Why do doctors measure your height and weight each time you go in?

Question

Maybe it's just my cynical side coming through, but I think there are only two logical answers:
1) insurance companies make them do this to profile us so they can adjust premiums
2) so the doctors can charge the insurance companies for these "services" rendered

Why else would they do it? I go in for the flu, they measure my height and weight. I have a stomach ache, first thing they do is measure my height and weight. They never use the results they obtain in their diagnosis, so why bother?

Answer 1

If your weight or height has changed significantly since your last visit, it's something your doctor needs to know. The best way to know that is to take an accurate measurement, especially when it comes to weight. If there HAS been a significant change of either measurement, it can provide your doctor with clues, just in case the apparent cause of your ailment isn't the correct one.

Answer 2

why do they listen to your heart, take your pulse, check your temp when you go in for back pain? - it's part of a "complete physical" and by doing so, they are 1. protecting themself from liability in case you drop dead of a heart attack before you get home-- they can say yeah, I saw him, his heart rate was fine it was in the 60's and his bp was 120/65, normal temp at 97.7. That is why-- the height and weight goes along with the physical--relate this to your car care- why do they check the fluid in your windshield wipers, or ask if you need new ones when you go to get the oil change, and don't forget they always want to change the air filter and check the air in your tires and check the threads on the tires...same thing.....

Answer 3

They want to make sure your symptoms aren't related to height and weight, mostly weight if you are an adult since your height does not usually change.

Lots of medical disorders are related to being overweight or underweight.