CHCC emphasizes importance of regular primary care visits

The Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. emphasizes the importance of primary care in maintaining overall health and well-being. Primary care is not just about visiting the doctor when you are feeling unwell; it is about fostering an ongoing relationship with a healthcare provider who understands your health history and can help identify potential issues before they become serious.

Primary care services serve as the first line of defense in safeguarding the health of our community. Despite this, many individuals underestimate the value of regular checkups, often postponing visits until they are unwell. CHCC emphasizes that primary care is essential for everyone, regardless of their current health status.

Regular visits to a primary care physician offer numerous benefits, including preventive care and screenings, which allow for proactive measures such as vaccinations that help ward off potential health issues. Additionally, regular checkups enable early detection of health problems when they are most treatable, leading to better management of chronic conditions and improving the overall quality of life. Engaging consistently with a primary care provider also contributes to improved health outcomes by maintaining wellness and addressing concerns promptly, while reducing healthcare costs in the long run by preventing the need for more extensive, expensive treatments.

The frequency of visits to your primary care physician may vary depending on individual factors. For most healthy adults, an annual checkup is recommended. However, those who are older or have chronic conditions may need to visit more frequently. Conversely, younger, healthier individuals might only need to see their doctor every other year. It is crucial to work with your healthcare provider to establish a schedule that aligns with your specific health needs.

“Don’t wait until you’re sick to prioritize your health,” said Dr. Andrzej Szefler, chairperson of the Family Care Clinic. “By scheduling regular checkups with your primary care physician, you’re taking proactive steps towards a healthier, more secure future”, he added.

In the CNMI, breast cancer ranks as the most commonly diagnosed cancer, followed by cancers of the oral cavity, lungs and bronchus, colon and rectum, and uterus. Establishing primary care and prioritizing regular screenings are essential for early detection, which is critical for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.

In addition to establishing primary care with a physician, the CHCC Oncology Center also offers the CNMI community with comprehensive cancer screening services through the Cancer and Associates Risks Early Screening Project. This initiative is dedicated to the early detection and prevention of common cancers. Individuals who chew betelnut, smoke cigarettes, consume alcohol, or have a family history of cancer are at an increased risk of developing the disease. The CARES Project offers not only CHCC Emphasizes Importance of Regular Primary

screening and testing but also cancer prevention counseling, vaccines, and follow-up sessions to discuss results and next steps.

The CHCC encourages everyone to take charge of their health by scheduling their next primary care visit today, whether at the CHCC outpatient clinics or with any other clinic or primary care provider. Establishing care now can make all the difference in preventing serious health issues and ensuring a healthier tomorrow for you and your loved ones. (PR)