Prevention key to good health

SANDPOINT — No matter the area of life, it’s always better to avoid problems than to fix them.

The same concept holds true for health care.

With the changes introduced by Affordable Care Act, preventative care will be more important than ever, according to local health care professionals. Since the government now requires that preventative care screenings be covered by health insurance, the route could end up being the most affordable route for people seeking to minimize health expenses.

Michelle Anderson, owner of Pend Oreillle Health Care, recommended that attendees of last week’s chamber luncheon consider making an annual wellness exam a part of their yearly routine.

“This is one of the most valuable sessions you can schedule with your health care provider,” she said.

 An annual wellness exam is a multifaceted appointment that involves both verbal consultation and a thorough physical. Much like a regular servicing and check-up appointment for your vehicle, an annual wellness exam helps ensure your body operates trouble-free throughout the year.

According to Anderson, the appointment typically begins with an overview of recent medical history and any complaints that may have arisen along the way. The conversation will also cover allergies, surgical history and genetic factors. Afterward, the patient and physician discuss lifestyle choices that affect health like the level of alcohol consumption, tobacco use, eating habits and sources of exercise.

If the patient notes any discomfort, pain or other unpleasantness that manifested since the last visit, the physician then attempts to get to the bottom of the problem.

The examination doesn’t deal solely with health recommendations. Doctors also seek to ensure that their patients are living safely, too. Guidelines for following the correct safety procedures for driving, recreational sports or other common activities can often be a part of a wellness examination.

“An individual’s safety is very important (to doctors),” Anderson said.

Of course, the examination includes a head-to-toe physical check-up. Health care providers listen to the patient’s heartbeat, listening for irregular rhythms or murmurs. They screen for common forms of cancer. Other physical staples, like blood pressure testing, respiratory health check-ups and weight measuring also make an appearance. After the care-giver has an idea of the patient’s physical condition, he or she lays out health goals to meet for next year’s check-up.

Anderson said individuals who make a yearly wellness exam one of their priorities can expect better guidance and a clearer vision for their health throughout the rest of the year.

“The great thing about this examination is that it leads to more accurate medical care all year long,” she said.