I think the value of a visit depends on the vet somewhat. I believe that having fecals done yearly is a good idea, they can get internal parasites from food items. I know that my vet doesn't like to see new animals that are sick she wants to have a visit healthy for a base line. I guess that makes sense (and is a income maker too...).
I have learned that some internal parasites can survive longer than I expected frozen. (tape worm eggs need -7ºC for 36 hours but I was told 72 is better.) My freezer wasn't even at -7 anyway. Fecals are valuable but as stated you can collect and send them out yourself most vets in my area do they are not done in house.
My vet is about $110 a visit but that is a fecal included she is quite careful so it didn't feel like a waste of money to me. They will also do an IBD test as well if requested but that is quite expensive. New information is starting to make this test something to consider as well.
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