Primary Healthcare

What is primary health care?

Primary health care, or primary care, can be viewed as the starting point for good health. By working with a primary care provider, you can rest assured that you will receive the health screenings, education, and support you need to navigate your personal health journey.

At OPAL Healthcare & Wellness, primary care also embraces wellness. A concept often misunderstood, wellness encompasses not only your physical wellbeing, but also your emotional, mental, and spiritual health, as well as your connections within your family and community. 

Wellness care looks a bit different for everyone but might include techniques to help you relax, recharge, expand your cognitive capabilities, or redirect your focus inward. Wellness can help you find balance among the obligations of work, family, and community and keep you centered in an ever-changing and complex world. 

What happens during primary health care visits?

Your primary care visits are the setting where you’ll receive your annual physicals. These visits give your provider an opportunity to evaluate your overall health and provide the screenings appropriate for your age, sex, and health history. 

Primary care visits are also your opportunity to discuss any areas of concern with your practitioner. Wondering if you should add supplements to your diet? Considering a new weight loss approach? Planning an international trip and looking to protect against disease and/or injuries? Your primary health care visits are the setting to cover all these needs. 

For patients living with hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol, chronic disease management is part of primary health care visits. Other services include IV hydration, immunization, sports or back-to-school exams, and immunizations. 

How can I best prepare for primary health care visits?

A bit of advance preparation can help you make the most of your primary health care visits. Begin by compiling a list of all medications and supplements you are taking. Many substances can interact negatively with one another, so having this information in your record is vital. 

You should also create a list of any questions or concerns you have. It’s easy to overlook something once your exam begins, and having a written list to refer to helps avoid forgetting something important. 

If you’re searching for a health care team that delivers customized, compassionate care in a warm and welcoming environment, schedule a primary health care appointment at OPAL Healthcare & Wellness. Booking a visit takes just moments online or by phone, so don’t delay.