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Gift of Peace of Mind

2023-12-25T14:00:26+00:00December 25th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health, Uncategorized|

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.

Make the gift of peace of mind last all year long. Discover the ease of Direct Primary Care, making healthcare straightforward and stress-free.

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.

This season, take a step towards a healthier, stress-free year. Schedule a free consultation with us and experience the gift of peace of mind.

Causes, Treatments, and Complications

2023-12-11T13:21:12+00:00December 11th, 2023|Adults, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

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)

We’re putting CARE back in healthcare.

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

Looking for an Individualized Wellness Approach?

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.

Sore throat

2023-11-20T14:17:53+00:00November 20th, 2023|Adults, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health, Uncategorized|

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
What causes Pharyngitis?
The most common cause for sore throat is a virus (such as the common cold, influenza, mononucleosis, yes …even covid). Viral infections don’t respond to antibiotics, and treatment is only necessary to help relieve symptoms.
Less commonly, pharyngitis is caused by a bacterial infection. These infections require antibiotics. The most common bacterial infection is strep throat. It is imperative not to leave strep throat untreated, especially in children.
How is pharyngitis diagnosed?

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.

Throat culture

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.

We are putting CARE back in Healthcare

What can you do at home?
If a virus is causing your pharyngitis, there are things you can do at home that can help relieve symptoms:
  • drinking plenty of fluids/ pedialyte popsicles
  • gargling with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt per 8 ounces of water)
  • using a humidifier
  • resting until you feel better
  • throat lozenges can sooth pain
Medical treatment
For pain and fever relief, consider taking over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen after speaking with your doctor.
If the infection is caused by strep or another bacterial infection, antibiotics are necessary. Amoxicillin and penicillin are the most commonly prescribed treatments for strep throat. It is important that you take the entire course of antibiotics for strep throat to prevent complications such as rheumatic fever.
How can you prevent pharyngitis?
  • avoid sharing food, drinks, and eating utensils
  • avoid individuals who are sick
  • wash your hands often, especially before eating and after coughing or sneezing
  • use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
  • avoid smoking and inhaling secondhand smoke
When to Seek Care
Let your doctor know right away if you are having a sore throat so that they can guide you on the next steps for evaluation of cause and best treatment options.

Looking for a doctor that you can text to reach quickly?

HPV: Do you know the FACTS?

2023-11-07T08:35:42+00:00November 6th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

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?

HPV, is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HPV can cause cervical cancer.

So what can you do about it?

Putting CARE back in Health Care

What are the symptoms of HPV?
Most people with HPV do not have any symptoms which is why women need Pap smears.
HPV can sometimes cause genital warts. Some strains can cause cervical cancer.
Who should get tested for HPV at the time of their pap smear?
  • 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.
  • Women 30 years or older, can be offered HPV test and Pap together to screen for cervical cancer.
How can I prevent HPV?
Get the HPV vaccine early, before age 26.
Avoid sexual contact and limit number of total partners.
Do I still need a Pap test if I got the HPV vaccine?
Yes. This is why:
  • 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.
  • You might not be fully protected if you did not get all the vaccine doses (or at the recommended ages).
  • You might not fully benefit from the vaccine if you were vaccinated after getting one or more types of HPV.

Looking for a doctor you know and trust that is easy to access?

Open Enrollment is Here

2023-10-30T14:03:30+00:00October 30th, 2023|Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health, Special Offer, Uncategorized|

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 (DPC) DISCOVER THE BENEFITS

At Roots Health DPC, we help patients plan ahead, calculate projected yearly expenses, and choose an option that will save on out-of-pocket insurance costs while providing higher quality personalized care.

 

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.

Choose the best plan to meet your healthcare needs:
It’s your money.
It’s your healthcare.
It’s your choice.

Obtain the health care you deserve.

Don’t miss your opportunity this time around. Join the Roots Health DPC family today!

Early detection saves lives

2023-10-23T13:30:48+00:00October 23rd, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

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.

Our patients have unlimited access. Anything. Anytime. Anywhere.

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.

Being proactive in your health choices improves your well-being.

Your Breast Cancer Screening Plan

2023-10-16T12:52:45+00:00October 16th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care|

Breast Cancer Awareness Month – Screening

One out of eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Do you know which screening test is best and when to start screening for breast cancer?

We are fostering awareness and prioritizing breast health.

There are many different screening tests for breast cancer and are varying recommendations from different organizations. Education with individualized planning (based on your personal risk for breast cancer) can help determine the best screening test for you.

-Mammography is the most common screening test for breast cancer
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of your breasts and can find cancer early.
Different experts have varying advice for when to initiate screening and how frequently to screen average-risk women ages 40 to 49. Everyone agrees that minimum screening should occur at least every 2 years between ages of 50-74.
For average-risk women screening mammography can be performed every one to two years based on patient preference.
-Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to screen women who have a high risk of breast cancer
MRI is a procedure that uses a magnet, radio waves, and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures. MRI does not use any x-rays and there is no exposure to radiation.
–Ultrasound is used in women with moderately increased risk factors (based on breast density, reproductive history, and hormonal history), breast ultrasound in conjunction with mammogram or a MRI can be considered on an individual basis.

Empower Your Breast Health: Discover the Best Screening Options

Breast Cancer Awareness

2023-10-09T15:41:49+00:00October 9th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Many of us have been touched by knowing someone with breast cancer. It is, after all, is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and leading cause of cancer death in women.

We are raising awareness and prioritizing breast health.

Education is the Key to Prevention
Know the risk factors associated with an INCREASED risk for breast cancer:
  • Hormonal factors influence your risk for breast cancer. Speak with your physician about your personal risk associated with hormonal therapies.
  • Reproductive factors associated with a higher breast cancer risk include earlier onset of menstruation, not giving birth or having first child later in life, and a late menopause.
  • Family history and genetic mutations. The risk of breast cancer is affected by the number of first-degree female relatives diagnosed with breast cancer and the age at which they were diagnosed.
  • The highest breast cancer risk occurs among White women (although it remains he most common cancer among women of every major ethnic/racial group).
Know how to DECREASE your risk for breast cancer:
  • Breastfeeding. For every 12 months of breastfeeding there is an approximate 4% reduction in the relative risk of breast cancer.
  • Increased physical activity at all ages lowers risk.
  • Routine screening and regular self-breast exams

Empower yourself to take proactive steps for your breast health and well-being.

Affordable Medications

2023-08-28T12:51:05+00:00August 28th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Prescription Costs, Uncategorized|

Are Medications Affordable?

Medications do not need to be expensive.

Out-of-pocket costs for medications have skyrocketed.  We know patients are sick of trying to figure out how to get medications at a reasonable cost.  At Roots Health DPC, we are making medications easily affordable for our patients. How?

We buy medications at wholesale cost – and pass that value to our patients…without marking them up. We remove the middleman, pharmacy benefit managers/retail pharmacies, that come between patients and their medications. We have effectively lowered the cost of prescriptions by 50% to 90% for our patients.

Here are Just a few Examples of Medications for Under $5/month

Metformin

Ibuprofen

Lisinopril

Amlodipine

Sertraline/Zoloft

Lovastatin

Sumatriptan/Imitrex

Loratadine/Claritin

We’re rewriting the script on healthcare by offering medications directly to you at discounted rates.

A Simple Solution for a “Complex” Problem

DPC stands for Direct Primary Care – we deliver health care services, including medications, directly to our patients. We provide medications at discounted rates because we know everyone deserves fair pricing on the medications they require to stay healthy. We are uniquely qualified to partner with our patients to determine which medications will best treat their medical conditions and ensure they receive those medications at a reasonable price.

Learn more about how Roots Health DPC is transforming health care for the better.

Retinoids: Your Skin Care Essential

2023-08-21T13:14:56+00:00August 21st, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Health Care, Public Health|

Skin Care Routines: The Lowdown on Retinoids

As we age, collagen production slows… causing wrinkles and signs of aging. Eating a diet rich in anti-oxidants, staying hydrated, using daily facial sunscreen and moisturizer are all critical components for a healthy skin care routine. Today we look at retinoids as a basic foundation for anti-aging skin care routines.

What are retinoids?

A derivative of vitamin A, retinoids can tackle everything from fine lines and pigmentation to acne. They achieve this by boosting the turnover rate of skin cells. Retinoids accelerate the rate of skin cell division and new cell growth which helps thicken the top layer. Retinols and other retinoids also work deep in the skin’s dermis layer to stimulate collagen and elastin production. These skin proteins naturally decrease with time, leading to thinning skin and other visible signs of aging. Boosting their production, then, allows retinoids to offer pro-aging support.

What’s Retinol?

When it comes to retinol and retinoids, plenty of people get a little confused — but with good reason. These two anti-aging ingredients aren’t entirely different. In fact, retinol is a sub-type of retinoid.

From reducing the appearance of wrinkles to easing the effects of sun damage retinoids can offer plenty of skin benefits. Retinoids most often describe more powerful prescription products, while retinol generally refers to weaker over-the-counter (OTC) formulas. OTC formulas tend to be less drying but they are still effective… if used consistently over long periods of time.

Feeling confident in our skin is an important part of well-being. At Roots Health DPC we support our patients on their wellness journey.

Should you use retinoid or retinol?

Before deciding, you’ll want to consider your skin type and the severity of the problem you’re trying to treat. Retinols are generally recommended for dry skin as they tend to be less drying and often are formulated with hydration ingredients.

Side effects of retinoids including irritation, redness, burning suggest an overly aggressive routine and can occur if you do not “ease your way” into retinoid use by starting slowly.

Contraindications to all retinoids include pregnancy, lactating, or trying to conceive.

How to use retinoids?

WHEN to put them into your skin care routine: at night after washing with a gentle cleanser. Start 3 nights per week and increase to daily after a few weeks if your skin can tolerate.

HOW to apply: use a pea-size amount when face is dry. Apply moisturizer afterward to avoid irritation. Using sunscreen on a daily basis is a MUST while applying retinoids.

ANYTHING ELSE? Check the ingredient list of your other skin care products, as retinoids can interact with other formulas and should not be used with benzoyl peroxide for example.

Combining retinoids with ethyl alcohol or acidic products, can dry out your skin and lead to redness and irritation.

If you have dry skin, creamier formulas can offer more hydration. If you have normal, oily, or combination skin, you might prefer a thinner gel consistency.

We are accepting a limited number of new patients.

© Copyright 2020 Roots-MD LLC, dba Roots Health DPC
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