| Martin's Point Health
Care Preventive Medicine patient brochure |
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(Cover) Routine checkups,
screenings and immunizations: Staying Healthy with Preventive Medicine --------------------------------------------------------------- (Page 2) Your Routine Physical and Screenings Ask anyone who's ever been sick: An ounce of prevention is faster, cheaper and a lot more pleasant than a pound of cure. That's why we encourage everyone to get the routine checkups, preventive screenings and immunizations they need. But surprise! Routine checkups don't always mean an annual exam anymore. Getting a physical exams every year is still recommended for children under 18 and adults over 50. But not for healthy people without symptoms in their 20s, 30s and 40s. A complete yearly physical is simply more than most people need. It's like getting your car detailed, because there's a smudge on the windshield. That's why leading medical organizations like the American College of Physicians, the American Medical Association and the US Public Health Service no longer recommend physicals every year – and why many insurance plans no longer pay for them. Instead, experts now recommend narrowly focused screenings and tests, tailored to your age, sex, physical condition and other risk factors. These have found to be more effective in reducing illness and prolonging life. The back page explains which ones you need and how often. What's the difference? A complete physical is a lengthy, top-to-toe examination. It looks at everything, and includes a thorough medical history of both the patient and their family, and information about individual risk behaviors. Then comes a battery of tests and procedures. A physical exam is extremely thorough. That's why, for most healthy people, they're only recommended every X years. Ask your doctor to be sure. Tests and screenings, on the other hand, are tightly focused on a single health factor. Rather than a floodlight trying to illuminate everything, screenings are like laser beams that focus on a single health factor: your cholesterol, blood pressure or thyroid, for example. Tests like mammograms, Pap smears, colon and prostate screenings allow your provider to concentrate on those things most likely to cause you problems. This saves time and money, and conserves limited healthcare resources. When you go Healthy people stay that way by being actively involved in the state of their health. When you have a medical appointment, look at it as an opportunity to consult with an expert and get answers to your questions. There's no reason to be embarrassed or intimidated. In many ways, it's like a visit with a lawyer, accountant or investment advisor. Jot down your questions, concerns and thoughts ahead of time, so you don't forget. Also remember to bring along your insurance card, family history, immunization records. If you're a new patient, don’t forget information about your previous healthcare providers. --------------------------------------------------------------- (Page 3) Let's Talk About… Diet and exercise A healthier lifestyle often begins with a visit to your doctor. If you're trying to lose weight or manage a particular condition, talk to your healthcare provider. In addition to helpful suggestions and encouragement, he or she may recommend that you visit a nutritionist or some other specialist. Embarking on an exercise program? That's usually a great idea, but it's wise to consult with your provider before you begin – and again later, during scheduled checkups. You want to be sure you're not exercising too much or too little. Personal Issues Stress, anxiety and other negative emotions can cause painful physical symptoms, illness and depression. Diet and exercise frequently help. So do meditation and relaxation techniques. But in some cases, medication may be the best solution. Ask your provider. Domestic violence, alcohol, drugs, tobacco and other kinds of substance abuse can disrupt lives, causing terrible pain and heartache. But you don't have to face them alone. Remember: You can speak frankly and in complete confidence with your healthcare provider about these and any other issues that might be troubling you. We can also provide anonymous, toll-free support numbers you can call. Don't simply ignore your troubles and hope they go away. They won't. Risk factors Obesity, high cholesterol, blood pressure, stress, your personal and family medical history, sexual activity, workplace hazards – all of these can have a profound impact on your health and well-being. So can heredity and our environment. Each of us has different risk factors, so it's important to discuss them openly with your provider. Your answers can help develop more specific prevention guidelines. Changing your behavior can reduce risk and significantly improve your health. Your family history There's no crystal ball, of course. But the health of your parents, grandparents and siblings can be a helpful barometer for your own future fitness. At the very least, it gives us clues about things to watch for. Your medical provider may order tests and screenings to monitor the same potential threats to your health. Remember, times – and the medical profession – have changed dramatically since your parents were your age. New prevention and treatment options mean you have a good chance of avoiding those same illnesses. # # #
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