Why Is Finding A Primary Care Physician So Important?
April Newsletter
Why Is Finding A Primary Care Physician So Important?
Even if you’ve completed a biometric screening through your employer, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss your results. You might be tempted to skip an annual physical if you aren’t feeling sick, but there are several reasons why taking the time to meet with your doctor on an annual basis will keep you in good health:
Your PCP has a full picture of your health history: One of the benefits of finding a primary care physician is that you will receive routine medical care in one place. When a doctor is familiar with your medical history and family health history, they can suggest preventative screenings, recommend treatment options, monitor health progress, and answer your questions.
Your PCP can help you stay up-to-date on vaccines: Immunizations against illnesses such as the flu can help you and those around you stay healthy. When you visit your doctor, they’ll let you know if you’re due for any routine vaccinations and assess the best vaccine options based on your specific needs.
Your PCP can monitor your overall health status: From routine blood tests to wellness checks, visiting your doctor at least once a year can allow you to monitor your health and ensure disease is treated in its earliest stage.
Watch this video from Mayo Clinic for tips on having a productive visit with your primary care physician.
Stress Less With These Positive Practices
Whether you’re dealing with a full plate at work, a strained relationship, or social burnout, stressful situations are never easy. Stress is a normal part of life, but it doesn’t have to overtake your day to day. April is Stress Awareness Month, promoting healthy ways to cope with stress when life feels overwhelming:
Get enough sleep: A solid sleep schedule is one of the best things you can do to tame stress levels. The average adult requires at least seven hours of sleep to function their best throughout the day.
Be mindful of exercise and diet: It’s no surprise that routine healthy habits have a positive impact on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Eating well and staying active will boost your mood and help you feel better overall.
Avoid unhealthy habits: Stress eating or binge drinking do far more harm than good… in fact, they actually increase stress levels!
Talk about it: One of the worst things you can do in a stressful situation is bottle up your feelings. Consider talking to a friend, family member, or counselor who can support you during a challenging season. You might find talking about stress helps!