Primary Care

Primary Care Medicine: What You Need to Know

Proper medical care and attention are crucial for maintaining overall health. A primary care provider is essential in managing preventative check-ups, treating illnesses and injuries, providing immunizations, and other vital processes that help keep us healthy.

You may wonder when primary care is right for you and how to ensure your primary care provider can meet your specific needs. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about primary care medicine and why it is an important part of any plan for staying healthy.

What Is Primary Care?

Primary care is the foundation of our healthcare system and includes a broad range of medical services essential for maintaining good overall health. Generally speaking, the primary care provider is the patient’s first point of contact with the healthcare system and provides a wide range of preventive and basic medical care. Primary care medicine includes preventive measures such as immunizations, health screenings and counseling, and the management of chronic disease.

Primary care also provides care for acute illnesses, injuries, and infections. Primary care providers work closely with patients to coordinate treatment with specialists when needed. Ultimately, the goal of primary care is to keep patients healthy and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations or emergency room visits.

Why Is It Important To Have A Primary Care Provider

Having a primary care provider is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being. Having a provider who knows your medical history and can provide continuity of care is especially important in managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease. Primary care providers focus on preventive care and encourage regular check-ups and screenings. By detecting potential health issues early on, they can be treated before they become more serious and difficult to manage.

In addition, primary care is typically more cost-effective than specialty care or emergency room visits, making it a valuable resource for managing your healthcare needs. Studies have shown that individuals who have a primary care provider have better health outcomes, including lower rates of hospitalizations and longer life expectancy.

Find the Right Primary Care Provider

When you need to find a primary care provider, it is important to choose someone who understands your individual health needs and can provide personalized care. Start by doing your research and checking out reviews from other patients but remember that everyone’s experience may be different. Consider the provider’s qualifications and experience, as well as their communication style and bedside manner.

It is also important to make sure that the provider accepts your insurance and is conveniently located for you. Do not be afraid to schedule a consultation to get to know the provider better and ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have. With a little bit of effort and patience, you can find the perfect primary care provider to help you achieve your health goals.

Choosing Your Primary Care Provider

There are several factors to consider when making your selection, such as the location, hours of operation, and the qualifications of the providers. Additionally, it is important to consider the practice’s approach to healthcare and whether it aligns with your personal beliefs and values. A good primary care practice should prioritize communication and collaboration with their patients to ensure that their healthcare needs are met.

Take the time to research and visit different practices to find the one that feels comfortable for you. Your primary care provider will play an integral role in your healthcare journey, so it is worth investing the time and effort to find a practice that you feel comfortable with.

Family Medicine Provider in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida

Finding a quality family medicine facility near you is as easy as calling Advanced Medical Clinic. Our team of dedicated, compassionate board-certified family care providers is proud to offer comprehensive, personalized care to you and your family members. Whether you are feeling like you have the flu or need help managing your chronic condition, you can rely on the family care providers at Advanced Medical Clinic.

To make an appointment with our primary care providers, call us today at (561) 434-1935. You can also make an appointment online using our convenient online appointment request form.

A Comprehensive Guide to Finding Primary Care Providers Near You

Choosing a primary care provider is an important decision, as your choice could impact the quality of medical treatment and services you receive. To make the task easier, this comprehensive guide covers everything from how to conduct research on potential family medicine providers to examples of how to find reliable health professionals near you.

Identify Your Needs

When it comes to healthcare, identifying your specific needs is crucial in finding the right type of care. Take some time to think about whether you require family medicine or internal medicine. Family medicine practitioners offer comprehensive care for patients of all ages, while internal medicine specialists focus on adult health concerns.

Another option might be a specialist in a certain area, such as a cardiologist or dermatologist. By considering your individual health needs, you can make an informed decision about the best available care. Remember, taking the time to evaluate and prioritize your healthcare needs is a major step toward achieving optimal health and well-being.

Do Your Homework

Taking care of our health is essential, and finding a family medicine provider who can guide us toward optimal wellness is crucial. Fortunately, in this digital age, searching for medical professionals in our area has become easier than ever. By using the internet, we can browse through a pool of highly qualified family medicine provider in our locality.

These family medicine providers can offer personalized care, preventative measures, and acute treatment for various illnesses. Whether you need a regular check-up, vaccination, or treatment for a chronic condition, a primary care provider can provide the medical expertise and care that you need.

Ask For Recommendations

When it comes to making important decisions, there is nothing quite like getting a personal recommendation from someone you trust. That is why asking friends and family can be such a valuable strategy for finding the right primary care provider.

Make a Few Calls

Taking the first step towards finding a new family medicine provider can be overwhelming, but making an initial call to their office can provide clarity and ease any concerns. Asking about their services, accepted insurance plans, and availability can give you a comprehensive understanding of the care they provide. It is important to feel comfortable and confident in your healthcare provider, and reaching out to their office is a great starting point. Do not hesitate to ask questions and make sure to take notes to keep yourself informed. Making that initial call could be the beginning of a long-term, beneficial relationship with your family medicine provider.

Check Out Online Reviews

When it comes to choosing a family medicine provider, it is important to consider more than just their qualifications and expertise. You want to feel comfortable and at ease with the entire experience, from booking an appointment to interacting with the nurse and office staff. Reading online reviews of the family medicine provider and their practice can help you get a sense of what to expect.

You can learn about other patients’ experiences, including their wait times, the friendliness of the front desk staff, and the provider’s bedside manner. While one or two negative reviews may not necessarily be cause for concern, consistently poor feedback should raise a red flag. Take the time to do your research and make an informed decision about your healthcare provider.

Schedule an Appointment

Making the decision to find a new family medicine provider can be a daunting task. You want someone who is not only experienced and knowledgeable, but who also fits your personality and communication style. That is why a meet-and-greet appointment can be incredibly valuable. This is an opportunity to sit down with the family medicine provider in person, ask any questions you may have, and get a feel for their approach to medicine. You will be able to assess if this is someone you feel comfortable working with and trust to guide your healthcare decisions.

Family Medicine Provider in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida

Finding a quality family medicine facility near you is as easy as calling Advanced Medical Clinic. Our team of dedicated, compassionate board-certified providers is proud to offer comprehensive, personalized care to you and your family members. Whether you are feeling like you have the flu or need help managing a chronic condition, you can rely on the team at Advanced Medical Clinic.

To make an appointment with one of our primary care providers, call us today at (561) 434-1935. You can also make an appointment online using our convenient online appointment request form.

4 Tips for Choosing Your Primary Care Provider

Choosing the right primary care provider is crucial to ensure you receive proper medical care and advice. This essential decision can impact future health outcomes, including adherence to treatment, patient satisfaction, and continuity of care.

A family care provider who values your time, communicates effectively, and provides personalized care can make a big difference in your healthcare experience. Below are four insightful tips to help you select the right provider to entrust your health with:

1.  Determine The Type Of Family Care Provider That Suits Your Needs

Working with the right family care provider starts with determining the type of medical professional that will meet your needs. There are several types of primary care providers, including:

  • Family practitioners
  • Pediatricians
  • Internists
  • Obstetricians/gynecologists
  • Geriatricians
  • Nurse practitioners
  • Physician assistants

Patients should know their provider’s training background, like family medicine or internal medicine, and their scope of practice.

For instance, a pediatrician is best if you have young children. If you’re an older adult with complex medical issues related to aging, a geriatrician would be a good choice.

Consider Professional Qualifications

Once you have narrowed your options to a specific type of family care provider, research their qualifications. This includes their medical education, residency, and board certification. It is highly recommended that patients seek board-certified family medicine provider. This serves as a strong indicator of their expertise and competency in their field.

Consider Management Practices

A family care provider who values their patients’ time and well-being will have flexible office hours and convenient appointment scheduling options. During appointments, you want to feel that your concerns are heard and that you have ample time to discuss your concerns.

Another important factor to consider is the office staff. Friendly and efficient staff can make all the difference in your overall experience. From scheduling appointments to managing insurance claims, a family care provider’s office staff should be knowledgeable and helpful in supporting your needs.

2.  Look For A Family Care Provider Who Shows Compassion And Professionalism

Professionalism and genuine care for patients are essential components of clinical excellence. There is a preference for family care providers who:

  • Show compassion for patient care
  • Display professionalism
  • Exhibit respect and empathy towards patients

Moreover, a family care provider with a scholarly approach to clinical practice can offer patients quality and evidence-based care. They stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices, allowing them to provide the best medical services.

3.  Choose A Family Care Provider Who Is Experienced In Diagnosing And Treating Several Conditions

Competent primary care providers contribute to better health outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, and a more efficient healthcare system. Their ability to diagnose and manage health problems is critical to ensuring patient satisfaction.

Provides Comprehensive And Continuous Care

Look for a provider who can manage a wide range of health problems. This will reduce the need for multiple referrals to specialists. This saves you time and decreases your financial burden.

Also, consider choosing a family care provider who can provide consistent and continuous care over time. This allows for the development of a strong provider-patient relationship.

A well-established connection enables the provider to comprehend your medical history and address your health concerns more effectively.

Works With Your Insurance Provider

A key aspect of healthcare is the ability to work closely with insurance providers. This ensures you receive the necessary coverage for your treatments at the least cost to you. Finding a family care provider covered by your insurance will help you avoid high out-of-pocket expenses.

Coordinates Care With Specialists

When specialist care is necessary, excellent family care providers coordinate with specialists to ensure seamless care for their patients. This coordination includes:

  • Sharing relevant medical information
  • Discussing treatment plans
  • Monitoring the patient’s progress

All of these contribute to a more efficient and effective healthcare experience.

Prevents Unnecessary Specialist Care

The term “provider referral” goes beyond a casual suggestion or recommendation. It is when a primary care provider recommends a patient to receive specialized medical attention or particular services.

This system aims to simplify the communication process between providers regarding a patient’s healthcare requirements. Primary care providers can help patients avoid unnecessary referrals to specialists. They do this by accurately diagnosing and managing their patients’ conditions themselves whenever possible.

4.  Seek Referrals And Recommendations

Getting referrals and recommendations from family, friends, or healthcare professionals is an excellent way to find a good provider. That way, they can give you a good understanding of how their experience went.

You can check online reviews and patient satisfaction surveys to gather more information about your potential primary care provider. Online forums can also help you find the best provider for a specific chronic condition or disability.

Primary Care Provider Near You In Wellington & Royal Palm Beach, FL

Navigating the complex world of healthcare can be challenging. However, having a primary care provider who understands your medical history and needs can make all the difference. When you consult the same provider consistently, they become familiar with your unique health history and needs. This knowledge goes beyond what can be documented in a medical file, promoting personalized care tailored to your specific circumstances.

Are you looking for a family medicine provider near you? At Advanced Medical Clinic, the best family practice in Wellington, patients can consistently receive care from our top primary care providers. This continuity of care offers numerous benefits that contribute to better health outcomes. You can easily ask questions and seek guidance without having to explain your symptoms or past experiences repeatedly.

To schedule an appointment, call (561) 434-1935 today. You can also request an appointment with the best primary care provider in Royal Palm Beach by using our online form. Don’t leave your healthcare to chance—opt for a trusted, dedicated primary care provider at Advanced Medical Clinic.

The Importance of Primary Care

Primary care encompasses your general health, from blood pressure to preventive care and even cancer detection. Recent studies have shown that primary care has declined for patients in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. Let’s talk about the importance of primary care providers, how they can benefit you in the long run, and where you can go for outstanding primary care in Wellington or Royal Palm Beach, Florida.

Annual Wellness Exams

As a child, getting annual physicals is essential to keep health and development on track. Similarly, annual wellness exams are recommended for adults. During these wellness exams, your primary care provider will thoroughly check your medical history, talk about any concerns you may be having, and take all your vital signs to ensure you’re remaining in good health.

Someone to Rely on For Specialist Referrals

Do you have a concern that you need to see a specialist for? Your primary care provider is a source for all your medical needs, including referrals to specialists in your area. High-quality primary care providers will vet the right specialist for you, ensuring you get the comprehensive care you deserve both inside and outside the office.

Primary Care is Also Preventive Care

Your primary care is important because it also encompasses your preventive care. Preventive care is all the diagnostic testing and screenings recommended yearly to ensure you remain in good health and don’t have any abnormalities. For example, we encourage men and women to receive regular pelvic exams, prostate exams, cervical Pap exams, and more to reduce the risk of catching cancer or tumors too late. Your primary care provider can also help you continue your preventive care at home with tips on staying active and eating a healthy diet.

Your Primary Care Provider Knows You Best

Ultimately, it’s important to understand that your primary care provider knows you best than all your medical providers. They know your detailed medical history and have been with you through the years to know exactly what health looks like in your specific situation. Your primary care provider is who you can rely on to know you’re not feeling well and know which treatments are right for you and your lifestyle.

Primary Care Near Me

If you’re looking for a primary care provider in Wellington or Royal Palm Beach, Florida, look no further than Advanced Medical Clinic. Our team of expert primary care providers is proud to offer high-quality, comprehensive care to men and women of all ages and backgrounds. We are also happy to offer family and internal medicine services, allowing you and your family to receive the detail-oriented, patient-centered care you all deserve.

To make an appointment with our primary care providers, call us today at (561) 434-1935. You can also schedule a consultation using our convenient online appointment request form.

How to Choose a Primary Care Provider

A family medicine provider is your key to achieving and maintaining optimal health. They provide you with everything from treating common illnesses such as fever, flu, allergies, etc., to screening deadly illnesses like breast cancer or prostate cancer and referral to a specialist.

A primary care provider is a medical provider who addresses all your primary care needs. So, it would be best if you chose a family medicine provider with which you can have a rewarding relationship. Your family medicine provider can be your family nurse practitioner, pediatrician, Ob/Gyn, internal medicine provider, etc.

Let’s talk about some tips you can follow while choosing your primary care provider and where you can find the best primary care provider in Royal Palm Beach.

Tip#1 Start by Asking People You know

Finding the best primary care provider in your area can be challenging. So, follow this easy step, i.e., ask around.

You can speak with your family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors and get recommendations from them. Another good source is getting recommendations from other healthcare professionals like pharmacists, physiotherapists, dentists, etc.

Note down the name of all the primary care providers in a journal and research them to narrow down the list.

Tip #2 Get Help from Your Insurance Provider

A primary care provider who shares your insurance plan will decrease your health care costs. So, to pay the least out of your pocket, ask your insurance provider to give you a list of primary care providers who come under your plan. You can also search for the name of your potential primary care provider on your insurance provider’s website.

You must choose a primary care provider who comes under your insurance plan and is compatible with you.

Tip #3 Research the Education and Credentials

Do a background check to narrow down the list of primary care providers you have in hand. You must find out about the education, training, experience,and accreditation of all the primary care providers on your list.

Also, make sure that your potential primary care provider is board certified and has no history of a malpractice claim or disciplinary action.

Tip #4 Know What Other People Say About the Provider

Knowing what other people say about your potential primary care provider will give you an insight into how the family medicine provider practices medicine, the attitude of staff and family medicine providers towards patients, and appointment wait times.

For this, read patient reviews and testimonials about primary care providers. While these reviews can be used as a yardstick when choosing the family medicine provider, you should not completely rely on patient reviews as they can be fabricated and sometimes misleading.

Tip #5 Find Out If your Primary Care Provider Is Compatible with You

Before choosing a provider, know them in person. For this, make a one-on-one consultation with them. During your consultation, notice your provider’s communication style. Also, see if they answer your questions and value your point and treatment preference.

Choose a provider who considers you a person, not a number.

Primary Care in Royal Palm Beach

If you’re looking for a highly skilled and trained family medicine provider, look no further than Advanced Medical in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida. At our clinic, we offer a high standard of primary and urgent care. Our internal medicine specialist Dr. Ishan Gunawardene and nurse practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene provide comprehensive treatment options to help you achieve a better quality of life.

To set up a consultation with our primary care providers, call us today at (561) 434-1935 or request an appointment by filling out our online form.

4 Healthy Tips from a Primary Care Provider Near You

It’s no denying that you need to avoid illnesses and practice healthy habits to thrive and live a long-lasting life. However, avoiding certain illnesses and making healthy choices isn’t always easy.

The good news is that there is a primary care provider– your primary care provider– who can help you achieve and maintain good health by fulfilling all your primary care needs and giving you some healthy tips.

Let’s talk about 4 healthy tips that your primary care provider may advise you for living the healthiest and longest life and where you can find the best primary care provider in Royal Palm Beach.

#1 Get Routine Health Screenings

Most people think regular health screening is only for those at risk for certain illnesses due to their genetic makeup. However, routine health screening is helpful for everyone. It helps detect diseases or conditions early when they are most treatable.

So, your primary care provider recommends you regularly get yourself screened for heart disease, diabetes, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer.

During your health checkups, you may also be asked to get screened for diseases specific to your gender and age group.

#2 Take Control of your Health

To live a long healthy life, it’s important that you must take an active role in your health and well-being. You should make intelligent health choices using the knowledge and skills your primary care provider equips you with.

For example, if you have a chronic disease, such as diabetes, obesity, or hypertension, your primary care provider advises you to manage your health condition by keeping a tab on your health numbers like blood pressure, BMI/weight, and blood sugar level.

#3 Maintain a Balanced Diet

One of the easiest things you can do to stay fit and healthy is to make wise food choices. This is because what you eat heavily impacts your health status.

For example, if you’re prediabetic, eating sugary food will keep your blood sugar level high, and you will quickly develop full-blown diabetes.

So, your primary care provider advises you to incorporate the right amount of real food – whole grains, nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruits, fish, and healthy meat – into your diet. Plus, you must reduce your salt intake and alcohol consumption.

#4 Stay Physically Active

People living sedentary lives are at higher risk for cancer, metabolic diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and musculoskeletal diseases, such as back pain, knee pain, and osteoporosis.

So, your primary care provider advises you to engage in physical activity that gets you moving for 30 minutes daily, at least three days a week.

You can stay active by doing simple and enjoyable activities, such as cycling, swimming, walking, running, dancing, etc.

Primary Care Provider in Royal Palm Beach

At Advanced Medical in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida, our primary care providers, Dr. Ishan Gunawardene and Shariffa Gunawardene, are committed to providing you with comprehensive primary care and urgent care. Our primary care provider offer advanced, evidence-based, individualized care to help you achieve good health and enjoy a long healthy life.

To make an appointment with our primary care providers, call us today at (561) 434-1935 or request an appointment online.

3 Major Benefits of Walking

Walking requires no gym membership or special equipment. It’s no wonder walking is one of the most popular forms of exercise. Several studies show that it’s one of the simplest things you can do to improve your physical, emotional, and mental health. A 30-minute daily walk program can burn calories, reduce cholesterol, increase endurance, and improve depression, among many other things.

Here are three major benefits of this underestimated activity:

#1: Strengthens Bones And Muscles

Walking daily transfers weight from your joints to your muscles and helps increase bone density. This makes you stronger and more resistant to musculoskeletal injuries.

Osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become weak and prone to breaking, can also be prevented through regular walking. This activity also tones your leg and abdominal muscles.

Additionally, older adults can lower their chances of impairment and arthritic pain by walking for at least 10 minutes daily.

If you’re looking for a simple, affordable way to get more movement, you can start with this!

#2: Improves Your Heart Health

Walking helps promote heart health in three ways. It does the following:

  • Improves circulation
  • Lowers blood pressure
  • Decreases cholesterol levels

People who follow a daily walking routine have a 30% lower risk of heart attack or stroke. In addition, a walking program can help manage your blood pressure, resting heart rate, weight, body fat, and cholesterol. It can reduce days spent in a hospital and even increase your life expectancy compared to no leisure-time physical activity.

Do you have an existing heart condition and are thinking about starting a daily walking routine? Consult a primary care provider to know the most suitable way to introduce this into your lifestyle.

#3: Increases Cognitive Function And Boosts Mood

Adding a daily walk routine has notable mental benefits. You may experience increased brain function and improved mood compared to those who do not walk much.

Walking can also heighten creativity by an average of 60%. It enhances divergent thinking and increases brain flow by exploring many possible solutions quickly. Additionally, walking can improve memory and stop the loss of brain tissue with age.

Physical activities like it do more than boost cognitive function. They also encourage the body to release endorphins. This feel-good hormone can help:

  • Elevate mood
  • Stimulate relaxation
  • Lower stress levels

Starting A Daily Walk Routine

The first step to starting a walking routine is to consult your primary care provider for a general assessment. They can help you identify the risks and benefits of a suitable and effective walking program.

Once you have a schedule in place, all you need to do is be consistent with it. Here are a few notes to help you get started:

  • Warm up and cool down before and after your walking sessions.
  • Start at a relaxed pace and quicken as you go.
  • Interval is key. Try to vary your speed for small amounts of time.
  • Have a bottle of water with you and drink plenty of fluids.
  • Consult a primary care provider to ensure you are maintaining healthy walking habits.

Primary Care Near You In Wellington, FL

Daily walks can improve your quality of life by strengthening muscles and joints, improving heart health, and boosting brain function. Most people can safely engage in modest exercise, such as brisk walking. However, it’s best to check with a health professional, preferably your primary care provider, before you take on a new exercise program.

If you’re searching for a primary care provider in Wellington, Florida, consider us here at Advanced Medical Clinic. Our board-certified healthcare providers work hand in hand to bring patients’ goals to fruition. As the top Wellington family practice, we aim to provide the highest quality of compassionate health care. That way, our patients can focus on living their best lives.

To schedule an appointment with a primary care provider in Wellington, call our office at (561) 434-1935. You can also use our convenient online request form.

How To Find the Best Primary Care Provider for Your Health

If you’re looking for a new primary care provider, it’s important to do your research to find the best primary care provider for you. There are many factors to consider, such as location, hours of operation, and insurance coverage. You also want to find a provider who is qualified and experienced in treating your specific health concerns. Use these tips to help you find the right primary care provider for you and your family.

Decide What’s Important to You in a Primary Care Provider

When it comes to healthcare, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one person may not be the best option for another. That’s why it’s so important to find a primary care provider who is a good fit for you. The first step is to decide what’s important to you as a primary care provider.

Do you prefer a male or female family medicine provider? Do you want someone who is available 24/7 or who has evening and weekend hours? How important is it to you that your primary care provider has experience with your specific condition? Once you have a clear idea of your priorities, you can start your search for the perfect primary care provider. With a little time and effort, you’re sure to find a provider who meets your needs and provides the quality care you deserve.

Ask Your Friends and Family for Recommendations

Recommendations from friends and family are a great way to find a good family medicine provider. Ask around and see if anyone you know has a primary care provider they love. If you have a specific health concern, see if anyone you know has a primary care provider they would recommend for that condition. You can also ask your friends and family if they know of any primary care providers who have a good bedside manner or who are especially helpful and caring.

Once you have some recommendations, do some research on the primary care providers to make sure they are board certified and have experience treating patients with your particular condition.

Check Out Online Reviews

With the advent of the internet, it’s easier than ever to find reviews for just about anything – including family medicine provider. When you’re looking for a new provider, it can be helpful to read online reviews to get an idea of what other patients have experienced. Look for providers with high ratings and positive reviews. Checking out reviews can help you find a primary care provider who is right for you.

Schedule a Consultation with the Family Medicine Provider You’re Considering

It is important to schedule a consultation before making your final decision. This will give you a chance to meet the primary care provider and ask any questions you may have about their practice. It’s also a good opportunity to get a feel for their bedside manner and to see if they’re someone you would feel comfortable working with on a long-term basis.

Once you’ve met with all of the primary care providers you’re considering, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

If you’re looking for a top-tier family medicine provider to manage your health, Advanced Medical Clinic is here to help. Our team of experts will work with you to find the perfect fit for all your needs – and we’ll be with you every step of the way. Don’t wait – contact us today at (561) 434-1935!

What Do You Talk About with a Primary Care Provider?

Making an appointment with a primary care provider is the first step to achieving optimum health. A primary care provider can help you keep your health issues under control, which may extend your life while also offering a better quality of life.

If it’s your first time seeing a primary care provider or it’s been a while since you’ve seen one, you may be wondering how to make the most out of it. Let’s talk about a few key things you should discuss with your primary care provider during your visit, and where you can go in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach for world-class primary care.

#1: Health Concerns and Symptoms

During your visit to your primary care provider, don’t hesitate to bring up anything concerning your health, such as:

  • Aches and pains
  • Digestive issues
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Reproductive issues
  • Sexual issues
  • Diet and lifestyle issues

Be sure to be honest with your primary care provider in order to help them develop a clear picture of your overall health and wellness. If you do not bring up something because it’s embarrassing, then the issue cannot be addressed – so don’t worry, your primary care provider has seen and heard it all.

#2: Current Medical Condition

During your annual or semiannual checkup, your primary care provider will perform bloodwork and a urinalysis. The primary care provider will also check your heart, blood pressure, breathing, eyes, ears, nose, and throat.

The family medicine provider will give you a prescription for any health condition you have if necessary. Let your primary care provider know if you have been experiencing any unusual health symptoms, such as abdominal pain or occasional dizziness.

Your primary care provider will also be the one who organizes and evaluates all of the reports from the medical specialists you see, such as an ophthalmologist, allergist, neurologist, gynecologist/urologist, and endocrinologist. Part of a primary care provider’s job is to ensure that you do not have any prescriptions that have contraindications, which means that they would work against each other or work against a different underlying condition you have. This is why every specialist will ask you who your primary care provider is.

#3: Health Goals

A primary care providers’ treatments are centered not just around maintaining your quality of life, but also helping you reach your health goals. Examples of health goals include:

  • More energy and stamina
  • Less pain
  • Better control of blood glucose (sugar) levels
  • Lower blood pressure readings
  • Improved cholesterol management
  • Losing weight
  • Better balance and mobility
  • Better sleep patterns
  • Stress management
  • Better mental health
  • Better sexual health

Primary care providers can help you improve every aspect of your life that relates to your health through a range of primary care services.

Primary Care Provider in Royal Palm Beach, Florida

If you are looking for a primary care provider who truly cares, choose the Advanced Medical Clinic. Our primary care providers are a husband-and-wife team that advocates for our patients’ health and serves the whole family.

Dr. Ishan Gunawardene and nurse practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene are with you every step of the way. To schedule an appointment, call Advanced Medical Clinic today at (561) 434-1935 or fill out our appointment request form online. We look forward to being your healthcare provider!

Tips to Stay Healthy When You’re Under The Weather

If you are feeling under the weather, you are probably dreading it. Even the mildest of sicknesses can take a toll on your body and prevent you from participating fully in your daily responsibilities and activities. As such, it is useful to know how to avoid getting common illnesses and how to feel better if you do get sick.

Reasons Why You May Be Sick

Most of the time, we think that we get sick by chance, but that’s not necessarily true. Here are some reasons why you might be feeling unwell.

Hereditary Factors

You may have inherited some types of allergies from one or both of your parents. Allergic reactions can range from mild to life-threatening. They are caused by the immune system overproducing antibodies to “fight” the allergen present in the body.

Common allergies include hay fever, eczema, asthma, hives, and food allergies. Children are more commonly affected by allergies, but a first-time occurrence can happen at any age.

Workplace Environment

If there’s a cold or flu going around the office, there’s a good chance you’re going to get sick, particularly if your immune system is easily compromised.

Workplaces have communal areas and objects that get passed around constantly. Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after contact with a contaminated object is a sure way for you to get the same sickness as your colleagues.

Time of the Year

Some illnesses affect more people at certain times of the year. For example, seasonal allergies like pollen or hay allergies usually occur during spring. Meanwhile, the flu and strep throat are more common during fall and winter.

Chronic Conditions

If you’re experiencing recurring symptoms, you may have a chronic illness. There are a variety of causes of these conditions. These include age, diet, and lifestyle choices such as being overweight, smoking, and drinking excessive alcohol.

Tips to Fight Common Illnesses

No one enjoys feeling sick. It can take away from your busy day, the enjoyment you typically feel participating in your favorite activities, and can even impact your work performance. Not to mention, feeling sick is simply uncomfortable.

Get Enough Rest

You may think that staying on your feet will shake off whatever ailment you’re feeling. However, it’s not advisable to go about your day when your body is giving you signals that it’s not functioning properly. It’s best to listen to your body and take a break.

Getting ample sleep is critical to a speedy recovery. Good quality sleep has been proven to boost the immune system, which is crucial for recovery. To help you get quality sleep, make sure the room is dark, quiet, and cool.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

Cold viruses are transmitted by touch. If you use the same utensils and equipment as others, share the same food, or interact frequently with someone who has a cold, you’re more likely to get sick.

It’s important to thoroughly wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds several times a day, as well as avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes when you are outside your home. These steps can help prevent many common illnesses.

If you are sick, it’s important to continue taking these precautions as to not spread your illness to others around you.

Drink Lots of Fluids

Drinking water and other beverages like juices, broth, and electrolyte drinks when you’re feeling sick helps you replace the fluids you’ve lost. You also take in vital nutrients and eliminate waste.

Remember that being dehydrated can prolong your illness, so be sure to monitor your fluid intake over the course of a day.

Take Over-the-Counter Medications

Some go-to medications when you’re feeling flu symptoms such as fever, runny nose, and sore throat are acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Take these medications to reduce fever and muscle aches, as well. Meanwhile, seasonal allergies can be treated with oral antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays. These drugs treat sneezing, itchy skin, and stuffy nose.

Consult with Your Primary Care Provider

If you cannot pinpoint why you’re feeling unwell or if your symptoms persist for more than a few days, it’s best to seek the help of an expert. Your primary care provider can diagnose what’s ailing you and guide you towards the best treatment options.

You should also consult with a primary care provider if you suspect that you may have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, bronchitis, or high blood pressure.

Primary Care Provider at Wellington and Palm Beach, Florida

If at-home remedies do not work or you believe that you’re experiencing something more serious, it’s best to get yourself checked out by a primary care provider.

Here at Advance Medical, we provide quality healthcare to our patients. We offer internal medicine and family medicine services in Wellington and Palm Beach, Florida. Our comprehensive treatment options and experienced healthcare providers ensure that your visit with us will be both seamless and worry-free.

If you have any questions about our services, contact us at (561) 434-1935. You can also fill out our convenient online appointment request form. We look forward to getting you back to full health!