Proactive Health for Busy Executives: My Experience with Mayo Clinic's Executive Health Program

After countless raving reviews from friends, I finally signed up for the Executive Annual Health Exam at Mayo Clinic Executive Health in Rochester, MN. I've always been a strong advocate for a proactive approach to health, but after turning 47 a couple of months ago, I felt it was time for a more comprehensive health checkup.

Short version: I rate the experience 10 out of 10.

Here are the reasons why I highly recommend this program for busy executives and entrepreneurs:

? Time-saving – The appointments are scheduled in a logical, efficient way. All tests take place within the same building, so I went from one floor to another, saving significant time compared to my past experiences of running between specialists across different parts of the city. All appointments were on time, and I was even seen early in a few instances (which was a refreshing change!).

? Top specialists and advanced equipment – Everything is under one roof. Being a Mayo Clinic patient gave me complete confidence in their team of highly skilled professionals and state-of-the-art medical technology.

? Real-time updates – Mayo Clinic has a fantastic app where all my appointments, test results, and messages were posted. I received notifications as soon as new test results were available. The "patient-friendly" explanations of the test results were particularly useful.

? Comprehensive approach – Specialists from different departments work together to provide a well-rounded perspective on your health.

? Consolidated paperwork and records – This alone saves so much time and hassle. Having everything in one place makes follow-ups and continuity of care so much easier.

? Quick turnaround on tests – All but one test (Galleri) were completed while I was still at Mayo, allowing my primary doctor to analyze the results and schedule any necessary follow-ups right away. If additional tests or appointments were needed, they were quickly scheduled based on the initial test results.

Here are some tips and observations to help you make the most of your experience:

Getting into the program: The Executive Health Program is open to executives and their spouses. After submitting your application, you'll be contacted for an interview to determine your eligibility. The wait time for the first appointment is typically 6+ months, so plan accordingly.

Scheduling your first visit: You’ll be asked to set aside three days at the Mayo Clinic to accommodate all tests and appointments. Early-week appointments tend to book up faster. Keep in mind, there is a cancellation/change fee if done less than 30 days in advance.

Preparation: There will be several phone interviews and paperwork to complete before your visit. I recommend being as thorough as possible in your responses to ensure all necessary appointments are scheduled. Important: Make sure to upload and bring any previous test results so doctors can make comparisons (ladies, remember your mammogram results!). Also, don’t forget your current eyeglasses for the eye test.

Schedules and Appointments: Your appointment schedule will be uploaded to the patient portal on both the website and the Mayo Clinic app. Downloading the app is the best way to stay organized and informed.

My first appointment was with my primary doctor, and we had an in-depth conversation about my family health history, diet, exercise routine, and sleep habits. I was impressed by the doctor's expertise, attention to detail, and clear communication.

Getting there: I drove from Chicago, which took about 5.5 hours. The nearest airport is Rochester International (RST), located about 15 minutes from the clinic.

Where to stay: I stayed at the Hotel Indigo and really enjoyed the experience. Several hotels are connected to the Mayo Clinic via the Skyway (second-floor walkways) and the Subway (underground walkways). These connections make getting around easy, especially during cold Minnesota winters. Both the Skyway and Subway are filled with coffee shops, restaurants, massage spas, and other conveniences.

What to bring and wear: Wear comfortable clothes for easy access during tests. My VO2 max test required running on a treadmill while wearing a mask. I’m glad I brought running shoes and workout clothes—it was a workout!

There may be some downtime between appointments, so I found it helpful to bring my laptop to stay productive.

Where to eat: The Executive Lounge, located on the 5th floor of the Mayo Building, is open to Executive Health Program participants. Think of it as an upscale airline lounge (minus the alcohol) with hot meals, healthy snacks, and great coffee available throughout the day.

If you prefer to explore, there are plenty of dining options. I dined at Mill Valley Kitchen, which was both healthy and delicious. For coffee, I recommend Steam Café and Bravo Espresso.

Costs: As of 2024, the fee for the Executive Program was $1,425 (not covered by insurance). All other tests and doctor appointments are billed to insurance and covered depending on your plan. Mayo Clinic is excellent about providing billing estimates through the app and website.

In conclusion, it's never too early to take a proactive approach to our wellness, fitness, and health. Be well!