What is primary care?
Primary care is a branch of medicine that specializes in whole-person care. Primary care physicians, like those at Valley Internal Medicine Associates, diagnose and treat a variety of chronic and acute health problems. They also:
- Monitor your health against your lifestyle goals
- Care for most diseases
- Provide coordination of care with specialists
- Offer health counseling
- Answer patient questions and concerns
Additionally, primary care physicians provide education and guidance. The more you know about your health, the easier it is to make decisions regarding diet, exercise, and sleep.
What services does primary care include?
Valley Internal Medicine Associates offers a variety of primary care services, including:
Preventive primary care
Preventive primary care uses screenings to catch serious health problems early on. Some of the most common preventive screening procedures include Pap tests, mammograms, prostate exams, and colorectal cancer screenings.
Annual physicals
An annual physical is a doctor’s appointment used to check-in on your general health and well-being. It presents an opportunity to discuss unusual symptoms and to build a relationship with Dr. Sathiyaraj George. If necessary, you can also refill prescription medications and monitor your treatment progress over time.
Immunizations
Immunizations or vaccinations promote the creation of antibodies. Antibodies protect your immune system from harmful invaders like viruses and bacteria. Some of the most common immunizations include measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR); hepatitis A and hepatitis B; the seasonal flu shot; polio; and the chickenpox vaccine.
Essential tests
Valley Internal Medicine Associates offers a variety of essential testing procedures, including:
- Lab tests
- Ultrasounds
- Treadmill testing
- Peripheral vascular studies
- Bladder scans
- Audiometry and tympanometry
- Electrocardiogram (EKG)
- Echocardiogram
- Carotid and venous doppler
- Continuous blood glucose monitoring
- Diabetic retinopathy screening
- Holter exam
- DEXA scan
- Spirometry
Patients can also access ambulatory blood pressure monitoring for hypertension.
Treatment of asthma
Asthma is a common respiratory condition that causes your airways to narrow, swell, and produce extra mucus. No matter the severity of your asthma, Valley Internal Medicine Associates provides safe, effective treatments that can ease symptoms, making it easier for you to breathe.
Treatment of joint pain
As you get older, you’re also more likely to experience musculoskeletal problems like joint pain. Valley Internal Medicine Associates offers minimally invasive joint injections that can ease inflammation and improve your mobility.
Can I benefit from primary care?
Anyone who wants to live a healthy, active, and pain-free lifestyle can benefit from primary care. Visiting Valley Internal Medicine Associates at least once a year is an easy and effective way to lower your risk of disease, ensuring you age gracefully.
If you have a chronic condition, you can also partake in the chronic care management program. This treatment regimen can help you better manage your symptoms, lowering your risk of a lengthy stay in a hospital or emergency room.
To schedule a primary care appointment with Valley Internal Medicine Associates, call the office to speak with a team member or book a consultation online today.
