"As for getting a pap once every 2 years, that was in vogue for a very short time and is medically incorrect."

Actually in our clinic, an every-other-year annual is acceptable for women who have a negative Pap history. We allow them to come yearly for annuals if that is their preference.

Unless a women is 21+ or has been sexually active for 3 or more years, we do not require a regular physical exam but would instead take an extensive personal and family history. I am always surprised how many family health care providers insist on teens getting Paps even on young women not yet sexually active (or having gyn complaints).

If a physician required me to return twice a year, I would be sure I did not need to be on a "Pap follow" which is basically when a women has a recent abnormal Pap. Standards for the resulting care differ. We are required by law to be very pro-active in encouraging any needed follow-up care.

It has also become vogue for some physicians to charge monthly retainer fees. If you decide to change your health care provider, make sure you get records sent to your new provider for continuity of care. Good to always ask questions.