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It’s time to start being proactive about your health
and to get your and your family’s yearly check-ups.
In recent decades the focus of medicine has
shifted from acute care, or treatment of an
illness, to prevention. Often, we take our health for
granted and delay routine exams and screenings because
we don’t feel sick. It is a well-known fact that early detection
saves lives. If you don’t already have a primary care
provider — consider establishing a relationship with a
doctor you trust and are comfortable with.
You are unique and your situation in life is personal and
known best by you. You and your doctor can then work
together to develop a personalized health care plan that fits
your needs. It’s time to start being proactive about your
health and to get your and your family’s yearly check-ups.
Prevention
is the best medicine
By Brad M. Goates, MD
In medicine, the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”
holds true and can save you money and your life. According to the World
Health Organization, chronic illness is projected to be the leading cause of
disability by 2020 and if not successfully prevented or managed these illnesses
will become the most expensive problems faced by our healthcare systems.
As a family physician I feel it is my job to sift through
the news and research and the ever-changing world of
medicine to provide you with the latest and most up-todate
recommendations. What I like to do during a yearly
check-up is work with you to develop a personal preventative
service plan that will incorporate your individual situation
and preferences. This plan will include goals for diet,
exercise, weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Besides working together to make a plan, we will discuss
cancer screening (if you are over 50, a colonoscopy is in
order), vaccinations (whooping cough and shingles are
becoming particularly important), and the appropriate age
to begin a daily aspirin regimen (most over age 55).
As a family physician, I am here to assist you with acute
problems and provide preventative care to help you stay
healthy. Let’s recommit ourselves to wellness and schedule
our annual checkups.
Brad M. Goates, M.D.
Family Medicine
Logan Clinic
435.713.2800
helpful tips for a
successful check-up:
• Make an annual appointment for yourself
and your family members.
• Ask a friend or family member to come
with you to your appointment - this may
help to alleviate any anxiety you may
have.
• Prior to your visit, write down questions
you may have for your healthcare
provider.
• Bring a list of medications you are currently
taking.
• Schedule any preventative tests that your
doctor recommends.
• Remember to follow-up on your test
results.
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