Preventative Care and a New Patient Visit 

It is estimated that 1 in 3 American adults have high blood pressure or pre-diabietes and 1 in 6 American adults have high cholesterol levels! Given the prevalence of these risk factors, according to the American Heart Association, about 48% of American adults will have some form of cardiovascular disease which includes heart disease and strokes. 

Health screening plays a crucial role in preventive healthcare by enabling early detection, identification, and management of various health conditions before they progress to more serious stages. By undergoing regular health screenings, individuals can benefit from early intervention, which can lead to better treatment outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and improved quality of life. These screenings provide valuable information about an individual’s health status, risk factors for diseases, and potential areas for lifestyle modifications or medical interventions. Ultimately, health screenings empower individuals to take proactive steps towards maintaining their health and well-being, promoting longevity and overall vitality.

MedBerry Clinic focuses on preventative care and health screening to ensure our patients live a long and healthy life. Our goal is to prevent stroke and heart disease in our patients, not just to treat numbers and values. 

A primary care visit typically involves several components aimed at assessing your overall health and addressing any immediate concerns. Depending on when or if you had a previous visit with a doctor, MedBerry Clinic will work with you to ensure your ongoing well-being. Below is what you can generally expect during a new primary care visit: 

1. Medical History Review: Your doctor will likely start by asking you about your medical history, including any past illnesses, surgeries, medications you’re currently taking, and any chronic conditions you may have.
2. Vital Signs Check: They will check your vital signs, including your blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature.
3. Physical Examination: A physical examination is often conducted to assess your overall health. This may involve examining your heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, and other relevant body parts.
4. Discussion of Symptoms or Concerns: Your doctor will ask about any symptoms you’re experiencing or specific concerns you have regarding your health. They will listen attentively and ask follow-up questions to better understand your situation.
5. Health Risk Assessment: Depending on your age, lifestyle, and medical history, your doctor may conduct assessments for various health risks such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or cancer.
6. Screening Tests: Your doctor may recommend certain screening tests based on your age, gender, and risk factors. These tests may include blood tests, urine tests, and screenings for conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, or certain cancers.
7. Immunization Review: Your doctor may review your immunization history and recommend any vaccinations that are due or overdue.
8. Health Education and Counseling: Your doctor may provide guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing chronic conditions, or addressing specific health concerns. This may include advice on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and preventive care.
9. Medication Management: If you’re taking any medications, your doctor will review them to ensure they’re appropriate and discuss any potential side effects or interactions.
10. Referrals or Follow-Up: Depending on your needs, your doctor may refer you to specialists for further evaluation or treatment. They may also schedule a follow-up visit to monitor your progress or address any ongoing issues.

It’s important to communicate openly with your doctor during the visit, asking questions and providing any relevant information about your health history and current symptoms. This helps ensure that you receive personalized care tailored to your individual needs.

Prioritizing health screenings is an invaluable investment in one’s well-being and longevity. By staying proactive and vigilant through regular screenings, individuals can identify potential health concerns early on, allowing for timely intervention and management. Remember, prevention is key in maintaining optimal health, and health screenings serve as a vital tool in this endeavor. MedBerry Clinic is committed to prioritizing your health by embracing the power of health screenings and working closely with you as a whole person, to safeguard your well-being for years to come.

Luke B. Berry MD

The MedBerry Network 

Medical Director 

MedBerry Health PLLC