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Give yourself the gift of TIME

2023-09-25T12:57:16+00:00September 25th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Your TIME is VALUABLE

YOUR TIME is the most valuable resource you have. Give yourself the gift of TIME.
You work hard to balance time between your career and your family. When one of your own has a health concern that “pops up” or just needs to be scheduled …. trying to figure out the how, where, and when to get the issue addressed can literally take hours, and even days, from your routine.
I get it. I’m a working mom and I know what it is like to balance work and family, to “carry” the mental load, and then…. to put “one more thing” on your plate. My job is to take that stress off your plate.
“My son has a sore throat and fever…. I have placed a call to his doctor’s office and am waiting for a call back….”
When you have medical concerns, the last thing you need is to pile on more stress. Let me help! My patients reach out to me, their physician, directly via text at any time of day. They get answers to the questions they have about their health immediately and can take the next steps and get back to their busy lives.

We also offer telemedicine so you can get care wherever you are.

Explore our Services
“My daughter cut open her foot. Do I take her to urgent care or ER and wait to be seen?”
I don’t know anyone who has time to wait around for a return call from the doctor’s office or wait into a waiting room. We take care of this for you…. without the wait!
“I am experiencing a constant feeling of being tired… but I just put off going to see the doctor because it is so hard to get an appointment and the visit takes up half my day.”
Let us make going to the doctor as easy as booking a time that works perfectly for your schedule and then coming in to be seen. We don’t have a “waiting room.”

THIS IS NOT too good to be true!

See for yourself how Direct Primary Care works… and get all your questions answered

Schedule a free initial consultation with us today!

What you need to know about Sleep Apnea

2023-09-18T12:40:24+00:00September 18th, 2023|Uncategorized|

SLEEP APNEA

Did you know that daytime fatigue, trouble concentrating, headaches, and many other symptoms can be caused by sleep apnea?

Learn about sleep apnea and signs that it might be affecting your health.

Sleep apnea is commonly under-diagnosed . Education is key.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Snoring is the most obvious sign and more common in men. Other signs and symptoms of OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) include:
  • Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
  • Restlessness during sleep, frequent nighttime awakenings
  • Sudden awakenings with a sensation of gasping or choking
  • Dry mouth or sore throat upon awakening
  • Cognitive impairment, such as trouble concentrating, forgetfulness or irritability
  • Mood disturbances (often dismissed as depression or anxiety which can co-exist with sleep apnea)
  • Night sweats
  • Frequent nighttime urination
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Headaches

Diagnosis and treatment for sleep apnea are extremely important for your long term health.

Reach out to your physician today.

How is sleep apnea diagnosed?

Speak with your primary care physician about your symptoms suggestive of sleep apnea. An overnight sleep study can objectively evaluate for sleep apnea.

How is sleep apnea treated?
The treatment for sleep apnea is extremely individualized and based on the underlying cause. Conservative therapies targeting the underlying cause may include:
  • Weight loss
  • Sleep position changes
  • Treatment for underlying sinus or nasal congestion
  • CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines or other mechanical therapy
  • Dental appliances that keep the airway open
  • Surgical procedures are usually reserved for unresponsive cases

Want a physician who has enough time to fully evaluate your health concerns and get to the root cause of your symptoms? Schedule a FREE “Meet and Greet” at Roots Health DPC.

SCHEDULE A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION TODAY!

Discover Health Sharing Plans (HSP)

2023-09-04T13:25:27+00:00September 4th, 2023|Adults, Community, Direct Primary Care, Health Care, Public Health, Uncategorized|

Navigating Health Care Alternatives:

Health Sharing Plans and Direct Primary Care

Insurance costs are increasing and have become a growing source of stress for individuals and families.  Many are not aware there is another alternative—and it’s called health care sharing plans. Health sharing plans (HSP), also known as medical cost sharing, can save you and your family a lot of money on healthcare. We review the basics of these plans and explore how they differ from traditional insurance coverage.

WE are doing health care differently at Roots Health Direct Primary Care…..

Find out more

Health Sharing Plans (HSP): How It Works

Members in an HSP “share” medical costs. As part of an HSP, you are responsible for paying an initial unshareable amount (IUA) each month (like a premium). There is also an “annual unshared amount” (like a deductible) that your medical expenses must exceed before the plan shares your expenses.

Health care sharing can be great for people who:

  • Are generally in good health
  • Are not eligible for a tax credit based on income
  • Lack access to insurance through an employer or government program
  • Only want/need catastrophic coverage
  • Can’t afford current health insurance premiums

HSP vs Health Insurance

The Pros:

  • HCP counts as insurance under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), even though they are not insurance. This allows for affordable healthcare benefits while avoiding the tax penalty for going uninsured.
  • HSP are provided at a much lower monthly cost.
  • The annual “unshared amount” is much, much lower than deductibles for insurance plans.
  • You have any choice of provider. There are no network requirements. If you pay out-of-pocket, health sharing plans reimburse your expense.

The Cons:

  • Health care sharing plans are not required to cover pre-existing conditions at the time of enrollment such as cancer, diabetes, or smoking. Those who have them may be declined membership or won’t have the conditions fully covered for a year or more.
  • Health care sharing also doesn’t typically cover the essential health benefits like wellness exams or mental health counseling.

HSP and Direct Primary Care work well together

The DPC will meet vast majority of a person’s primary health care needs and any urgent care needs for a low monthly fee without copays or deductibles. DPC will ensure access to high quality low cost laboratories, medications , and consultations with specialists. You receive higher quality care with better access to your physician without waiting.

Experience Comprehensive Care Now at Roots Health DPC

schedule introductory initial complimentary consultation

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.

Experience Direct Primary Care (DPC) firsthand!

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.

Discover the Transformation

Public Health Epidemic of Gun Violence

2023-06-05T14:45:31+00:00June 5th, 2023|Adults, Uncategorized|

Gun Violence – A Public Health Crisis

Sadly, firearms are the leading cause of death in children in the United States. These deaths are completely preventable and occur at a rate more than 5x higher than drownings.

June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month.

TOP TIPS for PREVENTING FIREARM DEATHS

As with any health-related problem, prevention through education is a critical component. Did you know that firearms are present in 1/3 of households with children?

  • The best way to keep children safe is NOT to have a gun in the home.
  • If it is necessary to keep a gun in the home, safe storage is critical. Guns should be kept unloaded and ammunition should be stored separately. Both should be locked and inaccessible.
  • Parents should speak to caregivers in homes where young children are visiting/playing about guns in caregivers’ homes.
  • Talk to older kids about guns and safety.

At Roots Health DPC, we know that safety is part of health and well-being. We are rebuilding health care and are working toward whole community wellness.

LEARN MORE

9 Critical Warning Signs of Violence

In almost every documented case of active shooters, there were warning signs. In 4 out of 5 school shootings at least one other person had knowledge of attackers plan but failed to report it.

  1. Suddenly withdrawing from friends, family and activities (including online or via social media)
  2. Bullying, especially if targeted towards differences in race, religion, gender or sexual orientation
  3. Excessive irritability, lack of patience, or becoming angry quickly
  4. Experiencing chronic loneliness or social isolation
  5. Expressing persistent thoughts of harming themselves or someone else
  6. Making direct threats toward a place, another person, or themselves
  7. Bragging about access to guns or weapons
  8. Recruiting accomplices or audiences for an attack
  9. Directly expressing a threat as a plan

Reporting warning signs of violence is critical to decreasing the risk of gun violence in our community.

Advocacy to protect children from gun-violence must take place at a national level to have meaningful impact. Basic measure such as stopping assault weapon sales and advocating for high-capacity magazine limits, alongside ammunition regulation, required background checks, and increasing gun manufacturer liability will be critical.

At Roots Health DPC we are “staying in our lane” to improve the health and wellness of our community. To learn more about how we do health care differently… join us today.

SCHEDULE A FREE COMPLIMETARY CONSULTATION

Mental Health Awareness Month

2023-05-29T14:06:01+00:00May 29th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Mental Health, Uncategorized|

Is It Stress or Anxiety?

Mental Health Awareness Month

Everyone experiences stress, and sometimes that stress can feel overwhelming.

You may be at risk for an anxiety disorder if it feels like you can’t manage the stress and if the symptoms of your stress:

– Interfere with your everyday life.

– Cause you to avoid doing things.

– Seem to be always present.

Searching for a health care experience that is personalized, convenient, and comprehensive? Roots Health DPC has redefined the way health care is being delivered.

LEARn MOre

Practice Self-Care for your Mental Health: Build a toolbox full of healthy ways to cope

Simple, everyday actions:

–schedule quiet time for meditation, yoga, or reading

–spend a few minutes in nature, getting out to exercise, or playing a favorite song can help you feel grounded

–stick to a sleep routine to ensure enough sleep

–keep a journal

–connect with others in your community

Do you avoid going to the doctor because it’s a hassle? At Roots Health DPC we have made it simple. Our focus is on you. We provide the care you deserve without the hassle. Set up a complimentary session to meet Dr. Diaz and learn more.

GET INITIAL COMPLMENTARY CONSULTATION TODAY!

Tips for Early Detection of Skin Cancer

2023-05-15T14:01:40+00:00May 15th, 2023|Adults, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health, Uncategorized|

What are the skin changes you should not ignore? Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Knowing how to do a skin self-exam and what the warning signs are for melanoma are the key for decreasing risk. Follow these tips to increase your chances of spotting skin cancer early, when it’s most treatable.

How to perform a skin self-exam

Examine your body in a full-length mirror-Examine your body front and back in a mirror, then look at the right and left sides with your arms raised.

Look at your underarms, forearms, and palms-Bend your elbows and look carefully at your forearms, underarms, and palms.

Look at your legs, between toes, and soles of your feet-Look at the backs of your legs and feet, the spaces between your toes, and the soles of your feet.

Use a hand mirror to examine your neck and scalp-Examine the back of your neck and scalp with a hand mirror. Part your hair for a closer look at your scalp.

Use a hand mirror to check your back and buttocks-Finally, check your back and buttocks with a hand mirror.

If you notice any new spots on your skin, spots that are different from others, or spots that are changing, itching or bleeding, make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist.

Get your FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING IN MAY with board certified dermatologist, Dr Kiracofe!

CLICK HERE TO GET A FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING EXAM

Remember the “ABCDE rule”

Note changes in moles or birthmarks that can be warning signs of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

A-Asymmetry where one half looks different from the other

B-Borders of the mole that are irregular or not sharply demarcated

C-Color is varied from one area to another

D-Diameter over 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser)

E-Evolving or changing in size shape or color

Are you looking for High Quality health care with a board certified physician that you know and trust? Set up an initial complimentary consultation to learn more about how we always put patients first.

get initial complimentary consultation today!

Preventing heart disease is better than curing it.

2023-04-24T13:49:17+00:00April 24th, 2023|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Uncategorized|

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.

Are YOU at RISK? Use this FREE CALCULATOR

find out NOW

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 recommned 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.

Seeking a physician who can provide ample time for discussing all options? Contact us today as we are enrolling a limited number of new patients.

FREE MEET AND GREET

Strategies for Overcoming Heart Disease

2023-04-17T14:15:19+00:00April 17th, 2023|Adults, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health, Uncategorized|

A Woman’s Guide to Beating Heart Disease

Few women think heart disease is their greatest health threat. That thought could not be further from the truth. Unfortunately, it’s the nation’s number one killer, and women are its prime target. Over one-third of the women who die in the U.S. each year die of heart disease. In fact, more women die of heart disease each year than breast cancer.

The risk of heart attack and stroke increases with age. Women can start protecting themselves early to avoid heart disease.

Knowing your risk

Things that put women at risk include:

• Being postmenopausal

• Having had a hysterectomy

• History of or currently using birth control pills

• Being pregnant and having complications including diabetes or pre-eclampsia

Credit to: My Happy Doctor

Join us at the Community Health and Wellness Fair Sunday April 23, 2023, in Oak Park, where Roots Health DPC will be providing free screening for heart disease.

JOIN US

The following things put both women and men at risk for developing heart disease:

• Personal history of heart disease or stroke

• Age over 55

• Family history of heart disease

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Diabetes

• Past or current smoker

• Getting little or no exercise

• Obesity

• High-stress life

Knowing risk factors is half the battle towards beating heart disease. You can lower your risk of heart disease through preventative measures. Keep an eye open for our blog on prevention next week where we will do a deep dive on how to prevent heart disease.

Are you looking for a physician who has time to discuss all your options with you? We are enrolling a limited number of new patients and would love to hear from you today.

Schedule an initial complimentary consultation

debunking Myths about Heart Health

2023-04-10T13:46:57+00:00April 10th, 2023|Uncategorized|

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.

At Roots Health DPC we know how frustrating the health care experience is today. That’s why we are 100% committed to making it simple and easy for you and your family. Schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Diaz today.

FREE MEET AND GREET

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