By Susan Taplinger
How to Program a Healthy New Year
The beginning of January is the perfect time to plan for the year ahead, and to take stock of your annual medical needs. While many factors go into programming a healthy year, scheduling your physical examination and other routine appointments is a great way to start. The National Library of Medicine states that the frequency of your checkups depends on your age and status of health, but it is recommended that everyone sees their health care provider regularly.
Dynarex offers a full line of premium physician care supplies to keep medical practices fully stocked with outstanding products. |
The Power of a Plan
Making the effort to plan in advance will keep you better organized and prepared. Start by making a list of your current medical providers and their contact information. Then schedule your appointments, including any you may have been putting off – such as the dentist, dermatologist, gynecologist, or eye doctor. Consider using a reminder app so you won’t forget.
Here are some tips to make the most of your upcoming appointments:
| Organize all your medical information: Make sure to include all medications you are taking, the doctors you are seeing, any test results, your family history, etc. Provide pre-visit information: Fill out any pre-visit questionnaires and complete any required tests. You and your physician will have the opportunity to discuss the results at your meeting. List your concerns: Make a complete list of any concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing, and bring it to your appointment. |
During your appointment, your doctor may share a large amount of detailed information—and you will want to be able to remember it all. Take notes on any recommendations and instructions, and don’t be afraid to ask questions until you understand everything clearly. Record this information and keep it with the rest of your medical information for easy access.
Following Through
As soon as your appointment is complete, take action to schedule any follow-ups, including:
| Your next appointment: Don’t wait – get the next visit on the calendar in a timely manner. Lab work: Determine when and where you need to go to have lab work performed and program it into your trusty calendar. Prescriptions: Enter prescription refill reminders on your calendar so you always have plenty of time before running out. Visits with specialists: Make and record any recommended appointments with providers such as cardiologists, orthopedists, or endocrinologists. |
New Year, New Commitments
Take control of this year and commit to organizing your calendar to fit your medical needs. Instead of telling yourself that you’ll get it done later, plan ahead so that you can be better prepared for the year. Getting all your appointments and information in order is a great way to be more engaged in your health care. Follow through on these plans to organize a healthy 2023 and beyond!
