We understand that many changes have occurred in the past few months, with recommendations that you limit activity to essential needs like getting groceries and picking up prescriptions. Maintaining your health is always essential, and we are here to provide care during these uncertain times. If you had an annual check-up that was cancelled during the early stages of the pandemic, now is the time to reschedule that appointment!
Cancelling and rescheduling appointments at the onset of COVID-19 was necessary for healthcare providers to protect patients and implement new safeguards, including telehealth services. However, delaying routine healthcare visits can lead to serious future health problems, such as chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. When you stay up to date on annual checkups, immunizations, and health screenings, you may be able to prevent certain diseases or allow your doctor to diagnose them in the early stages, when they are easier to treat.
Additionally, having a healthy immune system can help protect you from disease – something we are all thinking about right now. Your family medicine doctor can help you create habits that will support a healthy immune system, such as:
- Quitting smoking/tobacco products
- Improving the amount and quality of sleep you get
- Reducing the amount of alcohol you drink
- Managing stress and anxiety
- Adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet
- Starting an exercise program
This is why it’s so important to continue receiving care right now, whether that’s through a face-to-face visit or via telehealth technology from the comfort of home. Both in-person and telehealth visits are available for all of our services, and we’re taking various measures to keep you safe when you come to the office.
To schedule an appointment, please call your preferred PHN location. As always, if you are experiencing a medical emergency, never delay care – call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.