Virtual Primary Care: Prevention & Wellness

June 29, 2022

Dr. Brittany Brooks, Assistant Director of Virtual Primary Care

Even if you’re feeling healthy, an annual wellness check is important for your long-term health. There are certain diseases and conditions that you may not feel or see coming – but being proactive can empower you to make informed decisions about your body. By scheduling regular visits with your primary care doctor, you can: 


  • Reduce your risk of illness. Some issues are common within a family and are passed down through your genes. When your primary care doctor is aware of them, they can help you make sure you get the right screenings and keep an eye out for warning signs.
  • Save money. Detecting a condition in its early stages can significantly lower costs for treatment. For example, detecting prediabetes before it becomes type 2 diabetes can be the difference between simple lifestyle changes and the need for ongoing medication and specialist appointments. 

Preventive care typically consists of ongoing visits (at least one per year) with your primary care doctor, who will address your health concerns and make sure you’re doing everything you need to protect your long-term health. 
 

 

Virtual primary care makes preventive care easier. 

Virtual primary care is just what it sounds like: The ability to talk to your primary care doctor via phone or video. Appointments are conducted virtually, but your doctor will refer you to in-person (and in-network) care if needed. So if you don’t need in-person care, you don’t have to go anywhere! Most employers offer this benefit free of charge. 

 

 

What can my virtual primary care doctor do for me? 

At your first visit, your First Stop Health doctor will get to know your personal and family health history, ask questions, listen to your concerns, and make recommendations for your current and future health. These recommendations may include: 

  • Tests & Screenings  
    Our primary care doctors can help assess whether you need certain screenings. Depending upon your age or certain risk factors, you may be due for a cancer screening. Your doctor can provide mental health screenings, as well.
  • Specialist Visits
    Just like at an in-person visit, virtual primary care doctors can refer you to in-network specialists, such as cardiologists, dermatologists, gastroenterologists, OB-GYNs and urologists. 
     
  • Vaccinations 
    Our doctors can review your vaccination history to make sure you’re up-to-date and help you protect yourself from illness. 
  • Lifestyle Changes
    Looking to make a change to your lifestyle? Get the support you need from your primary care doctor. Together, you can make a plan to quit smoking, lose weight, improve your mental health and more.


 


Get started with virtual primary care.

If your employer or school offers you First Stop Health Virtual Primary Care, our doctors are here to provide care you will love. During your first visit, your doctor will get to know your personal and family health history, ask questions, listen to your concerns, and make recommendations for your current and future health.   

Schedule a Visit

Originally published Jun 29, 2022 2:25:52 PM.