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Only 71% of young adults have a regular primary care physician, and less than half of them passed the examination last year
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Failing to provide first aid can delay detection of health problems
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Young adults are more likely to seek emergency care for dysfunctional issues
MONDAY, June 29, 2026 (Health Day News) – Many young adults may be missing out on important things preventive health screenings, according to a national survey.
A survey of more than 1,000 US adults conducted by Ohio State University in Columbus found that only 71% of people aged 18 to 29 have a regular doctor, compared to 97% of adults 65 and older.
Even among young adults who do have a doctor, less than half—just 47 percent—had a checkup in the past year.
Skipping routine visits could mean missing out on recommended screenings, vaccinations and early warning signs for conditions like high blood pressurehigh cholesterol and diabetes.
Dr. Zachary BittingerA family medicine physician at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center said having a primary care physician is especially important when you’re young.
“We’re looking at five years, 10 years and 20 years, because ideally that’s how long you see your primary care doctor,” he said. “This kind of relationship means that at every stage of life, from college to raising children to retirement, you get advice that will keep you safe.”
The study also found that young adults are more likely to go to the emergency room for health problems. Overall, 36% said they would go to an urgent care clinic first, while 68% of adults said they would contact their regular doctor.
“My young, healthy patients may be the picture of health, but they don’t know they’re behind on their tetanus vaccine because it’s been 10 years,” Bittinger said. “They may not know it’s time for their first Pap test. There are a lot of things that we see in primary care that come a long way.”
More information
US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services more about the importance of first aid.
SOURCE: Health Day TVJune 29, 2026
What does this mean for you?
Young adults may feel healthy, but skipping regular checkups can mean missing out on vaccines, screenings, and early signs of health problems that are easier to detect and treat early.
