The start of a new year is a great time to focus on your health. For many of us, that means setting resolutions to live a healthy, full life. While many people like to reset their health goals in January, Wellstar MCG Health providers partner with patients year-round to help them feel their best.
By following tips from Wellstar MCG Health experts, you can create realistic resolutions and better your health—making healthy choices a lifelong habit rather than a short-term goal.
Partner with a Wellstar MCG Health provider
When it comes to your wellness goals, staying healthy starts with a visit to your Wellstar MCG Health primary care provider.
“By partnering with your Wellstar MCG Health primary care provider, you can create a personalized care plan that aligns with your wellness goals,” said Wellstar MCG Family Medicine Physician Dr. Thad Wilkins, who is also a professor in the Department of Family Medicine at Augusta University.
“Developing healthy habits is key to maintaining wellness, and your primary care provider can guide you in making positive lifestyle changes.”
Know Your Foundational 4
To check your health status and screen for potential medical issues, your provider will take your Foundational 4 numbers, a few screenings that identify risk factors for some health conditions such as heart disease.
Blood pressure
A blood pressure test helps diagnose hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure), heart disease and other conditions.
Blood glucose level
The amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood can indicate the onset of diabetes or risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
Blood cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called “bad” cholesterol, can indicate clogged arteries, which may lead to heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
Body mass index (BMI)
A higher level of body fat may indicate an increased risk for heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes.
Personalized OB/GYN care for women
“Establishing women-related healthcare at a young age helps patients build relationships with their care team, learn about healthy behaviors and obtain answers to questions in a safe and comfortable space,” said Bianca Forte, a Wellstar MCG Health women’s health nurse practitioner. “These efforts aim to promote a strong health foundation so that all women reach their full potential for health and well-being across their lifespan.”
With our new pediatric adolescent gynecology clinic, Wellstar MCG Health is uniquely positioned to care for children, adolescents and young women as they progress through their developmental years. With locations in Augusta and Aiken, the clinic provides gynecological services to patients aged 0 to 24 and accepts walk-in appointments from 1 to 4 p.m. each week during Wellness Women Wednesdays.
“If you are a parent of a young female or adolescent, or a woman of any age, contact us today to make an appointment. The most common female related concerns in the developmental years are pubertal changes, painful or heavy periods, birth control, STD screening and treatment, ovarian cysts, vaginal discharge, vulvar skin conditions, and high-risk behaviors. We are here to meet all of your healthcare needs,” said Forte.
Primary care, anywhere
In addition to in-person primary care visits, Wellstar MCG Health also offers virtual care options. Connect with your Wellstar MCG Health provider over the phone or a computer, smartphone or tablet.
“Our primary care physicians are focused on long-term wellness goals and dedicated to providing care when you’re sick” said Dr. Wilkins.
If you need to see a specialist such as a cardiologist, pulmonologist or neurologist, your primary care provider will refer you for that specialized care while continuing to help you manage your overall wellness.
“Regular cancer and other screenings recommended by your primary care provider can help detect potential health concerns early, allowing for timely intervention,” explained Dr. Wilkins.
To learn which screenings are right for you, schedule an appointment with a Wellstar MCG Health primary care provider through our convenient online scheduler or by phone at (706) 721-CARE (2273).
