.png)
Get the Most From Primary Care: So Much More Than You Expect!
PREVENTIVE MEDICINE
When it comes to your health, the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” still rings true. It’s up to you and your primary care team to aim to prevent illness and injury whenever possible. This is done through preventive measures like adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle, having routine physicals and screenings, and avoiding risk factors for disease. Preventive care starts when you make that first appointment with a primary care provider and begin building a life-long partner in your health journey.
WHAT’S A HEALTH HISTORY?
Your primary care journey should always start with a solid foundation made up of your unique health history. This includes basic information such as your age, sex, and current and past health concerns. You’ll also be asked about your family’s health history, and topics like exercise, sleep patterns, work environment, and more.
This information becomes part of your confidential electronic health record (EHR), which your primary care provider can use to identify risk factors, detect potential health concerns early, and make informed decisions about your care.
A health history helps track personal and family health patterns and can indicate when preventive measures, such as screenings and vaccinations, are recommended.
SCREENINGS – WHAT ARE THEY?
Screening tests can help catch health concerns early, sometimes before symptoms appear. Screening results can also help determine whether additional testing or follow-up care is needed.
TYPES OF SCREENINGS
A1C – measures average blood sugar levels over two-to-three months.
Blood glucose testing – Screens for diabetes or prediabetes.
Blood pressure check – To detect hypertension, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
Body mass index (BMI) – Assesses weight status and related health risks.
Bone density test – For osteoporosis risk, especially in postmenopausal women or those with risk factors.
Cancer screenings (based on age and gender).
Cholesterol screening – Measures LDL (“bad”) and HDL (“good”) cholesterol to assess heart disease risk.
Eye exams – Detect vision problems and eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration.
Immunizations – Review and update vaccines (flu, tetanus, COVID-19, etc.).
Mental health screening – For depression, anxiety, or other conditions.
Skin checks – Look for early signs of skin cancer.
STI screening – For sexually transmitted infections, often based on sexual activity and risk.
Vitamin D and other blood tests – May check for deficiencies or organ function (liver, kidney).
UPMC Primary Care is here for you when you are sick or injured, and when you are healthy. Preventive care and routine screenings can help guard your health now while reducing the risk of serious illness later.
Looking for a new primary care provider? Learn more about UPMC Primary care at UPMC.com/PrimaryCare
SOURCES:
Comments