Dr. Judith Chalykoff of Lake Nona Medical Center.
“In this day and age, is it really necessary to get an annual check-up with a physician?”
How many times have you ever asked yourself that question? If you’re like most, it’s especially poignant right before you pick up the phone to dial your doc’s office. Although there are different schools of thought, an overwhelming number of physicians still strongly believe the best way to stay healthy longer is to have an annual exam.
“A general wellness visit should be scheduled once a year for everyone, and people with ongoing medical conditions should come more frequently, such as every three to six months as required,” says Dr. Judith Chalykoff of Lake Nona Medical Center. “If someone hasn’t been seen in many years they will need to start with a complete evaluation.”
The doctor believes there are many benefits to annual visits, including prevention of future health problems and earlier diagnosis of existing problems. An annual check-up can also provide your physician with valuable information should you become ill. Regardless of age, the benefits to an annual visit remain the same.
The appointments allow for a physician to build a health history with their patients, gathering baseline health information and building a more comfortable doctor-patient rapport. It has been shown in the past that when patients are more comfortable with their physicians, they tend to open up a bit more and share pertinent health history information.
The yearly meeting also allows for various diagnostics to be run, including but not limited to blood tests and routine screenings for diseases ranging from cancer to diabetes and osteoporosis to cardiovascular disease.
When preparing to come in to an office, especially if the term “annual” physician is lost on you entirely, Chalykoff suggests a few simple tips to make the visit go smoothly, and to ensure you gain the most for your time spent in the office.
“Start by making a list of all of your questions for the doctor, that way you don’t miss any of the vital answers you were looking for,” she says. “It’s also important to bring all of your current medication bottles if you have any, as well as any medical records in your possession.”
It’s a good idea to be open to discussion as well. Patients should be prepared not only to discuss their health history, but also that of their family’s history. Sharing lifestyle choices ultimately helps the doctor determine risk factors and allows them to make better recommendations about disease prevention tactics and techniques.
But still, you feel fine, and don’t really see a need to go, right? Well, an annual check-up isn’t just about your physical health - it’s also about your mental health. Take the opportunity to ask questions and receive counseling or advice about issues such as stress and anxiety.
Speaking of mental health, an annual visit can also provide you with peace of mind. Away from the office, Chalykoff suggests incorporating a few minor lifestyle changes to give you that piece of mind the other 364 days of the year. “One thing people should do every day is incorporate an exercise activity that they enjoy doing into their schedule,” she says. “The secret of a happy, healthy life is not to diet but to eat sensible, smaller portions of all the food groups.”
Whether you decide it’s important for you to schedule an annual office visit or not, the most important thing to remember about your health is that it’s yours. “A healthy lifestyle requires taking personal responsibility for your own wellbeing,” says Chalykoff.
To learn more please contact:
Lake Nona Medical Center
10437 Moss Park Road, Orlando, FL 32832
(407) 802-1100
Article by Corey Gehrold
Patient education is key to the success of Digestive and Liver Center of Florida (DLC). Pictured, Dr. Harinath Sheela reviews exam results with a patient.
Ultimately, your health comes down to one person: you.
It’s up to you to know what’s out there and what you can do about it. Understandably, that can be somewhat of a lonely road to walk if you don’t know exactly where your healthy destination is. One East Orlando based practice in particular understands, sometimes, patients may need a roadmap of sorts to their health, which is why Digestive and Liver Center of Florida (DLC) focuses so much on patient education, especially during March - Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
“Education leads to better decisions, which we believe, leads to prevention; and that’s what’s most important,” says Dr. Seela Ramesh of DLC. He, along with his fellow partners, Drs. Harinath Sheela and Srinivas Seela, both Yale trained gastroenterologists, have created a patient education focused, compassion centered practice that has helped to treat and prevent thousands of area residents who were diagnosed or may have been at risk for colorectal cancer (CRC).
Colorectal Cancer: The Facts
CRC accounts for almost ten percent of all cancer deaths and is the second most cause of death in the United States. In 2010 alone there were 51,370 deaths as a result of combined colon and rectal cancer.
Dr. Seela Ramesh reviews the importance of regular screenings with a patient as part of a preventative, proactive approach to healthcare.
“According to the National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance, someone dies from CRC every 9.3 minutes, but it doesn’t have to be that way. It’s a preventable disease, which is why screenings are so important,” says Dr. Ramesh. “The obvious way to prevent being diagnosed is screening.”
It’s recommended by the gastroenterologists to be regularly screened for CRC if you’re 50 and older. “Essentially, these screenings detect precancerous polyps so they can be treated before they become cancerous,” says Dr. Sheela. One of the most popular forms of screenings is a colonoscopy - a process where the physicians utilize a flexible tube to examine the inner lining of the patient’s rectum and colon.
The cancer can be asymptomatic, however many patients experience symptoms including: abdominal pain, blood in the stool, tiredness, irregular bowel habits and overall weakness. “If you experience any of the symptoms typically associated with CRC, we recommend contacting your primary care physician immediately,” says Dr. Seela.
“As physicians, it is our moral responsibility to help patients understand this disease and prevent it wherever possible,” says Dr. Sheela. “Through education and screening, we can make a difference in the lives of our patients.”
The DLC Difference
In addition to education and prevention, compassion is also part of the DLC philosophy. Here Dr. Srinivas Seela cares for a new patient during his initial exam.
Since 2005, the doctors of DLC have been working to change patient perceptions of healthcare providers. By creating a warm, caring environment where patients feel at ease, the doctors say they connect with patients on a personal level. As a result, both parties are able to engage more during consultations leading to more dialog and less stress.
“When patients are coming into our office for the first time, they aren’t sure what to expect and they typically aren’t looking forward to seeing us, to be blunt,” says Dr. Seela. “We understand that, and that’s why we do everything we can to make the experience a positive, educational one, because that’s what we would want if the roles were reversed.”
The office’s patient-first mentality has resulted in great success for the practice, according to the doctors. So much so, in fact, that they are expanding their practice over the course of the upcoming months in an effort to serve even more East Orlando residents.
Their new state-of-the-art office will feature additional patient exam rooms, a patient library, a floor plan designed to maximize patient care and a beautifully decorated, comfortable lobby. “Every aspect of design was scrutinized by us to ensure patients feel at ease the minute they walk through the doors,” says Dr. Sheela.
NEW LOCATION OPENING SOON
100 N. Dean Road
Suite 101
Orlando, FL 32825
CURRENT LOCATION
East Orlando
7975 Lake Underhill Road, Suite 360
Orlando, FL 32822
Downtown
3000 N. Orange Ave., Suite C
Orlando, FL 32804
Contact
Phone: 407-384-7388
Web: www.DLCFL.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/DLCFL
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/Digestive1
YouTube: www.YouTube.com/DLCFL1
Article by Corey Gehrold
As a chiropractor in the Central Florida area for more than 15 years, Dr. James Finnie deals with auto accident victims on an almost daily basis in addition to all of his other patients. He is the owner and sole practitioner at Finnie Chiropractic Center, where they specialize in treating the entire person, not just the symptoms.
Below are some of the common questions Dr. Finnie hears while treating auto accident victims.
1. I was recently in an accident but I haven’t really felt any different. Should I see a chiropractor anyway and will my insurance pay for it?
Dr. James Finnie, Finnie Chiropractic Center.
There are differing opinions among chiropractors on this issue. It is my opinion that if you are not feeling any pain post motor vehicle accident, it is unlikely that chiropractic care, as it relates to the auto accident, would be indicated. However, for your own peace of mind and from an insurance perspective, you are entitled to an examination to determine the appropriateness of care. Automobile insurance companies offer variable personal injury protection (PIP) policies. The most expensive policy pays for care of injuries directly related to the accident at 100 percent of the state mandated fee schedule. The most common policy is an 80/20 policy where your insurance company pays 80 percent and you are responsible for the rest. When in doubt, call your insurance carrier to check your personal financial responsibility.
Be mindful of what your state legislators are doing in response to pressure from the insurance industry. Automobile insurance coverage may follow recent trends in hurricane liability insurance which has been to shift greater financial responsibility to you when you can least afford it.
2. How common is it for someone to experience back and neck pain following an accident? Is it usually felt immediately?
Neck and back injuries are pandemic post motor vehicle accidents. The severity of injuries varies widely from a sprain/strain to nonsurgical or surgical disc injury and even fracture. It is common to feel some pain immediately. However, it should be noted that sometimes symptoms are delayed up to 48 hours post trauma.
3. I’ve never been to a chiropractor before. If there is a problem, how likely is it you can correct it and how long will that take?
The severity of possible injuries varies widely. Some minor muscular strains may resolve within two to four weeks of treatment, whereas a moderate sprain/strain within two to four months. More severe sprain/strain injuries and/or nonsurgical disc involvement may take six months to a year to stabilize. Some “whiplash” injuries resolve without residual symptoms. Some chronic injuries stabilize but are subject to recurrent painful episodes as physical limitations are exceeded.
4. Is there anything I can do at home to help speed the process along or help it in some way?
Your chiropractor should always address and encourage your involvement in the healing process. Appropriately timed ice packs, heat packs, nutritional supplements as well as timely stretching, strengthen and stabilization exercise protocols will help facilitate optimal outcomes.
5. If I have pain flare up suddenly, should I attribute it to the car accident? What can I do when it gets intense but I can’t schedule an appointment immediately?
If you feel unfamiliar neck, back, headache, hip, shoulder, arm or leg pain post auto accident, you should be examined by a chiropractor. Common sense dictates that is unlikely your first sign of pain six months to a year after an accident is related to that accident. “Intense” pain can imply the need for emergent evaluation at a local hospital.
If your question was not answered or you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Finnie, contact Finnie Chiropractic Center today. The center is a provider for many general health insurance companies, including Medicare.
Finnie Chiropractic Center
1130 S. Semoran Blvd, Suite E
Orlando, FL 32807
Phone: 407-277-3535
There’s nothing scarier than having a feverish child or sick loved one and feeling like you have nowhere to go and no one to turn to. Finding a good primary care physician can help nurse you and your loved ones back to health.
Yet, according to a 2008 survey by the American Medical Association, a national shortage of 35,000 to 40,000 primary care physicians by 2025 is predicted. So with these grim predictions for the future making the search even more difficult, how do you scope out the best care possible?
To prevent panicking when sickness strikes, begin the search before you get sick. Instead of rushing into a decision, ask people you trust for their recommendations and first-hand accounts. Once you have recommendations in hand, find out the doctor’s qualifications such as experience, training and certifications.
Primary care doctors are typically the first stop before seeing a specialist and are trained in all major areas of medicine. They are trained in pediatrics, family medicine, internal medicine, and obstetrics and gynecology, and can also have specialties themselves.
According to You: The Smart Patient, An Insider’s Handbook for Getting the Best Treatment by Michael F. Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet C. Oz, M.D. , choosing a doctor is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. In the chapter “Finding Dr. Right,” the authors suggest calling a medical society for referrals. While they do recommend getting referrals online and from relatives and friends, the authors say finding out if a doctor is board certified is one of the first things they investigate.
They note that becoming certified is optional and some physicians may not be board certified. “We just wouldn’t take our kids to them or let them operate on us,” they write.
As the authors note, many people are turning to technology to search and locate primary care doctors. One site, Mamapedia.com, connects moms locally and around the world to exchange a dose of motherly advice. Even moms in East Orlando are utilizing the site forums to find reputable doctors in the area.
“I am looking for a good primary care physician and children’s dentist for my six-year-old daughter in the southeast Orlando area,” posts mom Jae T. from Orlando. “I had good experiences with pediatricians in the Palm Beach area and I am now looking for someone that has that same kid friendly attitude and atmosphere. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.”
Marie, another Orlando mom, asks for help in finding a new pediatrician after facing problems at other offices, “I feel very rushed the majority of times and I don’t feel supported in a lot of my decisions or concerns.”
Like many parents, she is willing to go to great lengths to find proper care. “I live on the East side of Orlando in Avalon Park but will travel across town for a good doc,” she says.
While it’s always good to hear feedback from trusted sources, another person’s doctor may not end up being the right choice for you or your family. Another factor to consider is finding out which doctors are approved by your insurance and health plan. Even if your insurance is not accepted at their office, call the insurance company to ask if the doctor can be added to their list.
Also find out if any criminal charges or malpractice claims have been brought against your physician. Contact the state medical-licensing board or county clerk’s office to find information on your doctor’s record.
Arrange a visit to their office before your appointment to ask any questions you may have and see if the staff and office meets your needs. Dr. Roizen and Dr. Oz offer a tip once you are confident with your choice and the search is over: “Befriend the office nurses and the administrators. They can make your life very pleasant and convenient in dealing with your doctor, so show them love at every visit.”
Article by Aimee Hoyt
Although 58 percent of American adults have resolved to make improvements in their health this year, more than half say they often find reasons not to exercise, according to an American Heart Association survey. Excuses range from too much stress at work, to having nothing to wear to the gym, to simple procrastination.
The American Heart Association is suggesting an easy two step approach to staying on track with your health focused New Year’s Resolution: Step 1- assess your current health; Step 2 - use free motivating tools to achieve your goals.
For the first time, the American Heart Association has defined “ideal cardiovascular health,” identifying seven health factors and lifestyle behaviors that support heart health. In a recent survey of adult Americans, the association found 39 percent said they thought they had ideal heart health; however, 54 percent of those (and 70 percent of all respondents) said a health professional had told them they had a risk factor for heart disease and/or needed to make a lifestyle change to improve their heart health. These findings indicate most people don’t associate important risk factors, such as poor diet and physical inactivity, with heart disease.
While the metrics for children have vary based on pediatric recommendations and guidelines, ideal cardiovascular health for adults is defined by the presence of these seven health measures, known as Life’s Simple 7:
● Never smoked or quit more than one year ago
● Body mass index less than 25 kg/m2
● Physical activity of at least 150 minutes (moderate) or 75 minutes (vigorous) each week
● Four to five of the key components of a healthy diet consistent with current American Heart Association guideline recommendations
● Total cholesterol of less than 200 mg/dL
● Blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg
● Fasting blood glucose less than 100 mg/dL
So back to Step 1: asses your current health with these measures so you can set a realistic New Year’s Resolution. Take the American Heart Association’s My Life Check, a short assessment to easily identify where you fall on the health spectrum. Visit www.Heart.org/MyLifeCheck to take this free simply survey. You’ll gain a better understanding on your healthy priorities, and be armed with additional tools that offer specific action steps to improve the measurements and track personal progress.
Now onto Step 2…Once you know your area of weakness (diet, exercise, lack of sleep, etc.), put the My Life Check suggestions into action. In fact, if you are a coach potato addicted to social media, you can start there! The American Heart Association’s Start! initiative, focused on increasing physical activity for improved heart-health, is introducing the Start! Daily Walking Guide, a free social media application designed to get more Americans active and help them keep their health and physical activity resolutions. Nearly half of all Americans use online tools to track their health.
The Start! Daily Walking Guide is the ideal tool to stay committed to New Year’s resolutions. Adults spend 164 more hours per year at work than we did 20 years ago, and for many Americans that means lots of time on computers. The application allows you to keep track of your physical activity, see progress, find accountability and get great encouragement.
The Start! Daily Walking Guide can be downloaded and embedded into a variety of sites including Facebook, Windows Live and iGoogle. Users get started with a quiz that generates 12 weeks worth of customized walking plans, a private journal section that lets users record their walks and reference archived exercises, and keep motivated with daily inspirational messages and heart-health tips.
Physically active people reduce their cardiovascular disease risk by 30 percent. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity, like brisk walking, each week.
Download your Start! Daily Walking Guide at StartWalkingNow.org.
Article by Nancy Devault, Director of Communications, American Heart Association
