3 Of The Top Reasons Adults Visit Medical Clinics
Why do adults visit medical clinics? Whether you're healthy or sick, physician clinics can help you with a variety of medical, physical, and mental health needs. If you currently don't have a primary care physician (PCP) and aren't sure why you might need to choose a health care provider, take a look at the top reasons to visit a clinic.
Wellness Visit
If you feel fine, does this mean you don't need to visit the doctor? Even though you may not feel sick and don't have preexisting medical conditions, you still need to schedule an appointment with a PCP. A check-up, also known as a wellness visit, provides healthy adults with the preventative medical services they need to stay in top shape and avoid the risks of potentially serious diseases.
Some common chronic conditions may go unnoticed. Hypertension (high blood pressure) affects nearly 116 million Americans, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even though chronic high blood pressure can raise the risk of stroke and heart disease, many adults have no symptoms.
Hypertension screening and other similar preventative tests or exams can help you to get an early diagnosis and the treatment that you need. Along with hypertension, your new PCP can check you for high cholesterol, diabetes, and other diseases during a wellness visit. These types of screenings may require a physical examination, in-office testing, imaging studies, or bloodwork.
Upper Respiratory Symptoms
Gone are the days when congestion, a sore throat, and a cough almost always equaled the common cold. Even though you may not have scheduled a doctor's appointment for upper respiratory symptoms in the past, you now know the importance of ruling out other illnesses—such as Covid-19 or the flu.
If you have cold-like symptoms but aren't sure if you really have a cold or something else, contact your PCP. Medical clinics may see patients with potential Covid-19 cases either in the office or via a telemedicine visit. It's important to call the clinic and ask about the office's Covid-19 policies before you go to an in-person appointment. The clinic's staff can review the office's policies with you and provide you with next-step instructions.
Mental Health Issues
While primary care physicians typically won't diagnose or treat mental health disorders, they can provide an initial screening and help you to find the right specialist. If you have concerns about anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or another mental health issue, start with your physician. The doctor can review your symptoms, discuss the diagnostic process, and help you to find a psychologist, licensed therapist, or psychiatrist.
Visit a local medical clinic to learn more.
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