Research tells us that many common medical conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers are among the leading causes of preventable mortality in the United States. Research also shows that a strong preventive care approach can have a very positive impact on longevity. At my private concierge medical practice on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, I create customized preventive plans to address specific hereditary concerns along with a broad approach to uncover more commonly known conditions.
What is preventive medicine?
Many conditions have varying prognoses depending on the stage at which the disease is detected. For example, many types of cancer have different “stages,” and they all typically carry a worse prognosis at higher stages. This same concept holds true for diabetes and hypertension: the later they are diagnosed, the greater the risk of damage to other organs. Early detection, through the use of preventive medicine, is one key to longevity.
In considering your individualized plan for prevention, I take a proactive and holistic approach to your healthcare. Preventive medicine detects treatable conditions before they have the chance to impact your longevity or your quality of life.
What does preventive medicine involve?
Your preventive medicine plan changes with you from year to year as your health needs and goals evolve. The essential components of preventive medicine include:
Wellness exams
Your annual wellness exam is the cornerstone of your healthcare. During your wellness exam, I review your entire medical history, family history, medications, allergies, habits, lifestyle, and anything else that might be important. During the visit, I will perform a physical examination, order laboratory evaluations, and an EKG.
Screening Tests
Based on a number of factors including family history, age, and other risk factors, further specialized screening may be recommended. This can include, for example, dermatologic evaluation, gynecologic evaluation, colonoscopy, endoscopy, or calcium score of the heart.
Vaccinations
Some vaccines are recommended in a timed manner, like an annual flu shot. Other vaccines may or may not provide lifetime coverage. I check for common illnesses that can be easily prevented with routine vaccinations. Using CDC guidelines, vaccines I provide include annual flu vaccine, Pneumovax, Prevnar 13, DTAP, Shingrix, typhoid, yellow fever, meningitis, and Gardisil. I also have experience in both pre- and post-travel medicine and can prepare you for a trip abroad.
Why is preventive medicine important?
Preventive medicine is important because it’s often the best defense you have against chronic disease. Think of your health as an investment in your future: take care of yourself now to give yourself the best tomorrow possible.
You can help me take good care of you by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Eat right, get plenty of sleep and exercise, and find healthy ways to relieve stress naturally.
I am your partner in lifelong good health. As your personal concierge doctor, you can trust me for care that goes well beyond just treating your symptoms. Count on me for preventive care that improves your longevity and your quality of life for years to come.
To schedule your comprehensive preventive wellness exam, call my office today.