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Managing Chronic Conditions: How Primary Care Physicians Provide Ongoing Support

Managing chronic conditions is an enduring challenge that requires a comprehensive and patient-centric approach. As the first point of contact for patients, primary care physicians are uniquely positioned to provide ongoing support in this arduous journey.

This article delves into the various ways these medical professionals help patients manage their chronic conditions effectively.

The Role of Primary Care Physicians in Chronic Disease Management

Primary care physicians play an instrumental role in the continuum of care for patients with chronic diseases.They are often the first to diagnose these conditions, drawing from their broad knowledge of various body systems and medical disciplines.Once a diagnosis has been made, these physicians develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the unique needs and circumstances of each patient.

Coordinating Comprehensive Care

Coordinating care among various healthcare providers is one of the key roles of a primary care physician.Given the complex nature of chronic diseases, patients often require specialized care from different medical professionals.As the main healthcare provider, the primary care physician ensures seamless communication and collaboration among these specialists.This ensures that the care provided is cohesive and effective.

Patient Education and Empowerment

Apart from providing medical care, primary care physicians also empower patients to take control of their health. They educate patients about:

  • Their condition
  • The importance of adhering to their treatment plan
  • The lifestyle changes required to manage their disease better

By doing so, they equip patients to navigate their health journey confidently.

Monitoring Progress and Making Adjustments

Managing chronic conditions is not a one-time event but rather a continuous process that requires regular monitoring and adjustment.Primary care physicians regularly assess the effectiveness of a patient’s treatment plan. Then, they make necessary adjustments based on the patient’s progress and needs. They also monitor the patient’s overall health and well-being, identifying and addressing any new health issues that may arise.

How to Find the Best Primary Care Doctor

Here are some tips to help you find the best primary care doctor in Wellington.

Consider Your Health Needs

First, think about your health needs and which primary care model would suit you best. Understanding your health needs will help you narrow down your search.

Seek Recommendations

Ask your friends, family members, neighbors, or coworkers if they have a doctor they like and trust.Personal experiences can give you insights into the doctor’s approach to patient care, their professionalism, and their expertise.

Research Their Expertise

Look for a doctor with expertise that meets your health needs. If you have a specific chronic condition, you may want to find a doctor who specializes in treating that condition.Also, consider the doctor’s approach to healthcare.

Location and Accessibility

Consider the location of the doctor’s office. Is it close to your home or work? Does the office offer evening or weekend hours to accommodate your schedule?

Review Their Credentials

You can check if a doctor is in good standing with your state’s licensing agency through websites run by administrators of several state medical boards. You want a doctor who has a clean record and is board-certified.

When to See Your Primary Care Physician

Primary care physicians are not just for annual check-ups or when you’re feeling unwell. They play a crucial role in maintaining your overall health and managing chronic conditions.

Regular Health Check-Ups

Regular health check-ups are essential for detecting potential health issues before they become serious. These appointments allow your doctor to:

  • Assess your overall health
  • Monitor any existing conditions
  • Screen for risk factors of chronic diseases

Changes in Your Health Status

If you notice any changes in your health, it’s essential to see your primary care doctor. This could include:

  • New symptoms
  • Worsening of existing symptoms
  • Changes in your physical or mental well-being

Early detection of health issues often leads to more effective treatment and better outcomes.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Do you have a chronic condition like diabetes, heart disease, or asthma? If so, regular visits to your primary care doctor are crucial. These visits allow your doctor to:

  • Monitor your condition
  • Adjust your treatment plan as needed
  • Provide ongoing support to help you manage your health

Medication Refills or Adjustments

If you take prescription medication, you’ll need to see your primary care doctor for refills. These appointments also give your doctor the opportunity to assess how well the medication is working.

Preventive Care

Preventive care visits, such as immunizations and screenings, are another reason to see your primary care doctor.

Lifestyle Advice

Your primary care doctor can provide valuable advice on lifestyle changes to improve your health. This can include guidance on:

  • Nutrition
  • Physical activity
  • Stress management
  • Other aspects of healthy living

Top Primary Care Physician Near You in Wellington, FL

In the face of the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, the role of primary care physicians in managing these conditions is more critical than ever. Through their expertise, commitment, and patient-centric approach, they provide ongoing support to patients. They help people lead healthier and more fulfilling lives despite their chronic conditions.

Looking for the top primary care physician near you in Wellington? You can rely on the highly skilled and experienced healthcare providers at Advanced Medical. Led by Dr. Ishan Gunawardene, our team will make sure you get the best care for your chronic condition. You may reach out to our friendly staff today at (561) 434-1935. You can also book a visit with the best primary care physician in Wellington with our secure online appointment request form.

We look forward to helping you manage your chronic condition!

Primary Care Physician: A Comprehensive Guide to Quality Care

Your primary care physician plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health. They are the front line of defense in detecting, preventing, and managing various medical conditions. By understanding the responsibilities of a primary care physician and carefully selecting the right provider, you can ensure that you receive the comprehensive, high-quality care you deserve.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the importance of having a primary care physician.

What is a Primary Care Physician?

A primary care physician is a medical professional who provides comprehensive, continuous, and coordinated healthcare services to patients.

There are different types of primary care physicians, including family medicine doctors, internal medicine doctors, and pediatricians.

The Role of a Primary Care Physician

A primary care physician serves as the main point of contact for patients when it comes to their healthcare needs. They are responsible for:

Diagnosing and Treating Common Medical Conditions

Primary care physicians are skilled in diagnosing and managing a wide range of health issues. From the common cold to chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension, they can help.

Promoting Preventive care

Primary care physicians emphasize the importance of preventive care. This includes regular check-ups, screenings, and immunizations.

By catching potential health issues early, they can help patients avoid more severe complications.

Coordinating Care with Specialists

When patients require specialized care, the primary care physician will refer them to an appropriate specialist and coordinate their care.

They will also help the patient understand the specialist’s recommendations and ensure that all necessary tests and treatments are completed.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Primary care physicians play a crucial role in managing patients with chronic health issues. Diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are examples of these conditions.

Providing Health Education and Counseling

Primary care physicians educate patients on various health topics, including nutrition, exercise, and stress management.

They also provide counseling and support for patients dealing with mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.

How to Choose a Primary Care Physician

Selecting the right primary care physician is essential for maintaining your health and well-being. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a primary care physician:

Board Certification

Ensure that the physician you choose is board-certified in their specialty. This certification indicates that the doctor has completed rigorous training and testing in their field.

Experience and Expertise

Look for a physician with experience treating patients with similar health concerns or demographics as yours.

If you have a specific medical condition, find a doctor specializing in it.

Location and Availability

Choose a primary care physician with a convenient office location and hours that fit your schedule.

Additionally, inquire about their availability for same-day appointments and after-hours care.

Communication Style

It’s crucial to find a doctor who communicates effectively and listens to your concerns.

During your initial visit, observe how they interact with you. See whether they take the time to answer your questions and address your concerns.

Insurance Coverage

Verify that the primary care physician you’re considering accepts your insurance plan. Do so to avoid any unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

Patient Reviews

Read online reviews from other patients to get a sense of the physician’s bedside manner, communication style, and overall patient satisfaction.

The Importance of Establishing a Relationship with Your Primary Care Physician

Building a strong relationship with your primary care physician is vital for several reasons:

Continuity of Care

A long-term relationship with your primary care physician allows them to better understand your medical history, lifestyle, and health goals.

Preventive Care

Regular visits with your primary care physician help ensure that you receive timely preventive care. This includes screenings and vaccinations, which can detect potential health issues early on.

Better Communication

When you have an established relationship with your primary care physician, you may feel more comfortable discussing sensitive health concerns.

Improved Health Outcomes

Patients with a strong relationship with their primary care physician experience better overall health outcomes, including lower hospitalization rates and emergency room visits.

Primary Care Physician Near You in Wellington, FL

Looking for the most trusted primary care physician near you in Wellington? You can rely on the healthcare providers at Advanced Medical Clinic, the best Wellington family practice. Our team of dedicated, compassionate, board-certified doctors is proud to offer comprehensive,personalized care to you and your family members. Whether you are feeling like you have flu or need help managing chronic conditions like diabetes, you can rely on our team.

To schedule a consultation with one of our primary care doctors, call us today at(561) 434-1935 or fill out our convenient online appointment request form.

4 Tips for Choosing Your Primary Care Physician

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 doctor 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 doctor to entrust your health with:

1.  Determine The Type Of Doctor That Suits Your Needs

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

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

Patients should know their doctor’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 doctor, research their qualifications. This includes their medical education, residency, and board certification.It is highly recommended that patients seek board-certified physicians. This serves as a strong indicator of their expertise and competency in their field.

Consider Management Practices

A doctor 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 doctor’s office staff should be knowledgeable and helpful in supporting your needs.

2.  Look For A Doctor Who Shows Compassion And Professionalism

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

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

Moreover, a doctor 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 Doctor Who Is Experienced In Diagnosing And Treating Several Conditions

Competent primary care physicians 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 doctor 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 doctor who can provide consistent and continuous care over time. This allows for the development of a strong doctor-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 doctor covered by your insurance will help you avoid high out-of-pocket expenses.

Coordinates Care With Specialists

When specialist care is necessary, excellent doctors 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 “doctor referral” goes beyond a casual suggestion or recommendation. It is when a primary care physician recommends a patient to receive specialized medical attention or particular services.

This system aims to simplify the communication process between doctors regarding a patient’s healthcare requirements.Primary care physicians 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 doctor. 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 doctor. Online forums can also help you find the best provider for a specific chronic condition or disability.

Primary Care Physician 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 doctor 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 primary care physician 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 physician in Royal Palm Beach by using our online form. Don’t leave your healthcare to chance—opt for a trusted, dedicated primary care physician at Advanced Medical Clinic.

7 Tips for Finding a Family Medicine Facility Near You

There are many things to consider when trying to find a family medicine facility near you. With all the different factors you need to look out for, finding a facility near you can often feel like an overwhelming task – but it doesn’t have to be. Here are seven tips for finding the best family medicine facility for yourself and your family near you.

1. Consider the Location

When finding the right family medicine facility, you want to make sure it’s in the right location. Most often, we find patients only want to travel within 30 minutes of their home or office to see their primary care physician. If you’re searching for a family medicine doctor for yourself and your loved ones around Wellington or Royal Palm Beach, Florida, consider a convenient facility like Advanced Medical Clinic.

2. Ask About Services

When choosing a family medicine doctor to be your primary care provider, you want to make sure they offer the services you and your loved ones need. Common family medicine services patients typically search for when looking for a family medicine doctor include:

  • School, work, and sports physicals
  • Chronic condition management
  • Treatment for a cough, cold, or flu
  • Mental health treatment
  • Treatment for car accidents/trauma

3. Look for Board-Certified Doctors

One of the most important factors to consider when finding a primary care family medicine provider near you is finding a board-certified doctor with plenty of experience. Board certifications are indications for patients that a doctor is highly trained in their field. It means they could take and pass an all-encompassing medical exam in their field. Board certifications hold their doctors to high standards, ensuring you get the care you need and deserve.

4. Ask About Referrals

Your primary care family medicine doctor should be your go-to resource for all your medical needs – including referrals to specialists if you need them. Patients are often recommended to specialists if a primary care provider finds abnormalities or signs of a specific condition that a specialist in that field can better treat. For example, if you’re having signs of a heart condition, your family medicine doctor should be able to refer you to a skilled and qualified cardiologist.

5. Consider Insurance Coverage

It’s important to be practical about your health care, including paying for your family medicine services. It’s always recommended to find a family medicine doctor covered by insurance to ensure your out-of-pocket fees are kept at a minimum. If you’re unsure whether your preferred facility takes your insurance, give them a quick call to ask or contact your insurance provider for more information.

6. Look for Reviews

Before the internet, people found family medicine doctors via word of mouth. Nowadays, there are reviews and testimonials that patients can use in the same way. Check out reviews for your facility of choice to see what real patients have to say about their experience with the practice and the doctor. The better the reviews, the more likely you’ll have a positive experience at the facility.

7. Think About Your Individual Needs

Finally, and most importantly, consider your and your family member’s individual needs. Does your child have diabetes and needs help with managing their insulin levels? Or do you find you have chronic UTIs and are looking for a long-term solution? These are the questions you should be asking yourself when considering a family medicine doctor near you. Remember, services are supposed to be tailored to your individual needs. Don’t be afraid to ask for personalized care.

Family Medicine Doctor 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 doctors is proud to offer comprehensive, personalized care to you and your family members. Whether you’re feeling like you have the flu or need help managing your chronic condition, you can rely on the doctors at Advanced Medical Clinic.

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

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 physicians, 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 physician 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 physician is a source for all your medical needs, including referrals to specialists in your area. High-quality primary care doctors 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 doctor can also help you continue your preventive care at home with tips on staying active and eating a healthy diet.

Your Primary Care Physician Knows You Best

Ultimately, it’s important to understand that your primary care physician 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 physicians 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 doctors, call us today at (561) 434-1935. You can also schedule a consultation using our convenient online appointment request form.

4 Healthy Tips from a Primary Care Physician Near You

It’s no denying that you need to avoid illnesses and practice healthy habitsto 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 doctor – your primary care doctor – whocanhelp you achieve and maintain good healthby fulfillingall your primary care needs and giving you some healthy tips.

Let’s talk about 4 healthy tips that your primary care doctor may advise you for living the healthiest and longest life and where you can find the best primary care doctor 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 doctor recommends you regularly get yourself screened for heart diseases, 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 youmust take an active role in your health and well-being. You should make intelligent health choices using the knowledge and skills your primary care doctor equips you with.

For example, if you have a chronic disease, such as diabetes, obesity, or hypertension, your primary care doctor 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 doctor 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 doctor 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 Doctor in Royal Palm Beach

At Advanced Medical in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida, our primary care doctors,Dr. Ishan Gunawardene and ShariffaGunawardene, are committed to providing you with comprehensive primary care and urgent care. Our primary care doctorsofferadvanced, evidence-based, individualized care tohelp you achieve good health and enjoy a long healthy life.

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

How To Find the Best Primary Care Physician for Your Health

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

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

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 physician who is a good fit for you. The first step is to decide what’s important to you as a doctor.

Do you prefer a male or female physician? Do you want someone who is available 24/7 or who has evening and weekend hours? How important is it to you that your doctor 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 physician. With a little time and effort, you’re sure to find a doctor 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 physician. Ask around and see if anyone you know has a doctor they love. If you have a specific health concern, see if anyone you know has a doctor they would recommend for that condition. You can also ask your friends and family if they know of any doctors who have a good bedside manner or who are especially helpful and caring.

Once you have some recommendations, do some research on the doctors 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 primary care physicians. When you’re looking for a new doctor, it can be helpful to read online reviews to get an idea of what other patients have experienced. Look for doctors with high ratings and positive reviews. Checking out reviews can help you find a primary care physician who is right for you.

Schedule a Consultation with the Physicians You’re Considering

It is important to schedule a consultation before making your final decision. This will give you a chance to meet the doctor 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 doctors you’re considering, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

If you’re looking for a top-tier physician 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!

Why Do You Need to Have a Family Medicine Doctor?

It would help if you saw a specialist when an issue particular to your body’s organ or system arises. However, what about the times when you aren’t aware of what’s going on with your body that’s causing your symptoms; you want to take care of the overall health of not only yourself but also your family; you need advice specific to your situation? A family medicine doctor is a medical professional who can be an answer for most such healthcare situations for you and your family. A family medicine doctor is trained to provide all sorts of care to patients of all ages for long-term – medical emergencies are an exception.

So, there is no reason not to have a family doctor caring for you (even if you don’t have a family), but there are many reasons why you should have one. Let’s talk about those reasons.

Reason #1 All Primary Care Needs of You and Your Family Can Be Addressed Under One Roof

As a primary care doctor, a family doctor can offer primary health care – providing treatment for common health complaints, the management of long-term illnesses such as heart disease, asthma, and diabetes, and prevention of future illnesses through advice, screening programs, and immunization – to people of all ages. A family doctor can also perform minor surgical procedures such as draining abscesses.

Since they master specific skill sets such as women’s health, geriatrics, obstetrics, and more, during their training, their office is the first stop of patients of all ages – from newborns to senior citizens – for primary health care needs. They also keep track of your family life cycle to provide you with comprehensive care.

Reason #2 You Can Connect with Specialists Timely and Easily

Your family doctor can indeed do a lot for you, but they can’t do everything, especially if your problem is related to a particular body system or organ, let’s say the heart. Only a specialist of an organ or system can treat such problems. Finding a trustworthy specialist within your budget and reliable can be stressful for you and your family.

Having a family doctor means your problem will be detected early, and you don’t have to be worried about finding a specialist. Family doctors are likely to have a relationship with many specialists and can refer you to the one you can be comfortable with. Moreover, they can also help you set an appointment with your new doctor without wasting much time.

Reason #3 You Can Get Better Health and Save Money at The Same Time

There’s no secret that healthcare can be pretty expensive, as is evident from the fact that even a short trip to the emergency room can cost you and your family a great deal of money. However, there is ample evidence that having a family doctor can significantly reduce healthcare spending.

A family doctor does so(reduce your healthcare spending)by keeping track of your health and preventing serious issues from developing, which could otherwise make you spend an extreme amount at the hospital or emergency room.

Family Medicine Doctor Near Me in Wellington and Royal Palm Beach, Florida

At Advanced Medical Clinic, our nurse practitioner Shariffa Gunawardene provides comprehensive, evidence-based, and personalized care that you need to return your family to health and keep you well. Because of her comprehensive and compassionate care, you or your family members with acute or chronic illnesses can live healthier lives. To make an accurate diagnosis, we also offer on-site conveniences, including pulmonary function tests, EKG, echocardiography, and blood draw.

If you have a question about our services or would like to schedule an appointment with our doctors, call our staff today at  (561) 434-1935 or complete our secure online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!

 

Tips for Managing Arthritis Pain

If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from arthritis, you know that finding ways to effectively manage the pain that comes with your condition is central to maintaining your mobility and overall quality of life.

In this post, you’ll learn about a few strategies that can help you ease arthritis pain and live well with it.

Tip #1 Make Positive Lifestyle Changes.

While the medications and other treatments that your doctor prescribed can help manage arthritis pain, the very things that you do on a daily basis have a significant impact on the outcome of your condition.

Having a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet and regular exercise can help with gradual weight loss and reduce your risk for flare-ups. Weight is of particular concern because the additional strain on your affected joint can cause further damage to it. Excess weight and chronic inflammation also go hand in hand.

If you smoke, it’s time to snuff the habit. Cigarette smoke makes arthritis pain worse, as it triggers the body to release cytokines, which are key modulators of inflammation.

Tip #2 Work Closely with Your Primary Care Physician.

Your primary care physician is an integral part of your healthcare team. They are not only there to coordinate your care and monitor your condition; they also serve as your accountability partner – to provide you with support and guidance, ensure treatment adherence, and reinforce healthy lifestyle changes.

Tip #3 Learn to Cope with Stress.

Research suggests that stress compounds the discomfort associated with arthritis, as it can cause endocrine and immune system dysfunction, leading to sustained low-grade inflammation.

While it can be easy to be pulled down by your negative thoughts when dealing with arthritis pain, always keep in mind that focusing on them will only make things worse. It will not only exacerbate the pain but also contribute to the progression of your condition.

There are many things you can do to cope with stress. Employ relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing. Surround yourself with people you love and who support you. Additionally, consider talking to a therapist or joining a support group; your doctor may be able to recommend one for you. Respond to unwanted thoughts by taking positive action.

Primary Care Physician in Wellington, FL

At Advanced Medical Clinic, our team includes a board-certified internal medicine physician and a board-certified family nurse practitioner, who have helped scores of patients suffering from arthritis and many other chronic health problems live and thrive with their conditions.

Call us today at (561) 434-1935 or book an appointment online to arrange a consultation with Dr. Gunawardene or our family NP, Shariffa Gunawardene. We look forward to providing you with the high-quality health care you deserve!

A Checklist in Choosing the Best Family Doctor

It’s important to find the best doctor, whether for routine checkups or a major surgery. By doing so, you can be confident in the care you receive every time.

After all, your health largely hinges on the treatment they recommend and administer for you. Let’s talk about the key factors in finding an excellent family physician, and where you can go in Wellington for top-notch medical care for you and your family.

How to Find an Outstanding Family Physician

Here’s what you should consider when choosing the best family doctor:

Get Referrals and Recommendations

Your family doctor will be your primary care physician, so you can start looking by asking the people you trust. Talk to your family, friends, or colleagues about family doctors they recommend. You can even ask other doctors you’ve worked with for referrals, such as your endocrinologist or your eye doctor.

You can go online and read the doctor’s patient reviews posted on various websites to get a feel for what they’re like. There may also be testimonials from some of their current and previous patients.

Consider Your Insurance

Once you have names of doctors to consider, check your health insurance coverage to make sure they’re covered by your insurance policy. If you’re interested in a doctor who is not on your list, then call that doctor’s office and ask them whether they do indeed accept your particular insurance – and be sure to write down the name of the staff person you spoke to.

Check the Family Doctor’s Qualifications and Experience

When looking for a healthcare provider, the lead doctor in the practice should ideally be board-certified. Board certification means that a doctor is staying on top of the latest in medical technologies and methods, and this involves continuing education at medical conferences and seminars.

Being board-certified indicates career-long learning, so you can rest assured that the doctor continues to hone their skills. You do not want a family physician who continues to perform the same tests and methods they learned in medical school if physicians today are actually using much more advanced methods and technologies for more accurate and beneficial results.

Experience is also crucial. Your ideal family doctor will have spent much of their time caring for patients with similar conditions as you have, because family physicians by nature deal with patients who have myriad health conditions on a constant basis.

If you want to be sure, call the practice and ask them whether the doctor handles patients who have chronic conditions like yours – whether it be arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and so on. Do not hesitate to make that call.

Think About Convenience

Choose a healthcare provider who has a convenient location and has office hours that work with your schedule. You do not want inconvenience to become an excuse not to go to the doctor for a checkup.

Family Doctor for Arthritis in Wellington, FL

It’s important to find a primary care provider in whom you can place your full confidence, especially if you have a chronic condition such as arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, a neurological condition, or anything else. If you’re looking for a trusted family doctor whose office is conveniently located in Wellington, look no further than Advanced Medical Clinic. We have a team of highly experienced, board-certified providers who can give you the comprehensive care you deserve.

Advanced Medical Clinic is located in the Palomino Park medical complex on the west side of Highway 441, between Forest Hill Boulevard and Lake Worth Road in Wellington. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call our friendly staff today at (561) 434-1935 or complete our secure online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!