If a person hasn't seen a doctor for a comprehensive checkup for a few years, what should he ask for when he finally sees the doctor? He is 40, seems to be in a good health, but is a smoker (15+years) and in the past was told that his cholesterol was on the high side. Are there any particular tests he should expect to be done?

First of all congratulations on getting him to the doctor, it is a hard decision to make as one gets older simply because some people are afraid of the doctor "finding something wrong".
The basic exam differs with each doctor but they tend to all do Blood pressure checks, weight, height and maybe an O2 saturation test (just a clip on the finger or earlobe-not invasive).  If they have the facilities in the office, simple urinalysis and either a finger stick or venipuncture are performed.  Some doctors write a prescription to take to a lab.  The doctor might order a chest x-ray since he's a smoker and a PFT (Pulmonary Function Test).  Besides the general head to toe check up he will check for (hold on guys) the "turn your head and cough"  examining for hernias, varicose veins and prostate enlargement.  While they're down south sometimes they take a stool sample or may send you home with a card or a cup to place a stool sample on/in and bring it in later.
I hope this helps but understand every doctor has their own way of doing things and some insurances don't pay for in-office testing.  If you have any further questions, you can post them or IM me.  Good Luck!

 


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