healthspin primary care doctors have impact on health
Farhan Siddiqui , MD
by Farhan Siddiqui , MD
You work 40-plus hours a week , spend weekends at the soccer field with your children and like to get in a round of golf every now and then . So , you don ’ t have time to be sick , right ?
Most of us are on the go 24 / 7 , and just can ’ t spare the hours or days it takes to rest and recuperate . All adults over the age of 18 should be screened and examined regularly . But , men are less likely to stick to this guideline and make health visits a priority .
According to the American Heart Association , wanting to save time and finances are among the top 10 excuses that men use to avoid going to the doctor .
Being proactive about your health can help you live longer and improve your quality of life . Some conditions , like heart disease and testicular and prostate cancers can have better outcomes if they ’ re caught early .
And , the best path to prevention is to develop a partnership with a primary care provider ( PCP ) who will offer regular well visits , check-ups , immunizations and preventive screenings . PCPs treat common medical problems and teach how to make healthy lifestyle choices . If you need specialized care for a specific health concern , primary care doctors can connect you with a specialist .
A PCP is often a physician , but nurse practitioners and physician assistants can also provide primary care services .
Why Are Well Visits Important ?
A well visit , defined as a scheduled appointment with your health care provider when you are not sick , helps to prevent health problems and is the perfect chance for you to talk with your provider . During this appointment , your overall health will be checked and you may receive recommended tests or immunizations .
Getting the right health services and screenings for your age , family history and lifestyle choices helps your chances for living a longer , healthier life . Your PCP will work with you to develop a health care strategy that works best for you .
Make the most of every moment in 2018 by staying well . The New Year is a great time to visit your PCP or if you don ’ t have one , schedule an appointment to establish a relationship . Do it today . You don ’ t want to miss out on anything that the New Year has to offer !
For a list of North Oaks Physician Group primary care providers , visit www . northoaks . org / wellvisit . To schedule an appointment , call ( 985 ) 230-APPT [ 2778 ] in Hammond or 1 ( 844 ) APPT-NOW [ 277- 8669 ] in Livingston . Our providers accept most major insurance plans .
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