The pandemic has driven a need to adapt to so many new challenges — from learning new ways to get needed supplies to finding new methods to engage, educate, and entertain one another. Certainly not least among these new obstacles are the limitations surrounding how to access and continue the preventive care you need to maintain your health.
The Importance of Preventive Care
In some ways, preventive care has, itself, become a victim of the pandemic. Health concerns that would have been immediately addressed with a doctor before COVID-19 are suddenly being scrutinized as to whether or not they are “worth the risk.” And, during the worst of the outbreak, the clinicians who would have treated these concerns had limited options or were only seeing emergency/non-routine cases.
It is critically important to understand that this does not mean your health should be put on hold. In many cases, the benefits of maintaining your health can outweigh your risk or likelihood of obtaining COVID-19. We’ve said it before on this blog platform many times…disease is the real enemy.
Having a Primary Care Physician Is Key
Preventive healthcare is the most important step you can take to manage your health. Many of the top risk factors leading to illness and premature death are preventable. And a critical part of preventive care is having a primary care physician, if at all possible.
Here is why it is recommended:
Create Goals Specific to You
Your primary care doctor will recommend preventive care steps and goals depending on your overall health, gender, and age.
Many of these steps are much the same for everyone. For example: Your doctor will schedule the proper vaccinations for you and your children at the appropriate age.
Schedule Screenings at the Right Time
For adults, screenings that consider your family history, age, and gender will help your doctor spot problems. Early detection often means a better outcome for you and lower healthcare costs.
Colon cancer, heart disease, and other medical problems in close relatives may alter the timing of screening tests. Your doctor will know if you need those screening tests earlier than the general population.
Help Improve Your Quality of Life
Even if you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or other medical problems, there are steps your primary care doctor can recommend that may reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Don’t Have a Primary Care Physician? No Problem!
When you’re fighting an enemy like disease, you need to bring out all the ammunition you can. Preventive care and having a primary care physician are keys!
If you’re in need of a primary care physician but aren’t sure where to find one or where even to start, check out our partner Alight’s site. You’ll find great resources there.
Additionally, you can always reach out directly to us and we can help!
