No one loves physicals. The battery of tests, poking and prodding, with routine check-ups are low on our bucket list. We therefore approached last month’s visit to the cardiologist with trepidation. Things got interesting when he spotted on the MRI what appeared to be a widening of the aorta: “Aneurysm.”

A hasty Google search uncovered scary stories of ruptured arteries and sudden death. But we had grown to respect our doctor’s measured, thorough routine over the years. “Sometimes CT scans give us a better view,” he said. “Let’s see what that shows.” Turns out the scan recorded a narrower diameter, below the worrisome range. “We’ll just keep an eye on it.”

Our medical moment recalled the importance of how experienced private credit managers keep watchful eyes on portfolio companies. Their practices aren’t flashy but rely on methodical monitoring and reporting beginning with some version of credit surveillance reports (CSRs).