By: Dr. Valerie Norton, Internal Medicine Physician and Hospitalist at MRHC
Many patients often visit their doctor only when they are feeling ill, have an injury or an acute change in their health. However, it is very important to maintain a regular annual visit including full physical examination and appropriate labs as well as preventative measures such as vaccinations and cancer screenings and other advice. Your doctor provides preventive services to help you avoid health problems or to identify them early. In many cases, problems that are found early are more likely to respond to treatment. Your doctor will recommend the services that are appropriate for you based on your age, sex, and medical and family history.
Because your risk for health problems increases as you age, these preventative services are important for everyone but especially for older adults. By preventing problems, or identifying them at an early stage, you are more likely to live a longer and healthier life. It is important to ask your doctor about any necessary testing that you may need. Influenza vaccination, pneumococcal vaccination, breast cancer, colon cancer, diabetes, cholesterol and osteoporosis are important to consider and discuss with your doctor yearly.
MRHC offers a variety of primary care providers to help you navigate many of these issues. If you would like to contact one of our providers, please visit www.mrhc.org for more information.
