The Right Step
Scott & White encourages individuals and communities
in making health-affirming decisions
When patients work closely with their primary care physician, they’re often able to
intervene early enough to prevent some diseases, such as heart disease or diabetes.
Regular health screenings and lifestyle changes are two of the most important things
a person can do to stay well. A Scott & White physician is empowering people—in her
medical practice and in the community—to protect and improve their health.
“M
edication is important when you
need it, but first and foremost,
prevention is the priority,” says
Lianne Marks, MD, PhD, an internist at
Scott & White Healthcare - Round Rock.
“We try to help people determine how they
can do things to facilitate their own health,
in a way that works best for them.”
If she could offer only one piece of
advice when it comes to caring for one’s
health, Dr. Marks says, it would be this:
“Fitness is the priority. Everything else
follows from that, and it’s all interrelated.
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THE CATALYST Fall 09 | sw.org
Exercise generates a cascade of secondary
effects, resulting in a decreased risk of
developing a chronic disease and improved
short- and long-term brain function.”
In addition to the direct patient care
she provides, Dr. Marks helps her patients
tap available community assistance. “We
try to direct them to local resources, right
here in Williamson County. For example,
the YMCA Silver Sneakers program caters
to seniors, customizing programs to their
abilities so everyone can participate. Every
population has resources, and we can help
“Fitness is the
priority. Everything
else follows from
that, and it’s all
interrelated.”
— Dr. Marks
sw.org | Fall 09 THE CATALYST
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