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A new year is here, and with it comes new resolutions. At the start of
the New Year, people often intend to prioritize their physical wellbeing,
vowing to take better care of their bodies and keep up with their health
care needs. Still, sometimes good intentions get lost in the hustle and
bustle of work, family life and daily activities.
A trip to the doctor’s office shouldn’t happen only out of
necessity. It’s no secret that planning and preparation are the
keys to success, so why not take the same approach with scheduling your
doctor appointments? To get an optimal date and time that fits your busy
life, even if it’s months away, Southeast Georgia Health System
encourages you to make a toast to your good health this year by scheduling
annual health screenings and doctor visits now.
Preventive care appointments are critical in helping detect and diagnose
certain diseases, disorders, and
cancers. Preventative care appointments include wellness checkups,
health screenings and immunizations. These appointments alert your doctor of potentially
serious issues that may need more attention.
You should see a primary care physician at least once a year for a general
checkup and blood work. These tests screen cholesterol levels, blood pressure,
immune system health, and kidney and liver function.
Primary care providers can also keep you on schedule for vaccinations, provide dietary recommendations,
monitor your mental health and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist
for further treatment. Depending on your age and gender, you may need
to schedule an annual visit with your optometrist, dermatologist, and
gynecologist.
While scheduling your appointments is the essential first step –
don’t forget to add them to your calendar. Set reminders each month
and on the days leading up to the appointment. After all, nothing could
be worse than missing an appointment that could have changed or saved
your life!