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There are countless reasons why people put off annual wellness visits. Some believe they are healthy enough to skip. Others struggle to make time in their busy schedules for self-care. Concerns about cost, language barriers and general health care anxiety can also play a role. Whatever the reasons, the Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 20% of adults do not see a primary care physician (PCP) for a wellness visit each year. This July, Harbin Clinic challenges Rome and the surrounding areas to prioritize their health.
Health Maintenance Priorities
One of the best ways to stay on top of wellness goals is to measure and understand the core four health metrics:
- Blood pressure: The force of one’s blood pushing against the walls of the arteries.
- Blood sugar: Also known as blood glucose, this refers to the amount of glucose in the blood.
- Cholesterol levels: The term for levels of a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally. Too much in the blood can combine with other substances and stick to the walls of arteries.
- Healthy weight: The term for maintaining a body weight appropriate for height and overall health.
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- Dr. Donna Gregory, Harbin Clinic Cartersville Family Medicine
Although some health stats can be measured at home, annual wellness visits are valuable because, along with regular consultations and lab work, physicians can share insights about a patient’s core four metrics and how they align with personal health goals and medical needs.
Harbin Clinic physicians are also prepared to help patients monitor their progress, applying comprehensive knowledge of a patient’s health and knowing when to collaborate or refer to other specialties if necessary. For example, a PCP will know when to encourage a patient to see a physical therapist for mobility issues or an endocrinologist for diabetes or glucose management.
Why Health Maintenance Matters
Left to their own devices, many adults forget to monitor their core health metrics with all the other responsibilities they juggle, and they may not identify problems before it is too late. Others are unaware of how these metrics impact overall health, and understanding them can motivate people to seek guidance from a provider. Top of FormBottom of Form
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, increases stress on the heart and blood vessels. Over time, those with high blood pressure are at increased risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and other complications. Seeing a PCP may be the first time someone learns they have high blood pressure since it often has few, if any, symptoms. Learning to manage it with a doctor’s help could save a life.
Similarly, having stable blood sugar levels is vital because high or low blood sugar levels can create health concerns. High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, may lead to diabetes and other complications such as nerve damage, kidney damage, cardiovascular disease and vision problems. On the other hand, low blood sugar levels, or hypoglycemia, can cause symptoms like dizziness, confusion, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness. With lab work and a physician’s help, patients can know their blood sugar levels and learn the best strategies for maintaining a healthy balance.
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- Dr. Lisa Sward, Harbin Clinic Cartersville Family Medicine
Keeping an eye on cholesterol levels is another critical metric because cholesterol causes plaque buildup in the arteries, narrowing the blood vessels and restricting blood flow, ultimately leading to heart attacks and strokes.
Maintaining a healthy weight is also important for overall well-being. Although someone may know how much they weigh, they might not have a clear understanding of whether their weight is at a healthy level. Both being underweight or overweight can negatively impact quality of life. At Harbin Clinic, physicians take a comprehensive approach to understanding patients’ goals and lifestyles to identify the right strategies and programs that support a fulfilling life.
Other Self-Improvement Goals
Beyond making an appointment with a PCP, patients can impact their core four health metrics by incorporating these goals into their daily routines.
- Get moving: Aim for at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise every day.
- Eat heart smart: Focus on foods rich in potassium and fiber, while cutting back on sodium to less than 1,500 mg per day.
- Drink plenty of water: While adding water, limit alcoholic drinks to one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men.
- Quit smoking: A PCP can be an excellent advocate and has access to supportive tobacco cessation programming.
- Chill: Identify ways to decrease stress while increasing opportunities for meditation or yoga for better relaxation.
Check health maintenance off your bucket list this summer by incorporating these habits, supported by the guidance and care of Harbin Clinic. Take the challenge and make proactive steps toward better health and well-being. To find a primary care physician near you, visit harbinclinic.com.
