Direct Primary Care
What is Direct Primary Care and Why Choose It?
In today’s fast-paced healthcare landscape, many families are frustrated with long waits, rushed appointments, and unclear billing practices. If you’re tired of feeling like just another number in the system, it’s time to explore a better alternative: Direct Primary Care (DPC). At Roots Health DPC, we’re redefining healthcare by putting patients at the center of everything we do. Here’s why you should consider making the switch to DPC for your family’s healthcare needs.
What is Direct Primary Care?
Direct Primary Care is a healthcare model that prioritizes direct relationships between patients and their physicians. Instead of relying on insurance companies to dictate your care, DPC offers a membership-based approach. Families pay a flat monthly fee, which covers a wide range of services, from routine visits to preventive care. This model allows for greater transparency, accessibility, and personalized care.
Top 5 Benefits of Direct Primary Care for Families
1. Improved Access to Your Doctor
Imagine having unlimited access to your physician. At Roots Health DPC, we believe health concerns shouldn’t wait. Whether you have an urgent question or a routine check-up, our members enjoy same-day or next-day appointments. You can even reach your doctor via text, phone, or email, eliminating the long wait times often seen in traditional practices.
2. More Time During Each Visit
In a typical healthcare setting, you might only get 10-15 minutes with your doctor. This hurried environment can leave your questions unanswered and your concerns unaddressed. At Roots Health DPC, we take a different approach. Our appointments are longer, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, allowing for thorough discussions, detailed exams, and personalized treatment plans that truly cater to your family’s needs.
3. Transparent and Affordable Pricing
Navigating health insurance can often feel like wandering through a maze of unclear bills and surprise fees. With DPC, you’ll enjoy straightforward pricing with no hidden costs. Our membership model covers all visits, consultations, and most in-office procedures, giving you peace of mind about your healthcare expenses. Say goodbye to surprise bills and hello to predictable costs.
4. Focus on Preventive Care
Preventive care is crucial for keeping your family healthy. With DPC, your doctor has the time to emphasize prevention rather than just treating symptoms. We prioritize routine checkups, wellness visits, and chronic disease management, ensuring your family remains healthy and avoids unnecessary medical complications. Whether it’s managing diabetes or addressing mental health concerns, our focus is on proactive care.
5. A Personalized Relationship with Your Doctor
Continuity of care is key to effective healthcare. In traditional settings, you may see a different doctor each time, which can disrupt your treatment. At Roots Health DPC, you’ll work with the same physician consistently, fostering a strong relationship built on trust. We take the time to understand your family’s medical history, lifestyle, and health goals, leading to better, more personalized care.
Why Choose Roots Health DPC for Your Family?
At Roots Health DPC, we’re passionate about providing a modern healthcare experience with the warmth of old-school service. Our family-centric approach emphasizes quality over quantity, ensuring that every family member, from children to adults, receives the attention they deserve.
If you’re ready to prioritize your family’s health and enjoy a more personalized, stress-free healthcare experience, consider making the switch to Roots Health Direct Primary Care. Join us today and experience healthcare that truly puts your family first. Your health journey deserves a better alternative—let us be your partner every step of the way!
Open Enrollment
Open Enrollment is Just Around the Corner!
It’s that time of year again—Open Enrollment is approaching!
Whether your health insurance is through your employer or you’re exploring private policies, this is your chance to select a plan that truly fits your needs. Starting January 1, you’ll want to be confident in your choices, as they will typically lock in until the next enrollment period unless you experience a qualifying event.
Navigating Your Options with Confidence
At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we’re here to help you navigate these important decisions. Unlike traditional insurance companies that prioritize profits, we put our patients first. Our focus is on delivering quality healthcare, grounded in the oath we took as healthcare providers.
What to Look For During Open Enrollment
Here are a few key factors to consider as you review your options:
1. Cost Changes: Be on the lookout for any increases in premiums or out-of-pocket costs for services like lab work and imaging. As a Direct Primary Care member, you’ll benefit from significant savings on these services, making your healthcare more affordable.
2. Prescription Drug Coverage: Check for changes in your medication coverage. Sometimes, essential medications may no longer be covered or could be moved to a higher-cost tier. At Roots Health, we offer discounted pricing on medications for our members, ensuring you have access to the treatments you need without breaking the bank.
3. In-Network Providers: Many patients find that their preferred physicians are no longer in-network with their new plans. With Direct Primary Care, you can rest assured that our services remain unaffected by these insurance changes. Your care will always come first.
4. Transparent Pricing: One of the most significant benefits of Direct Primary Care is our commitment to transparency in pricing. There are no surprise copays or unexpected bills—what you see is what you get. This allows you to plan your healthcare expenses without stress.
Maximizing Your Coverage
If you’re considering plans with high deductibles and low premiums, pairing them with a Direct Primary Care membership can save you thousands in healthcare costs. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your direct healthcare services are consistent and predictable, regardless of insurance fluctuations.
Transitioning Jobs or Facing a Lapse in Coverage?
Direct Primary Care is an excellent option during times of transition, offering transparent pricing and covering the majority of your healthcare needs. We recommend maintaining some form of catastrophic coverage to protect yourself against unexpected medical emergencies.
Make Informed Choices This Open Enrollment
This is your opportunity to take control of your healthcare. Let us guide you through the process and ensure you make the best choices for your health and well-being.
Schedule a consultation with us today! Together, we can navigate Open Enrollment and ensure you have the coverage that serves you best. Your health matters, and we’re here for you—every step of the way.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
We’re Here for You
As we enter October, a month dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness, it’s crucial to highlight the importance of early detection and proactive health management. Did you know that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer?
At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we’re committed to supporting you through these unexpected life events.
Understanding Your Screening Options
Navigating breast cancer screening can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our approach focuses on personalized care tailored to your unique risk factors and health history. Whether it’s understanding when to start mammograms or discussing alternative screening options like MRIs or ultrasounds, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Your Health, Your Advocate
In addition to screening, we emphasize the importance of education and open dialogue about breast health. You deserve a healthcare team that listens and advocates for your needs, helping you make informed decisions about your care.
Be Proactive
This month, let’s prioritize our breast health together. Schedule your initial consultation with us to discuss your screening options and any concerns you may have. Remember, we’re here for you—because every life event is easier to navigate with a supportive partner by your side.
Take charge of your health today. Your journey is important to us!
National Primary Care Week
Celebrating National Primary Care Week:
The Power of Direct Primary Care
As we celebrate National Primary Care Week, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the importance of accessible, compassionate, and personalized healthcare. At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we believe that health care should be about more than just treating symptoms; it’s about building lasting relationships and fostering overall well-being.
Why Choose Direct Primary Care (DPC)?
In today’s fast-paced world, many people feel like just another number in the healthcare system. Direct Primary Care is a refreshing alternative that prioritizes the human touch in healthcare, focusing on meaningful interactions and comprehensive care.
The Benefits of DPC:
1. Personalized Care: With DPC, you get more than just a provider; you gain a trusted partner in your health journey. Our team takes the time to understand your unique needs, preferences, and goals, ensuring you receive tailored care that resonates with you.
2.Continuity of Care: We believe that effective healthcare is built on trust and familiarity. In a DPC model, you have consistent access to the same healthcare team, fostering deeper connections and better understanding of your medical history. This continuity enhances the quality of care you receive.
3. Comprehensive Care Coordination: Navigating the healthcare landscape can be overwhelming. With DPC, we act as your health advocate, coordinating your care seamlessly. Whether you need referrals to specialists or help managing chronic conditions, we’re here to ensure you receive the comprehensive support you need.
4. More Time with Your Provider: In a DPC model, appointments are longer and less rushed. This allows for thorough discussions, questions, and personalized care plans, ensuring you feel heard and valued during every visit.
5. Holistic Approach: We focus on the whole person, integrating physical, mental, and emotional health. Our approach promotes overall wellness, helping you achieve a balanced lifestyle.
As we honor National Primary Care Week, we invite you to explore the benefits of Direct Primary Care. At Roots Health, we are dedicated to providing you with compassionate, accessible, and comprehensive care that prioritizes the human connection.
Let’s Partner for Your Health
Your health journey is unique, and you deserve a healthcare model that respects and nurtures that individuality. If you’re ready to experience the difference that Direct Primary Care can make, schedule your consultation with us today. Together, we can create a supportive environment where you feel empowered and cared for every step of the way.
Remember, healthcare is about relationships, and we’re here for you.
Mental Health for Families
Breaking the Silence:
Supporting Mental Health for Families
As we navigate life’s challenges, it’s important to take a moment to focus on an often-overlooked aspect of well-being: mental health. Families are the backbone of our communities, but when one member is facing mental health challenges, the effects can ripple throughout an entire household.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s recognize the importance of prioritizing mental health for everyone in the family. Whether you’re a parent, sibling, or caregiver, it’s essential to understand that your health and well-being matter just as much as those you support.
Why Prioritizing Your Mental Health Matters
When a loved one struggles with mental health issues, it can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and even isolation for family members. But it’s crucial to remember that you’re not alone in this journey. By prioritizing your mental health, you can create a more supportive environment for everyone involved.
Here are a few practical steps to help you focus on your mental health:
- Connect with Others: Seek out support groups or mental health professionals who can provide guidance and a listening ear. Sharing your experiences can foster a sense of community and understanding.
- Establish Healthy Boundaries: It’s okay to set boundaries that protect your mental and emotional well-being. Communicate openly with your loved ones about what you need, and remember that it’s not selfish to take time for yourself.
- Engage in Self-Care: Make time for activities that rejuvenate your spirit. Whether it’s a daily walk, indulging in a hobby, or simply unwinding with a good book, self-care is essential for maintaining your mental health.
At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we’re committed to supporting families through their unique challenges. Our compassionate team is here to provide the resources and guidance you need, tailored specifically to your situation.
You don’t have to face these challenges alone.
We believe in creating a supportive environment where everyone’s mental health is prioritized. Schedule your consultation with us today, and let’s work together to ensure that your family thrives, no matter what health care needs arise.
Remember, your mental health matters.
Take the first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Why Choose Direct Primary Care Over Traditional Models?
Why Choose Direct Primary Care?
The Advantages Over Traditional Care Models
In today’s evolving healthcare landscape, Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a refreshing alternative. If you’re disenchanted with your current healthcare experience… it’s important to understand how DPC works so you know your options.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between DPC and traditional care models.
1. Personalized Attention vs. Rushed Appointments
- Traditional Care: In traditional models, appointments are often shorter and can be rushed due to high patient volumes. This means less time for discussing your concerns and a more fragmented approach to your care.
- Direct Primary Care: DPC practices prioritize longer, unhurried appointments, allowing you to spend more time with your provider. This approach fosters a deeper relationship and a more thorough understanding of your health, leading to personalized better care.
2. Simplified Costs vs. Complex Billing
- Traditional Care: Traditional care often involves complex billing procedures, with separate charges for office visits, lab tests, and other services. This can lead to unexpected costs and confusion, especially when dealing with insurance claims and co-pays.
- Direct Primary Care: With DPC, you pay a simple, predictable monthly fee. This straightforward pricing model eliminates the need for insurance billing and hidden costs, making your healthcare spend transparent and easy to manage.
3. Direct Access vs. Insurance Gatekeepers
- Traditional Care: In traditional models, accessing care often requires navigating through insurance gatekeepers and obtaining referrals or using urgent care. This is time-consuming and frustrating and can delay your access to necessary care.
- Direct Primary Care: DPC offers direct access to your primary care provider without insurance hurdles. You can contact your provider directly via phone, email, or secure messaging, getting the responses you need when you need them.
4. Focused Care vs. Fragmented Services
- Traditional Care: Traditional care can sometimes feel fragmented, with different specialists working in silos. This may lead to disjointed care and communication challenges, impacting the overall effectiveness of your treatment.
- Direct Primary Care: DPC emphasizes a holistic approach to your health. We coordinate all aspects of your care, including referrals to specialists when needed, ensuring a cohesive and integrated approach to your health care plan.
5. Proactive Wellness vs. Reactive Treatment
- Traditional Care: Traditional care focuses on treating illnesses and symptoms as they arise. This reactive approach can sometimes lead to more severe health issues that could have been prevented with earlier intervention.
- Direct Primary Care: DPC promotes a proactive approach to wellness, emphasizing preventivion. By focusing on lifestyle changes and early intervention, DPC helps you maintain better overall health and avoid potential issues before they become serious.
6. Limited Access vs. Comprehensive Services
- Traditional Care: Traditional care models may have limited access to certain services and resources, especially if they are not covered by insurance or are deemed non-essential.
- Direct Primary Care: DPC provides a wide range of services, from routine exams to urgent care with minor procedures, all covered by your monthly fee. This comprehensive approach ensures that you have access to the care you need without worrying about additional costs.
Discover the DPC Difference
At Roots Health DPC, we’re dedicated to providing a healthcare experience that prioritizes your needs and well-being. Our Direct Primary Care model offers a personalized, transparent, and comprehensive approach to your health. If you’re looking for a more direct, patient-centered healthcare experience, we invite you to explore the benefits of DPC with us.
Contact us today to learn more about how Direct Primary Care can transform your healthcare experience. Let’s work together to create a healthier, happier you!
Yoga and Your Health
National Yoga Awareness Month
Major benefits of yoga practice
As we celebrate National Yoga Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to explore how yoga can be a game-changer for your overall health. Yoga isn’t just about flexible poses and deep breaths; it’s a holistic practice that nurtures both body and mind.
1. Stress Reduction
Yoga’s focus on mindful breathing and meditation helps lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress.
A relaxed and balanced state of mind help you manage daily stressors more effectively.
2. Improved Flexibility and Strength
These benefits contribute to better posture and reduced risk of injuries.
3. Better Mental Clarity
Yoga encourages mindfulness. Centering your attention on the present moment, , which can improve mental clarity and focus leading to improved concentration and memory.
4. Boosted Immune System
The combination of reduced stress, better sleep, and physical activity supports a more resilient immune system, helping you stay healthy year-round.
Start Small
You don’t need to be a yoga expert to reap its benefits. Even a few minutes of daily practice can make a significant difference. Consider joining a class or using online resources. We work to find routines that fit your lifestyle.
This National Yoga Awareness Month, take a moment to embrace the many health benefits yoga has to offer. Your body and mind will thank you!
Happy practicing!
National Folic Acid Awareness Week
Women and Folate
Let’s review the importance of folate (vitamin B9) in preventing birth defects, including spinal cord malformations like spina bifida.
Why Folate Matters
Folate is essential. Adequate folate intake before and during early pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of serious conditions, such as:
- Neural Tube Defects: These include life-threatening conditions affecting the spinal cord and brain.
- Spinal Cord Malformations: Proper folate levels are crucial for healthy spinal cord development.
Why Act Now?
All women of child-bearing age need to take folate.
The majority of pregnancies are unplanned, and the neural tube forms early in pregnancy, often before a woman realizes she’s expecting. Consuming enough folate daily is a proactive step to ensure a healthy start for future pregnancies.
Folate (400mcg) is present in most Multi-Vitamins for Women.
At Roots Health DPC we are with you every step of the way in your journey helping you make the best decisions for your health and wellness. Learn more and ensure your future is healthy.
Stay informed and proactive this Folate Awareness Week!
Cholesterol Education Month
National Cholesterol Education Month:
What You Need to Know
September is National Cholesterol Education Month. It’s the perfect time to focus on making sure you know your cholesterol numbers. At our direct primary care practice, we’re here to help you understand your cholesterol levels to better support your heart health.
What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood. It comes in two main types:
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): Often called “bad” cholesterol, high levels can lead to heart disease.
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): Known as “good” cholesterol, it helps remove LDL from your blood.
Why It Matters?
High LDL levels can cause plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Managing your cholesterol is key to maintaining a healthy heart.
How We Can Help
- Personalized Screenings: We offer detailed cholesterol assessments, including understanding the ratios and risks to your heart health.
- Custom Plans: We provide tailored recommendations that include lifestyle modifications and supplements/meds to improve your heart health.
- Ongoing Support: We offer continuous guidance to help you stay on track with your heart health goals.
This month, take a step towards better heart health. Schedule a screening with us and let’s work together to manage your cholesterol effectively. For more information or to book an appointment, get in touch today!
Stay heart-healthy this September and beyond!
DPC MYTHS
DPC: Debunking the Myths
Direct Primary Care (DPC) is revolutionizing healthcare, but there are many misconceptions. To help you understand what DPC is all about, let’s debunk some common myths and clarify how it differs from concierge care.
Myth 1: DPC Is Too Expensive for Most People
Fact: Many believe DPC is out of reach due to high costs, but this could not be farther from the truth. In fact, DPC provides a more predictable and often lower cost compared to traditional insurance plans. We offer various pricing tiers to fit different budgets, making it more accessible than you thought.
Myth 2: DPC Is Only for Healthy People
Fact: There’s a misconception that DPC is only suitable for healthy individuals. DPC is actually very effective for those with chronic conditions as well. The model emphasizes building long-term relationships and offering personalized care, which can be particularly beneficial for managing chronic health issues effectively.
Myth 3: DPC Means No Access to Specialists
Fact: Another myth is that DPC doesn’t provide access to specialists. In reality, DPC providers often collaborate more closely with specialists and can offer referrals and coordinate care for patients. This ensures access to necessary specialist services while benefiting from personalized primary care.
Myth 4: DPC is just like Concierge Care
Fact: A common misconception is that Direct Primary Care (DPC) and concierge care are interchangeable, but they are distinct models. Concierge Care involves paying a high annual fee to a primary care physician in addition to typical copays and deductibles with traditional insurance, often leading to additional costs.
Direct Primary Care (DPC) involves paying a low monthly fee and operates independently of traditional insurance... focusing on a very direct, accessible, and more affordable care model without the additional layers of complexity.
At Roots Health DPC, we are committed to transforming healthcare by offering a patient-focused model that emphasizes accessibility and personalized care. Our approach combines cost-effective solutions with a holistic commitment to your well-being.
Back to School
It’s that time of year again.
How can we help our kids have a successful year?
Focus on Nutrition
Involve them in packing lunch. Help them choose a healthy energy boost during their school day.
- High protein foods (yogurt, cheese, beans, hummus) with fresh vegetables and fruits.
- Avoid empty calories added from sugars and solid fats.
- Hydrate. Take the water bottle to school.
Learning Styles and Behaviors
Now is a good time to schedule an annual exam with your doctor.
Review any questions or concerns you may have about age-appropriate behavior, developmental milestones, and learning styles that can affect your child’s ability to learn in a classroom.
Vision Screening is important. Make sure your child has been screened.
Exercise: Get Active
Younger kids need 60 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity each day.
- Encourage sports and outdoor activities after school.
- Walk or Bike to school.
It is an exciting time with lots of changes to the routine. Parents play a key role in helping children make a successful transition.
Eye Exam Month
“Ensuring a clear vision for a healthy future—literally and figuratively—with our Direct Primary Care!”
Celebrate National Eye Exam Month with Us!
August is here, and it’s not just another month—it’s National Eye Exam Month! This annual observance is a gentle reminder to prioritize our vision health, which often gets overlooked in our busy lives.
Why Are Eye Exams Important?
Regular eye exams are crucial for everyone, regardless of age or current vision status. These exams not only help detect changes in vision but also serve as early indicators of broader health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and even certain cancers. By catching these issues early, we can take proactive steps to maintain overall well-being.
Our Commitment to Your Vision Health
At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we’re passionate about comprehensive care that extends beyond traditional medical services. As a Direct Primary Care clinic, we emphasize personalized attention and proactive health management. This means you get more than just a quick visit—you receive thorough assessments and the time needed to discuss your concerns, including your vision health.
What Sets Us Apart
Unlike conventional practices, we offer a membership-based model that focuses on accessibility and affordability. Our approach ensures you receive the attention and care you deserve without the hassle of insurance paperwork or copays. Whether you need a routine eye check-up or have specific vision concerns, we’re here to help.
Let’s prioritize your vision health together—because seeing clearly is living fully! Discover the personalized care experience at Roots Health Direct Primary Care.
Lung Cancer Awareness Day on August 1st
August 1st: Challenging Assumptions about Lung Cancer
We all make assumptions about who gets lung cancer. It’s easy to think it only affects smokers, but the truth is, that lung cancer can touch anyone’s life unexpectedly.
Take Mark, a patient of mine and a dedicated athlete who never smoked a day in his life. When he received a lung cancer diagnosis, it shattered the misconception that only smokers are at risk.
Lung Cancer Awareness Day on August 1st is a poignant reminder of this reality. It serves as a call to action for early detection and proactive health management.
At Roots Health Direct Primary Care, we’ve seen firsthand the importance of personalized care in dealing with such challenges and we know that the risk factors for lung cancer go far beyond cigarette smoking to include radon and other inhaled substances in addition to genetic predisposition.
Mark’s journey helped me to advocate even more passionately for my patients. Our Direct Primary Care approach ensures every patient, like Mark, receives individualized attention and access to essential screenings. Whether you’re a smoker concerned about lung health or a non-smoker curious about preventive measures, we’re here to support your wellness journey.
Together, let’s challenge misconceptions and prioritize your health for a brighter, healthier future.
Prevention of heart disease outweighs its treatment.
Heart Disease:
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Heart Disease is the number one killer for women…
Heart disease is often preventable.
The following lifestyle changes lower risk and protect your heart.
Maintain a healthy weight
Losing 5% to 10% of your body weight can lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and the risk of developing diabetes.
Quit smoking
Smokers have more than twice the risk for heart attack than do nonsmokers.
Get Active
Aerobic exercise reduces your risk of heart disease.
Change the fats in your foods
Avoid saturated fats. Substitute olive oil for butter. All fats are high in calories so use them sparingly to avoid weight gain.
Eat fruits and veggies
Eat plenty of produce. We recommend eating at least 3 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruits daily.
Fiber up
Soluble fiber helps reduce cholesterol. Oatmeal, whole-grain bread, and other whole-grain foods are excellent sources of this nutrient.
World Hepatitis Day
What is hepatitis? Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver which can lead to cirrhosis.
On world hepatitis day, we are raising awareness about viral hepatitis. Here’s what you need to know:
What are the types of Viral Hepatitis?
- Hepatitis A (HAV): Spread through contaminated food/water; preventable with a vaccine.
- Hepatitis B (HBV): Transmitted through bodily fluids; can be chronic and severe. Vaccination is crucial.
- Hepatitis C (HCV): Spread via blood contact; often chronic but treatable with antiviral medications.
- Hepatitis D (HDV): Occurs with HBV infection; prevented by HBV vaccination.
- Hepatitis E (HEV): Spread through contaminated water; usually acute and self-resolving.
What are the Symptoms?
- Jaundice (yellowing skin/eyes)
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Dark urine
How is Hepatitis Prevented?
- Vaccination: Available for HAV and HBV.
- Hygiene: Handwashing, safe food/water.
- Safe Practices: Use condoms, avoid sharing needles.
Cost-Effective Medications
Your Medications Should Be Affordable
Medications do not need to be expensive.
We know that medication costs have soared, often leaving patients struggling to afford them. At Roots Health DPC, we’re simplifying access to affordable medications. Here’s how:
- We purchase medications at wholesale prices and pass the savings directly to our patients.
- We eliminate the middleman to ensure our patients get their medications at the lowest possible cost.
This approach has reduced prescription costs by 50% to 90% for our patients.
A Selection of example Medications Available for Less Than $5 Per Month:
Metformin
Ibuprofen
Lisinopril
Amlodipine
Sertraline/Zoloft
Lovastatin
Sumatriptan/Imitrex
Loratadine/Claritin
A Simple Solution for a “Complex” Problem
Our approach at Direct Primary Care (DPC) is centered on delivering comprehensive healthcare directly to our patients. We prioritize offering medications at reduced rates to ensure convenience for essential treatments for your health needs. Our expertise allows us to collaborate closely with you to identify the medications tailored to your health conditions.
Panic Attacks
Recognizing Panic Attacks
July 10th is Panic Attack Awareness Day… the right time to understand and talk about panic attacks. These sudden episodes of intense anxiety can be alarming and confusing if you have not experienced it before.
Knowing the signs is the first step to managing them.
Recognizing the Signs… you might feel…
a rapid heartbeat
sweating/ trembling
shortness of breath or chest pain
nausea or dizziness
a fear of losing control.
Managing Panic Attacks
While we all experience stress, overwhelming anxiety/recurrent attacks is not something to ignore. Some action items if you are struggling include:
- Deep Breathing: Slow, deep breaths calm your system in the moment.
- Stay Grounded: Focus on your surroundings as it occurs.
- Learn More: Understanding reduces fear and education is critical.
- Seek Help: Talk to your trusted physician to develop a plan that works for you.
UV Safety Awareness Month
Stay Safe in the Sun!
July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and with summer here, it’s the time to protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful UV rays.
Why UV Safety Matters?
UV radiation from the sun can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., with over 5 million cases annually.
Tips to Stay Safe:
- Wear Protective Clothing: Use hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply SPF 30+ and reapply every two hours.
- Seek Shade: Stay out of direct sunlight, especially from 10 AM to 4 PM.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: They increase skin cancer risk.
- Regular Skin Exams: Check for new or unusual skin changes.
Protecting your skin is crucial, regardless of skin tone. To learn about how we do health care centered around you… visit us at Roots Health DPC.
What exactly is PREDIABETES?
Around 96 million American adults, which is over one-third of the population, have prediabetes. More than 80% of these individuals are unaware of their condition. Most people are not informed that regular screening is necessary.
What are the risks associated with having prediabetes?
Prediabetes greatly raises the likelihood of progressing to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Understanding this condition is crucial for prevention and management.
The positive aspect is that prediabetes, which can be readily identified through blood tests, can be managed with lifestyle adjustments to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes and other major health issues.
Let’s debunk a few prevalent myths about diabetes today.
Myth: Being at a healthy weight means you’re not at risk for diabetes.
Obesity and being overweight are linked to various health issues and raise the risk of type 2 diabetes. However, maintaining a healthy weight doesn’t make you immune to the disease, as even those at a healthy weight can develop diabetes.
Myth: Since no one in my family has diabetes, I won’t get it.
Having a close relative with type 2 diabetes raises your likelihood of developing it. However, the risk also increases as you age. Individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, and those who are overweight or obese have a higher risk, irrespective of family history. While you cannot alter your family history or age, adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk.
Myth: It is impossible to take any measures to prevent diabetes.
While genetics contribute to your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, lifestyle decisions are crucial in its prevention. Keeping a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and making dietary improvements can lower your diabetes risk. Smoking impairs insulin use, so avoiding smoking can reduce your risk. Additionally, alcohol consumption can affect your risk.
Migraine Headaches
Is it a Migraine Headache?
Migraines typically result in throbbing pain on one side of the head and are frequently associated with nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound. These attacks can persist for hours to days, significantly impacting daily activities.
What is an Aura?
A warning sign, known as an aura, can precede the headache. An aura may involve visual disturbances like flashes of light or other sensations such as tingling in the face, arm, or leg, or even difficulty speaking.
Risk Factors for Migraines
- Family history: If you have a family member with migraines, then you have a good chance of developing them too.
- Sex. Women are three times more likely than men to have migraines..
- Age. Most people have their first migraine during adolescence, but migraines can start at any age, usually before age 40.
- Hormonal changes. Headaches can begin around menstruation. They can change during pregnancy or menopause. Migraines generally improve after menopause.
Triggers for Migraines
- Certain Drinks and Foods . Alcohol and excess caffeine can trigger migraines.
- Stress triggers migraines. Stress includes feeling overwhelmed at home or work. But you can also become stressed by exercising too much or not getting enough sleep.
- Senses: Loud sounds, bright lights , or strong smells may trigger migraines.
- Hormonal changes. Fluctuations in estrogen, such as around menstrual periods, pregnancy and menopause can worsen migraines.
- Illness. Infections, such as the cold or the flu, may trigger migraines, especially in children.
- Weather changes. A change of weather or barometric pressure can prompt a migraine.
- Medications. Some medications, including oral contraceptives, can trigger migraines
Keeping a Journal of your migraine symptoms can be a key to treatment planning.