According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 83.4% of adults aged 18-64 had contact with a healthcare professional in the past year. This statistic highlights the importance of having a primary care physician (PCP) and regularly visiting them for check-ups and to manage any health concerns. However, many people may not know what questions they should be asking during their appointments to get the most out of their visit.
To make the most out of your next visit, Dr. Eric Skvarla and Nurse Practitioner Kristine Watson of Epic Medical have compiled a list of the top 6 questions you should ask your PCP during your next visit. These questions will not only help you understand your health better but also build a stronger relationship with your PCP.
1. How Can I Improve My Overall Health?
Getting a check-up is one thing, but understanding how to improve your health is the next step. Your PCP can offer personalized advice based on your specific health profile, which no article online can replicate. Whether it's tips on improving your physical health or mental health, your doctor can provide actionable advice that fits into your lifestyle.
Make sure you understand not only what to do but how to do it. Simple adjustments like increasing your daily steps or incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet can have a significant impact on your health. Be ready to talk about your current habits and any challenges so your primary care provider can tailor the advice to your needs.
2. What Screenings Do I Need?
Preventive screenings are crucial for catching health issues early on and preventing serious complications. However, not all screenings are necessary for everyone. Your health care provider can assess your risk factors and recommend the right screenings for you based on your age, gender, family medical history, and lifestyle factors.
Some common preventive screenings include mammograms, colonoscopies, blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and diabetes screenings. Make sure to ask your PCP about the recommended frequency for each screening so you can stay on top of your health.
3. What Medications or Supplements Should I Be Taking?
Your PCP is the best person to ask about any medications or supplements you are currently taking or thinking of starting. They can review your medical history and provide guidance on what medications or supplements are necessary, safe, and effective for you. They can also alert you to any potential interactions between different medications or supplements.
Never start or stop taking any medication without consulting your doctor first. Even seemingly harmless over-the-counter medications and supplements can have adverse effects when combined with prescription drugs or other conditions.
4. How Can I Manage My Chronic Conditions Better?
If you have a chronic health condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma, it's essential to regularly check in with your PCP. Ask them about any new treatments or management strategies that can help you better control your condition.
Your doctor can also recommend lifestyle changes or refer you to specialists for further management if necessary. The more you understand your condition and how to manage it, the more control you'll have over your health.
5. Are There Any New Symptoms or Changes I Should Watch For?
Understanding what's normal for your body and recognizing any changes or new symptoms is crucial for the early detection of potential health issues. Your PCP can advise on specific symptoms or changes to watch for that may indicate a problem. Whether it’s a new mole, persistent pain, or unexpected weight changes, your primary care doctor can guide you when to seek medical attention.
Make sure you also ask about any potential side effects of your current medications and what warning signs to look out for. Being aware of these red flags can help prevent serious complications.
6. When Should I Schedule My Next Appointment?
Before leaving your appointment, make sure to ask your PCP when you should come back for your next check-up. The recommended frequency for visits may vary depending on your age, health status, and risk factors. Some people may need to see their PCP more frequently, while others can schedule annual check-ups.
It's also a good idea to ask about any follow-up tests or screenings you should complete before your next visit. This ensures that you are staying on track with your health goals and addressing any potential health issues promptly.
How Epic Medical Can Help You
At Epic Medical, our goal is to provide personalized and comprehensive care for all our patients. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Skvarla and Kristine Watson, is dedicated to building strong relationships with our patients and helping them achieve their optimal health.
We offer a wide range of services, including:
- Concierge Medicine: A personalized approach to primary care that gives you more time with your doctor and convenient access to healthcare services.
- Family Medicine: Comprehensive care for patients of all ages, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and acute illness treatment.
- Sports Medicine + PT: Specialized care for athletes and active individuals to prevent, diagnose, and treat sports-related injuries.
Get Personalized Care with Epic Medical!
Asking the right questions during your next PCP visit is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing serious medical issues. Make sure to prepare a list of questions beforehand so you can make the most out of your appointment. Remember, your PCP is there to help you understand your health better and provide personalized care, so don't be afraid to ask for advice or guidance.
As the leading family physician clinic and concierge medicine practice in Fox Chapel, Epic Medical is committed to providing exceptional primary care services to individuals and families. Our team is dedicated to building long-term relationships with our patients and helping them towards better health.
Schedule your next visit with us and discuss any questions or concerns you may have about your health. Our experienced team of professionals, led by Dr. Eric Skvarla and Nurse Practitioner Kristine Watson are dedicated to helping you live your best life. We look forward to seeing you soon!
