanced training in Obesity Medicine and Medical Acupuncture. She evaluates complex medical conditions with a focus on identifying root causes–especially those contributing to weight gain—and provides thoughtful, integrative treatment plans. Naykala’s 10 years of service in the U.S. Air Force deepened her commitment to non-pharmacologic pain management, and acupuncture has become a meaningful part of how she cares for patients.
Dr Parker grew up in Cullman County and attended West Point High School. His path to medicine was not direct. After high school, He attended Wallace State Community college and received an associates degree in business. Shortly after graduating Brian was married to his wife Karen. Unsure of what to do next he left his job as a butcher for the local Walmart distribution center where he would work for the next 7 years. After reflecting on his goals and desire to help others he decided to pursue medicine.
Dr. Vintson is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician originally from Cullman. She graduated medical school from Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Auburn, AL, and completed residency training at UAB Family Medicine in Huntsville. Dr. Vintson practices medicine seeing the patient as a whole person, understanding there are many components of one’s life that affects overall health and wellness. She loves seeing a variety of patient ages throughout her day and feels this is what makes family medicine and primary care so special. In addition to routine primary care she especially enjoys women’s health and preventative medicine, including Pap smears and menopause care, as well as diabetes management, nutrition, and mental health care. Dr. Vintson loves the Lord and enjoys time on the lake with her family, fishing, hunting, gardening, and podcasts. She has two young children and a loving husband of 12 years.
Dr. Adam Harrison is proud to serve his hometown of Cullman as a dedicated physician. A local from East Elementary through Cullman High, he earned his Biomedical Sciences degree from Auburn University, completed medical school at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and his residency at UAB Huntsville Family Medicine. Drawn by the opportunity to give back to his community, Dr. Harrison chose to build his career at Cullman Internal Medicine.