HealthEast Clinics Compass - January / February 2008

You and your health care provider share the goal of maximizing your health. The key to reaching this goal is being prepared for your preventive care visit. Here's how.

Important tests and screenings
Your clinician will know what preventive care and screenings are necessary based on your age, health history and risk factors. Your clinician may discuss an advance directive with you, and things like your blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) may be checked at every visit. According to your age, other recommendations may include:

Chlamydia screen, Pap smear and pelvic exam: annually for females with onset of sexual activity; then Pap smear once every three years after three consecutive normal results
Adult vaccines: including Gardasil, for females up through age 26; tetanus every 10 years; herpes zoster vaccine at age 60-79 and pneumovax
Cholesterol test: every five years from age 35
Mammograms: annually for females from age 35
Colon Cancer Screen: annually from age 50
DEXA scan (bone density test): females at age 65; males at age 70

And remember, you're never too old for preventive care. Men and women of all ages are at risk for various health conditions, many of which are preventable. Seeing a doctor regularly can help keep you healthy.

Ensure clear communication
Be prepared. Before your appointment, make notes about anything you'd like to discuss with your doctor. Be sure to include any particular concerns. Jotting a few notes can help you remember what to bring up during the appointment.

Be honest. The most important thing to remember during your exam is to be up-front and honest. Tell the truth about your diet, exercise, family history and lifestyle choices to ensure a thorough and accurate assessment of your health risks.

Share your health goals. Help make your clinician/patient relationship a partnership where you work together to meet your health goals. For example, are you trying to lose weight or quit smoking? Your doctor can provide information and resources to help you.

Working together
Think of preventive exams as opportunities for an open, honest discussion. Taking the right preventive steps today can help ensure a healthy tomorrow.

Research shows that men die at higher rates than women for nine of the top 10 causes of death. On average, American men live 5.4 fewer years than American women. Generally, men are less likely to visit the doctor regularly. That’s unfortunate, because tests and screenings can guide men in taking preventive steps to stay healthy.

Important screenings for men of all ages include blood pressure and cholesterol tests, diabetes screenings, digital rectal exams and PSA tests for prostate health, testicular exams and colorectal screenings. These exams and regular checkups can help diagnose health concerns in the early stages when they are most treatable.

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This publication does not constitute professional medical advice. Although it is intended to be accurate, neither the publisher nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this material. If you have a medical question, consult your medical professional. © 2008 HealthEast Care System