Myths About Diabetes
Busting Common Myths About Diabetes
Did you know that over 96 million American adults are living with prediabetes, yet a staggering 80% of them are unaware of their condition? It’s time to shed some light on this silent threat and dispel the myths surrounding diabetes.
Myth #1: Healthy Weight = No Diabetes Risk
While obesity is a known risk factor for type 2 diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight doesn’t guarantee immunity. Even individuals at a healthy weight can develop diabetes, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle choices beyond the scale.
Myth #2: Diabetes is Just a Family Affair
While family history does play a role, age, heart health, and lifestyle choices also contribute to your diabetes risk. Regardless of your family background, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk.
Myth #3: Diabetes is Inevitable
Contrary to popular belief, you have the power to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes through lifestyle modifications. From maintaining a healthy weight to quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake, small changes can make a big difference in your health.
Myth #4: Blame Game: It’s Your Fault
Diabetes is a complex disease influenced by various factors, including genetics and lifestyle. Blaming individuals for their condition overlooks the multifaceted nature of diabetes and undermines efforts to promote understanding and support.
Myth #5: Diabetes is Just a Minor Inconvenience
Diabetes isn’t just a nuisance – it’s a serious health condition with potentially life-threatening complications. From heart disease to blindness, diabetes can significantly impact quality of life and longevity.
Mystery of Prediabetes
Prediabetes: Why Screening Matters
Ever wondered if you’re at risk for prediabetes without even realizing it? You’re not alone. With 1 in 3 American adults affected, the stakes are high. But here’s the catch: prediabetes often lurks silently, without any telltale symptoms. That’s why early screening is your best defense.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Take the first step towards a healthier future by scheduling a free consultation with our team. Let’s tackle prediabetes head-on and pave the way for better health together.
Prediabetes
Staying Healthy:
Understanding Prediabetes Screening
Have you ever wondered if your body’s engine is running smoothly or if it needs a tune-up? Just like your car’s “check-engine” light, prediabetes serves as a crucial warning sign, alerting us to potential health risks down the road.
But here’s the good news: with the right knowledge and proactive steps, you can steer clear of diabetes and its complications.
Screening for Prediabetes: Your Roadmap to Health
At our Direct Primary Care clinic, we prioritize early detection and prevention. Screening for prediabetes involves simple yet effective tests that provide valuable insights into your metabolic health. Here’s what you need to know:
Fasting Glucose Test: This test measures your blood sugar levels after a period of fasting. Prediabetes is indicated by a glucose level between 100-125 mg/dL, while diabetes is diagnosed at 126 mg/dL or higher.
Hemoglobin A1C Test: Unlike the fasting glucose test, the A1C test offers a broader view of your blood sugar control over the past three months. A result between 5.7 percent to 6.4 percent suggests prediabetes, while 6.5 percent or higher indicates diabetes.
Empower Yourself with Knowledge
Understanding your prediabetes status is the first step towards taking control of your health journey. Armed with this knowledge, you can make informed decisions and implement positive changes to prevent the progression to diabetes.
Heart Disease
Heart Disease:
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Heart Disease is the number one killer for women…. knowing your risk is half the battle.
Heart disease is often preventable for women. The following lifestyle changes help lower risk and protect your heart.
Maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight can raise your blood pressure, cholesterol, and increase risk for diabetes.
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. The risk for blood clots also increases, which can cause stroke.
Get Active
Strive for regular moderate to high intensity physical activity. This can be done in 30 minute chunks, 5 days a week. Aerobic exercise reduces your risk of heart disease.
Change your fats
Change the fats in your diet. Avoid saturated fats. Substitute olive oil for butter. All fats are high in calories so use them sparingly to avoid weight gain.
Also limit the following:
• Full-fat dairy products
• Fatty meats
• Partially hydrogenated vegetable oils
• Convenience or other prepared foods high in fat
Eat fruits and veggies
Eat plenty of produce. We recommend eating at least 3 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruits daily, depending on your calorie needs. Diets high in fruits and vegetables are linked to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk for heart disease.
Fiber up
Soluble fiber helps reduce cholesterol. Oatmeal, whole-grain bread, and other whole-grain foods are excellent sources of this nutrient.
Drink alcohol only in moderation
Women should limit alcohol to no more than 1 drink per day. That’s equivalent to 12 ounces of beer, 4 to 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits.
Women and Heart Health
Debunking Myths: Women and Heart Health
Myth: Heart disease is a man’s disease
Fact: Heart disease is kills more women than men. Heart disease is the cause of one out of every three deaths and is the leading cause of death for women.
Myth: Heart disease only happens to older women
Fact: Heart disease affects women of all ages. For younger women, the combination of birth control pills and smoking increases heart disease risks by 20 percent.
Myth: If women are fit they are not at risk
Fact: The risk for heart disease is not eliminated if you exercise regularly. Factors like cholesterol, eating habits, high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking directly affect risk.
Myth: Heart disease always has symptoms
Fact: The majority of women who die suddenly of coronary heart disease had no previous symptoms. Symptoms vary greatly between men and women. Women are often underdiagnosed or undertreated which can lead to higher mortality rates.
Myth: If heart disease runs in my family, I can’t do anything about it
Fact: Women with a family history of heart disease are at higher risk, but there’s tons that can be done to dramatically reduce risk. Women should discuss their personal risk factors with their healthcare provider and undergo regular screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and other heart disease risk factors.
Macular Degeneration
Your Vision is Important:
Preventing Age-Related Macular Degeneration
February is the month of love, and what better way to show love for yourself than by caring for your eyes? This month, let’s look at a crucial topic that affects many – Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
The Importance of Eye Health
Your vision plays a vital role in your daily life, and AMD is a condition that can impact it significantly. It primarily affects individuals aged 50 and above, making it essential to be proactive in understanding and addressing potential eye health concerns.
What is AMD?
AMD is a degenerative eye disease that affects the macula, a small but crucial part of the retina responsible for central vision. As we age, the risk of developing AMD increases, making it imperative to stay informed about its symptoms and preventive measures.
Preventive Measures You Can Take
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet:
- Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, such as leafy greens, fish, and colorful fruits. These can help protect your eyes from oxidative damage.
2. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays:
- Wear sunglasses that block harmful UV rays to reduce the risk of developing AMD and other eye conditions.
3. Quit Smoking:
- Smoking is a significant risk factor for AMD. Quitting smoking can lower your risk and improve your overall eye health.
4. Exercise Regularly:
- Engage in physical activity to promote overall health, including eye health. Regular exercise can lower the risk of AMD.
5. Manage Blood Pressure and Cholesterol:
- Keep these factors in check, as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels can contribute to the development and progression of AMD.
Taking Control with Direct Primary Care
At Roots Health DPC, we prioritize your overall well-being, including your eye health. Our Direct Primary Care services offer personalized and comprehensive healthcare that extends to preventive eye care. We believe in fostering a proactive approach to health, ensuring that you have the resources and support you need.
Why Choose Direct Primary Care?
- Personalized Care: Our focus is on you. Receive individualized attention and care that goes beyond a traditional healthcare setting.
- Accessible Services: Enjoy easy access to healthcare professionals, ensuring timely check-ups and addressing concerns promptly.
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Holistic Approach: We view health comprehensively. From routine check-ups to specialized care, our holistic approach includes preventive measures for conditions like AMD.
Take the First Step
This February, take the first step towards nurturing your vision and overall well-being. Learn more about Age-Related Macular Degeneration, explore preventive measures, and experience the benefits of Direct Primary Care at Roots Health Direct Primary Care.
The Health Care You Deserve
Uncovering the Source of Your Well-Being
Tired of healthcare that barely scratches the surface? Is your doctor treating symptoms without getting to the core of your health concerns? Ready for a more holistic approach?
Discover Roots Health DPC—a revolutionary, patient-centered practice committed to nourishing your mind, body, and spirit. With constant direct access to board-certified medical care and dedicated time to address the root cause of your symptoms, we redefine your healthcare experience.
In a system where the average office visit is a mere 7 minutes, why settle for fragmented care? At Roots Health DPC, your health takes center stage—the foundation for life on your terms.
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Quality Time: Engage in meaningful conversations with your physician to craft a personalized healthcare plan, considering every aspect of your health, environment, and lifestyle.
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Seamless Communication: Enjoy ongoing communication with your board-certified physician, easily adjusting your plan to meet evolving healthcare needs—unlimited access, both in-person and virtually.
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No Waiting. No Copays. Ever: Affordable, transparent pricing with a low monthly membership fee provides unlimited direct access. Collaborate as a team to achieve optimal health, benefiting from discounts on labs, medications, supplements, and imaging.
Radon Awareness Week
Unlocking the Hidden Danger: Radon Awareness Week
Did you know that anyone can be at risk of lung cancer due to prolonged exposure to radon? This odorless, invisible, and radioactive gas can accumulate in homes and buildings, posing a serious health threat. As we observe #RadonAwarenessWeek, it’s crucial to understand the impact and take steps to protect yourself.
Key Facts:
1. Radon claims over 21,000 lives annually, making it the second leading cause of lung cancer.
2. Shockingly, 1 in 15 homes in the United States harbors high radon levels.
3. The combined effects of radon and smoking are synergistic, heightening the risk of lung cancer.
Radon, a natural gas in outdoor air, seeps into homes, regardless of their age, construction, or location. Even if you have a basement or a well-sealed home, radon can build up. There’s no safe level of radon, so strive for the lowest possible exposure.
During #RadonAwarenessWeek, take action:
1. Test your home to determine if a radon reduction system is needed.
2. The EPA recommends installing a radon reduction system for levels higher than 4pCi/L.
Radon is the leading environmental cause of cancer in the U.S., but its deadly impact is preventable. By raising awareness and encouraging action to reduce radon levels in homes, buildings, and schools, we can save lives. Spread the word this #RadonAwarenessWeek and take a vital step towards a healthier future.
Cervical Health Awareness Month
Your Shield Against Cervical Cancer
For many women, the term “Pap smear” might evoke a mix of curiosity and uncertainty. However, understanding the importance of this simple test can empower you to take charge of your reproductive health.
What is a Pap Smear?
A Pap test, is a routine screening procedure used to detect any abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus.
Why is it crucial?
1. Early Detection Saves Lives: Cervical cancer develops slowly and the Pap smear is designed to catch these changes to prevent progression to cervical cancer.
2. Regular Screening for All Women: Women should begin Pap smear screenings around the age of 21 and continue at regular intervals. As women age, the frequency of screenings may change, and co-testing with HPV may be an option.
3. Simple Procedure: The Pap smear is a relatively simple and quick procedure performed during a pelvic exam with little risk involved.
4. Peace of Mind: Regular Pap smear results offer reassurance and enable prompt action if any abnormalities are detected.
In the realm of women’s health, the Pap smear stands as a powerful ally in the fight against cervical cancer. By prioritizing regular screenings you are taking proactive steps to safeguard your well-being. Your health is in your hands, and a Pap smear is a vital tool in maintaining it.
Empower yourself with knowledge and preventive care. Your future self will thank you.
Hypertension Insights and Actionable Steps
Healthier Heart and Happier You
Hypertension, High Blood Pressure, also known as the “silent killer” affects nearly half of American adults. There are lots of ways to manage high blood pressure and it can often be reversed through diet and lifestyle modification.
What Can You Do to Control High Blood Pressure?
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Quit smoking.
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Follow a heart-healthy diet
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Limit salt intake.
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Increase physical activity.
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Achieve a healthy weight.
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Limit alcohol intake.
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blood pressure
Why Your Blood Pressure Matters
Blood pressure is critical to our overall health as it effects all the organs of our body. When we leave high blood pressure unchecked… it can lead to stroke, heart disease, and kidney disease to name a few. Avoiding these complications from high blood pressure is simple once we understand what it is and how to manage it.
What Numbers Are Too High?
Blood pressure measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart is contracting and pumping (systolic) and the measurement when your heart is relaxed and filling (diastolic). An optimal reading is less than 140/90 mmHg and sometimes lower if you have other conditions.
KNOW YOUR NUMBERS
What Causes High Blood Pressure Readings?
Blood pressure can fluctuate based on several factors including: diet, stress, sleep, lifestyle, and exercise. It can also be affected by underlying medical conditions that you may not even know you have (kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, and heart/lung conditions to name a few). The key is to check your blood pressure and not ignore a high reading.
Gift of Peace of Mind
Give the Gift of Peace of Mind: Your Time is the Present
In the spirit of the season, give yourself and your family the gift of year-round peace of mind. Time is a precious, especially during the holidays. Managing health concerns shouldn’t add unnecessary stress to your life.
Your Time is Valuable
In the midst of holiday chaos, every minute counts. Balancing work, family, and unexpected health issues can feel like a never-ending juggle. As a working parent, I understand the challenges of carrying the mental load and strive to help you reclaim your time.
Immediate Health Support
Picture this: “My son has a sore throat and fever; I’ve reached out to his doctor’s office and am waiting for a call back.” Your health concerns should be addressed promptly. As your physician, I’m here to provide immediate answers to your health questions via text, allowing you to swiftly address concerns and get back to the joy of the season.
Effortless Healthcare Solutions
“My daughter cut open her foot. Urgent care or ER?” Waiting for a callback or spending hours in a waiting room is not an option for busy families. We handle these situations promptly, ensuring your family’s health is prioritized without unnecessary delays.
Streamlined Doctor Visits
“I’m constantly tired, but scheduling a doctor’s appointment is daunting.” We’ve simplified the process. Booking a convenient time that suits your schedule is all it takes – no waiting room hassles. This isn’t too good to be true; it’s a reality we offer year-round.
holiday stress
5 Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Season
I am at the point in my life where I Just want soak up and enjoy the holidays with my family as much as I can. I don’t want to spend time with any negative energy.
The following are by best tips for doing just that:
1. Adjust Expectations:
Don’t aim for perfection. Families evolve, traditions change. Feelings are not facts…focus on what truly matters and allow yourself the space to process those feelings.
Maintain Healthy Habits:
Keep basic routines intact to avoid holiday chaos. Prioritize:
- Sufficient sleep
- Balanced meals
- Moderate alcohol consumption
- Regular physical activity
- Any relaxation techniques: breathing, meditation, or yoga.
2. Prioritize Self-Care:
Carve out time for yourself first. Engage in activities that bring joy, be it a walk or getting a massage. This rejuvenating practice can give you the boost you need to handle holiday demands.
3. Learn to Say “No”:
It’s okay to decline invitations or activities beyond your capacity. Remember, ‘No’ is a complete sentence. If overwhelmed, remove less essential tasks from your agenda to free up time for more self-care.
4. Seek Support:
Reach out to trusted friends, family, or even a therapist. Utilize coping tools to process feelings. Remember, you’re never alone.
Causes, Treatments, and Complications
Heartburn: WHAT it is and WHY it happens
Heartburn, commonly known as indigestion, can occur after we eat. Acidic stomach contents can squeeze back up into the esophagus, causing reflux—a burning sensation behind the breastbone that we experience as heartburn.
What are Common Causes of Heartburn?
- Eating a large meal
- Excessive consumption of coffee or alcohol
- Pressure on stomach (from vigorous exercise after eating or advanced pregnancy)
How to deal with occasional heartburn?
For occasional heartburn in healthy individuals, simple measures such as taking antacids and avoiding lying down after a meal are often sufficient.
What if Heartburn is Persistent? A more targeted approach may be necessary.
- In Overweight People: heartburn can be improved through weight loss.
- Smoking cessation lowers symptoms of heartburn
- Avoiding certain foods that provoke heartburn like caffeine, alcohol, and fats.
- Elevating the head of the bed can improve symptoms
You should always speak to your physician about your symptoms and be evaluated for any complications
Are there any serious complications from heartburn?
Ongoing chronic esophageal exposure to gastric juices can lead to complications such as:
1. Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus
2. Ulceration: Bleeding, scarring, and stricture (narrowing) of the esophagus
3. Barrett’s esophagus: A pre-cancerous condition associated with an increased risk of lower esophagus cancer.
Habits
Habits: Directing Your Life Intentionally
Our brains are the most amazing organ. It organizes and integrates an incredible amount of data quickly… allowing us to operate on “auto-pilot” for much of our day. Our brains create well worn pathways so that we can do routine tasks without shifting our focus to them. How to harness the strength of this amazing gift and create the life we want? By understanding HOW to intentionally form our habits.
What is a habit?
Habits are behaviors we perform on a regular basis where some component of the behavior is considered “automatic.” Forming new habits requires repetition.
Developing desired healthy habits is something we can direct our brain to do.
Habits are pathways in the brain that have formed through repetition. The repetitive pattern starts with a cue from the environment which triggers a behavioral response and is reinforced with a reward. The well known Pavlov’s Experiment demonstrates the principle.
In order to create a new, healthy habit—or even to break a bad habit—you must be as intentional as possible with all three parts: cue, behavior, reward. Manipualting our environment to introduce cues to intentionally associate with a desired behavior and reinforce with a reward is the foundation.
Changing your life habits can be simpler than you may think. With a few tricks, you can gain or lose any habits you’d like.
Understanding these tips will help you stick to healthy habits and break bad ones as you work toward your health and wellness goals. Focus on the cue.
In order to create new habits, we need to focus on the cue, NOT the behavior.
Let’s say you want to start practice daily meditation. Instead of focusing on time meditating, focus on developing the routine around the practice of meditation.
Choose a cue that already occurs regularly in your daily life, such as drinking morning coffee. While developing your meditation habit, focus effort on getting ready to meditate while you brew the coffee. Meditate for 2 minutes. Reward yourself with the coffee afterwards.
Develop the habit of prepping for meditation. Don’t focus on the behavior… you can start with 2 minutes and gradually build up to your targeted time.
After a while, you’ll start to notice that when you get up to get coffee (environmental cue), it takes little to no effort to mediate (habitual response).
You may even start to look forward to it…and feel something in your life is off when you do not meditate…. And that’s the power of habit!
HABITS VS GOALS – Don’t confuse habits with goals.
Goals are great, but putting habits in place that move you toward your goals are key. The goal is the destination and the habit is the journey. Build healthy habits by starting today.
Sore throat
Soothing a Sore Throat…. Be in the Know this Winter.
Pharyngitis, commonly known as a sore throat, is a symptom that signals an infection involving the back of the throat.
Signs of pharyngitis include:
- Sore, dry, or scratchy throat
- Pain with swallowing
- Redness/Inflammation of the throat
Physical exam
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pharyngitis, your doctor will check your throat looking for white patches, swelling, and redness and check for swollen lymph nodes in your neck. You should report any fever or cough as well.
If your doctor suspects that you have strep throat, they will likely take a rapid strep test in the office which can give you a result for strep throat in a few minutes. In some cases, a swab culture is sent to a lab for further testing.
Blood tests
If another cause of your pharyngitis is suspected, your doctor may order blood work looking for specific infections, such as mononucleosis or they may perform a COVID or flu test.
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drinking plenty of fluids/ pedialyte popsicles
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gargling with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt per 8 ounces of water)
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using a humidifier
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resting until you feel better
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throat lozenges can sooth pain
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avoid sharing food, drinks, and eating utensils
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avoid individuals who are sick
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wash your hands often, especially before eating and after coughing or sneezing
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use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
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avoid smoking and inhaling secondhand smoke
tips to prevent eczema flares
Winter is Coming:
5 Tips to Combat Dry Sensitive Skin!
What is the largest organ in your body? SKIN! It is a protective shield and plays a crucial role in fending off infections. When this defensive layer is compromised… you can develop dryness, discomfort, and swelling. These are indicators that your skin is in need of care! To steer clear of such problems, adhere to these 5 recommendations to prevent flares…
Avoid Irritants
Highly sensitive skin is prone to irritation with perfumes, dyes, and chemicals found in everyday household products. The trick is to use hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products. Minimize flare-ups and itching by using fragrance-free soaps, shampoos, and detergents.
Be Temperature Aware
Pay attention to temperature and humidity. Take shorter baths with luke-warm temperature water. Avoid exposure to extreme heat/cold and wear 100% cotton allowing skin to breath. This helps with overheating and excessive sweating which can trigger a flare-up.
Moisturize
Unscented fragrance free moisturizers such as Cerave should be used regularly. Aquaphor can be used for tougher areas.
Supplement with Vitamin D
Vitamin D supplementation and direct sun exposure can lessen the severity of eczema symptoms and support your skin barrier and immune system. Vitamin D supplementation is a safe and tolerable therapy.
Partner with your physician
With eczema-friendly skin care and trigger management you can avoid eczema flares. Create a custom-tailored treatment plan that can include topical medications, specialized dressings, oral medications, or UV light therapy each of which has unique risks/benefits.
HPV: Do you know the FACTS?
HPV
70-80% of women will have Human Papilomaviurs, HPV, at some point in their lifetime. If it’s so common…. why does it matter?
So what can you do about it?
Putting CARE back in Health Care
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Most women younger than 30 do not get HPV testing, because the immune system often eradicates HPV. However, if their pap is abnormal an HPV test may be indicated.
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Women 30 years or older, can be offered HPV test and Pap together to screen for cervical cancer.
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Although the HPV vaccine protects against many of the HPV types that cause cervical cancer, it does not prevent all HPV types that cause cervical cancer.
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You might not be fully protected if you did not get all the vaccine doses (or at the recommended ages).
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You might not fully benefit from the vaccine if you were vaccinated after getting one or more types of HPV.
Open Enrollment is Here
What Your Open Enrollment is Missing!
Year after year, we pay more for our health insurance and receive less. Frustrated and overwhelmed trying to obtain the care needed and getting it covered by insurance… many have resigned themselves to the status quo. But we all deserve better. With open enrollment around the corner… now you have another choice.
Can you imagine if getting the care you needed was as easy as sending a text message to your doctor? What if you had an advocate to help you navigate and ensure your well-being was the top priority. We are putting the care back into healthcare and giving you all the power to make choices that will benefit your health and well-being. It’s time to get what you are paying for.
Direct Primary Care eliminates the hassle of traditional insurance-based care. With a low monthly fee, you gain direct access to the vast majority of your health care services. Enjoy more time with your physician, same-day and next-day appointments. No copays or hidden fees. Work directly with your DPC physician to obtain tremendous savings on all medications, labs, and imaging.
This year during open enrollment, let’s look at ALL your options.
Don’t miss your opportunity this time around. Join the Roots Health DPC family today!
Early detection saves lives
Breast Cancer Warning Signs
Breast Cancer Screening is for women without symptoms. However, if you notice any signs of breast cancer you should see your doctor for an evaluation promptly regardless of when you were last screened.
The warning signs of Breast Cancer:
1. If you notice a lump that feels firm or fixed in the breast or underarm area.
2. Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast skin.
3. Change in the size or shape of the breast including dimpling or puckering of skin.
4. Nipple retraction or change in position of nipple.
5. Discharge from your nipple.
Although the vast majority of breast cancers are found through abnormal mammograms, up to 30% of breast cancer patients present with a mass that occurs between mammograms.