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Direct Primary Care Clinic

Tag: patient-centered care

Spring Clean Your Health: Preventive Screenings to Book This Season
As the weather warms and we start refreshing our homes, schedules, and routines, spring is also the perfect time to focus on your health. Just like you would declutter your living space, it is important to “spring clean” your health. It is a great idea to check in on your body and make sure everything is working well. Some health problems can start quietly without making you feel sick. They can catch problems early when they are easier to treat.

Here are some check-ups and screenings you should think about this spring:

1. Annual Wellness Visit

Even if you feel fine, you should see your physician once a year.
They will check your blood pressure, update your vaccines, and ask how you are feeling. This visit helps you stay healthy and catch small problems before they get bigger.

2. Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Check

High blood pressure and high cholesterol can hurt your heart and blood vessels.
You might not feel any different, so it is important to get checked.

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States. High blood pressure and high cholesterol often have no symptoms, making regular screenings critical. A simple blood test and blood pressure reading can provide valuable insight into your cardiovascular health.

3. Blood Sugar Screening

Checking your blood sugar levels can help detect early signs of diabetes or prediabetes. Early detection means more options for prevention and management, potentially reversing the course with lifestyle changes alone.

4. Cancer Screenings

Depending on your age, family history, and risk factors, certain cancer screenings may be recommended:
- Breast Cancer: Mammograms typically begin around age 40, but individual recommendations may vary.
- Cervical Cancer: Women should have regular Pap smears and HPV testing as advised.
- Colorectal Cancer: Colonoscopies or other stool-based screening tests generally start at age 45.
- Skin Cancer: A full-body skin check can help identify suspicious moles or spots early. Speak with your physician about what screenings are appropriate for you.
- Lung Cancer: People who have smoked a lot may need yearly lung scans between ages 50 and 80.
5. Bone Density Scan

As we get older, our bones can become weaker. For women over 65—or earlier if you have risk factors—a bone density scan can help detect osteoporosis before fractures occur. Maintaining bone health is crucial for staying active and independent as you age.

6. Vision and Hearing Tests

Your senses are vital to your quality of life. Routine vision and hearing checks can catch changes that might otherwise go unnoticed, ensuring you continue to engage fully with the world around you.

7. Mental Health Check-In

Your feelings matter too!
Doctors recommend checking for depression and anxiety during regular visits.
It is important to talk about your feelings just like you talk about your body. Spring can be a wonderful time to reflect on your mental health, discuss any stress, anxiety, or mood changes with your physician, and explore resources if needed.

8. Dental Check-Up

Your teeth and gums need care too!
Dentists recommend getting a dental check-up and cleaning every 6 months.
Regular visits help prevent cavities, gum disease, and bigger problems down the road.

Take Charge of Your Health This Spring

Think of preventive screenings as the ultimate form of self-care. They empower you with knowledge, promote early intervention, and support your long-term wellness goals. By investing a little time in your health this season, you set yourself up for a vibrant and healthy year ahead.

At Everwell Health Solutions, we believe that prevention is the best medicine. If you are ready to schedule your wellness visit or need guidance on which screenings are right for you, we are here to help.

Let us help you Spring clean your health!

Reach out today and let us support your journey toward better health!
May 7, 2025
Hydration Hacks: Easy Ways to Drink More Water Every Day
Most of us know that drinking enough water is important for our health, but actually doing it can be a different story. Between busy schedules, endless to-do lists, and simply forgetting, it is easy to fall short of our hydration goals. Fortunately, staying hydrated does not have to feel like a chore. With a few simple strategies, you can make drinking water an effortless part of your day.

Here are some easy hydration hacks to help you drink more water, every day:

1. Start Your Morning with Water

Before you reach for your coffee or tea, drink a full glass of water. Overnight, your body becomes slightly dehydrated, so giving it a fresh supply of water first thing can help wake you up, boost your metabolism, and set a healthy tone for the rest of the day.

2. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle

Having water within arm’s reach makes it much more likely that you will sip throughout the day. Choose a bottle that you love—whether it is sleek, colorful, or has time markers to track your intake—and keep it with you at work, in the car, or even at home.

3. Add Natural Flavor

If plain water feels boring, infuse it with natural flavors. Add slices of lemon, cucumber, berries, mint, or even a splash of 100% fruit juice. Not only does this make water more appealing, but it can also provide a small boost of vitamins and antioxidants.

4. Use a Straw

It may sound simple, but drinking through a straw can actually help you drink more water without even realizing it. Many people find that they sip more frequently and consume larger volumes when using a straw compared to sipping from a cup.

5. Set Small Goals

Rather than aiming for a large number of ounces all at once, break your hydration goals into smaller, more manageable pieces. For example, try to drink one glass of water every two hours or finish half your water bottle by lunchtime.

6. Pair Water with Daily Activities

Associate drinking water with habits you already have. For instance:
- Drink a glass of water after every bathroom break.
- Sip water while checking your emails.
- Keep a glass on your nightstand and drink before bed.
By connecting water intake to established routines, it becomes a natural part of your day.

7. Eat Water-Rich Foods

You can boost your hydration through your diet, too. Foods like cucumbers, watermelon, strawberries, oranges, and lettuce are packed with water and can contribute to your overall fluid intake.

8. Use Reminders or Apps

Set gentle reminders on your phone or smartwatch to prompt you to drink throughout the day. There are also apps designed specifically to track your water intake and send notifications when it is time for your next sip.

9. Make It a Challenge

Sometimes a little friendly competition helps. Challenge yourself—or a friend—to meet daily water goals for a week. Reward yourself with something enjoyable (non-food related!) when you reach your milestones.

Bottom Line:
Hydration is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to support your overall health. By making water more accessible, enjoyable, and routine, you can easily increase your daily intake without feeling overwhelmed. Your body, brain, skin, and energy levels will thank you!

What is your favorite trick? Tell us about it by reaching out or checking our or social media.
April 30, 2025
Primary Care and Mental Health: The Vital Connection
In today’s healthcare landscape, the integration of mental health into primary care is more critical than ever. Whole-person health is not just a concept; it is a necessity. Mental well-being has a profound impact on physical health, and primary care physicians are uniquely positioned to bridge this gap, ensuring comprehensive care for their patients.

Why Primary Care is Key to Mental Health Support

For many individuals, their primary care physician is the first point of contact for health concerns, including mental health struggles. These longstanding relationships foster trust, making it easier for patients to discuss sensitive issues such as anxiety, depression, or stress. Additionally, primary care settings, especially direct primary care, provide accessible and familiar spaces, reducing barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking mental health support.

The Mind-Body Connection

Mental health and physical health are deeply intertwined. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep disturbances, and chronic pain. Conversely, lifestyle factors such as nutrition, physical activity, and preventive healthcare can significantly impact mental well-being. By addressing both aspects simultaneously, primary care physicians can help patients achieve better overall health outcomes.

Barriers to Mental Health Care and How Primary Care Can Help

Despite the importance of mental health care, barriers such as stigma, limited access to mental health professionals, and time constraints in traditional healthcare settings often hinder patients from receiving the support they need. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in normalizing mental health conversations, providing screenings, and connecting patients with the right resources. Direct Primary Care (DPC) models further enhance this by allowing for longer, more meaningful patient interactions and easier accessibility to care.

The Role of Primary Care in Prevention and Early Intervention

Early intervention is key to managing mental health conditions before they escalate. Routine mental health screenings during physical exams help identify early signs of stress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, primary care physicians can offer proactive support through lifestyle recommendations, stress management techniques, and preventive care strategies, helping patients maintain long-term well-being.

Integrated Care and the Collaborative Approach

Whole-person healthcare involves collaboration between primary care physicians, therapists, psychiatrists, and wellness professionals. A well-coordinated care plan that integrates mental and physical health leads to improved patient outcomes. Whether it is through direct referrals, shared care plans, or a multidisciplinary approach, collaboration strengthens patient care and ensures that no aspect of health is overlooked.

Everwell Health Solutions’ Approach to Whole-Person Care

At Everwell Health Solutions, we emphasize the importance of accessibility, prevention, and wellness. Our Direct Primary Care model allows us to provide personalized, patient-centered care that supports both physical and mental health. By offering a space where patients feel comfortable discussing all aspects of their well-being, we help them take control of their health journey.

Practical Strategies for Integrating Mental Health into Primary Care
- Routine Mental Health Check-Ins: Incorporating mental health discussions into regular visits.
- Patient Education: Helping patients understand the connection between mental and physical health.
- Strong Referral Networks: Building connections with local mental health professionals for seamless patient care.
The Power of Whole-Person Care

Whole-person care leads to better health outcomes by addressing both physical and mental well-being. It improves chronic disease management, enhances patient engagement, and fosters a higher quality of life. By prioritizing integrated care, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive the support they need to thrive.

Conclusion Mental health is an essential component of overall health. By integrating mental health care into primary care, physicians can provide comprehensive support that improves patients’ lives. At Everwell Health Solutions, we are committed to this holistic approach, ensuring that every patient receives the care they deserve.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today. Your health—both mental and physical—matters.
March 26, 2025
What is Preventative Healthcare?
Preventative healthcare is a proactive approach to health that focuses on preventing illness before it occurs, rather than simply managing diseases once they develop. This type of care emphasizes maintaining overall health and avoiding chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers through regular screenings, vaccinations, lifestyle changes, and health education. The goal of preventative healthcare is to reduce the burden of disease, improve quality of life, and decrease healthcare costs over time.

Why is Preventative Healthcare Important?

Preventative healthcare is widely recognized as essential for improving public health outcomes and reducing the financial burden of healthcare systems worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 90% of the nation’s healthcare costs are for people with chronic and mental health conditions, many of which could be prevented through early intervention (CDC, 2022). By focusing on prevention, individuals can live longer, healthier lives and minimize the need for costly treatments for preventable conditions.
1. Early Detection of Diseases: Many diseases, including cancers and chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes, may not present obvious symptoms in their early stages. Routine screenings, such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and cholesterol tests, allow healthcare providers to detect potential issues before they become severe. Early detection can lead to more effective treatments and better outcomes (National Institutes of Health, NIH).
2. Lifestyle Management: Preventative healthcare encourages healthy behaviors such as regular physical activity, healthy eating, and managing stress. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), unhealthy lifestyles are one of the leading contributors to chronic diseases. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol can significantly reduce the risk of developing conditions like heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers (WHO, 2020).
3. Health Education: Preventative healthcare includes education about healthy practices and the importance of regular health check-ups. The American Medical Association (JAMA) reports that well-informed individuals are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors and seek regular screenings, ultimately reducing their risk of developing serious health conditions (JAMA, 2021).
Key Components of Preventative Healthcare
1. Screenings and Health Check-ups: Regular health screenings are critical for detecting diseases early. This includes tests for high blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, cancer, and other potential health risks. For example, colorectal cancer screening has been shown to reduce cancer-related mortality by detecting cancer early when treatment is more effective (NIH, 2021).
2. Vaccinations: Immunizations are a key component of preventative care, helping protect individuals from infectious diseases. The CDC emphasizes the importance of vaccines like the flu vaccine, HPV vaccine, and others, which prevent disease outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations (CDC, 2021). Vaccines not only prevent personal illness but also help protect communities through herd immunity.
3. Lifestyle Modifications: Preventative healthcare promotes making healthy lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritious foods, staying physically active, and reducing stress. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, lifestyle changes can reduce the incidence of diabetes and heart disease by up to 60% in high-risk individuals (NEJM, 2019).
4. Mental Health: Mental health is equally important in the realm of preventative care. Addressing mental health early through counseling, stress management, and social support can prevent the development of serious mental health issues like depression and anxiety. The NIH highlights that improving mental health care can lead to significant reductions in healthcare spending and improved quality of life (NIH, 2020).
How Preventative Healthcare Benefits You

Investing in preventative care has far-reaching benefits. According to the CDC, every dollar spent on immunizations and preventative health screenings saves between $3 and $10 in treatment costs down the line. Furthermore, preventative healthcare helps individuals maintain physical, mental, and emotional well-being throughout their lives, avoiding unnecessary medical procedures and improving overall productivity and quality of life.

By prioritizing preventative healthcare, individuals can reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions, lower healthcare costs, and increase their chances of living a longer, healthier life.

At Everwell Health Solutions, we are committed to helping you stay ahead of potential health issues through personalized care that emphasizes prevention. We provide regular check-ups, support for healthy lifestyle changes, and education to keep you on the path to wellness. Let us help you achieve optimal health today for a brighter, healthier future.

If you would like to discuss this, schedule a free consultation or appointment with Everwell Health Solutions: https://everwellhealthsolutions.akutehealth.com/appointments.

Sources:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Chronic Diseases in America. Retrieved from CDC website.
2. National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2021). Preventive Health Services. Retrieved from NIH website.
3. World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). Noncommunicable Diseases. Retrieved from WHO website.
4. American Medical Association (JAMA). (2021). Prevention and Early Detection of Chronic Diseases. Retrieved from JAMA website.
5. New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM). (2019). Lifestyle Changes and Chronic Disease Prevention. Retrieved from NEJM website.
March 19, 2025
What is Primary Care?

Primary care is the foundation of the healthcare system, focusing on providing continuous, comprehensive care to patients. It’s the first point of contact for individuals seeking medical attention, offering a wide range of services that address most of your health needs. Primary care providers (PCPs) are typically family physicians, internists, pediatricians, or nurse practitioners who are skilled in treating patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly.

Here’s what you can expect from primary care:

1. Comprehensive Health Management

Primary care physicians are trained to manage and treat a variety of health conditions, ranging from acute illnesses like the flu to chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension. They aim to offer holistic care by considering your overall well-being rather than focusing on isolated symptoms.

2. Preventive Care

A key component of primary care is preventive health. Your primary care provider will help you take steps to prevent diseases and manage risk factors early on. This includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, screening for cancers, and providing health advice on lifestyle changes such as nutrition and exercise.

3. Long-Term Relationships

Primary care providers often build long-term relationships with their patients, which leads to a deeper understanding of their health history, preferences, and needs. This continuity helps improve diagnosis accuracy, treatment effectiveness, and overall patient satisfaction.

4. Coordination of Care

Primary care providers also serve as coordinators for any specialized care that may be required. If you need to see a specialist for a particular condition, your primary care physician will guide you, ensuring that all aspects of your care are integrated.

5. Access to Your Physician

One of the major benefits of primary care is easy access to a physician who knows you and your health background. Whether it’s a quick question, a follow-up on a treatment plan, or guidance on an emerging issue, you can reach out to your PCP for advice and care.

6. Mental and Emotional Health

Your primary care provider is also a valuable resource for mental and emotional health. They can help you manage conditions such as stress, anxiety, or depression and refer you to counseling or psychiatric services if needed.

Why Primary Care Matters

Having a primary care provider is essential for both short-term and long-term health. They help prevent serious health issues, catch potential concerns early, and offer consistent care tailored to your unique needs. In a world where health systems are often complex and fragmented, primary care is the continuity that ensures you’re getting the best care possible.

At Everwell Health Solutions, we understand the importance of personalized, accessible, and preventive care. As a Direct Primary Care clinic, we focus on offering comprehensive services that go beyond just treating illnesses. By developing a lasting relationship with you, we help prioritize your wellness through proactive care, easy access to your physician, and the support you need to stay healthy. Whether you are seeking preventive health guidance, managing a chronic condition, or simply want to take control of your health journey, we are here to partner with you every step of the way.

To find out more about what we offer, check out our site: https://everwellhealthsolutions.com/primary-care-services/.

February 19, 2025
My Journey to Direct Primary Care

From Traditional Medicine to Direct Primary Care: My Journey to Everwell Health Solutions

When I began my career as a physician, I was driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference in my patients’ lives. Like many physicians, I worked within the hospital-based healthcare system, where I quickly realized that the system itself was hindering my ability to provide the type of care I truly wanted to offer.

Over time, I became increasingly frustrated with the constraints placed on my time and how the system prioritized numbers over relationships. I knew there had to be a better way—one where I could really connect with my patients and focus on their long-term health, not just quick fixes.

The Turning Point: Realizing the Limits of the Traditional System

One of the biggest challenges I faced in the hospital-based system was the lack of time with patients. The appointments were rushed, often limited to just 10-15 minutes after the rooming process. Patients were frustrated by the short time they had to discuss their health concerns and the long waits to even get an appointment. It was not just inconvenient for them—it was also frustrating for me as their physician. I wanted to offer more than just a quick prescription or diagnosis; I wanted to work with them on a personal level to address their overall wellness.

But the pressure to see more and more patients each day meant that I had little time to build those meaningful relationships. I felt like I was just ticking boxes, moving from one patient to the next without having the opportunity to truly connect with them. This lack of time and personal connection made it harder for patients to trust me and for me to understand their unique needs and concerns.

Another major frustration was access. Many of my patients had trouble reaching me when they had questions or concerns. It felt like they were getting lost in the system, unable to easily access the physician who knew their medical history and could guide them effectively. I wanted to be a physician who was there for my patients, accessible when they needed me, not just during a brief office visit.

Discovering Direct Primary Care (DPC)

That’s when I discovered Direct Primary Care (DPC), a model that prioritizes access, quality time with patients, and building long-lasting relationships. DPC offers a solution to many of the issues I faced in the traditional system by allowing patients to pay a fixed monthly membership fee. This model eliminates the need for insurance and allows me to offer longer appointments, direct access to me as their physician, and a focus on wellness and prevention.

The DPC model felt like a perfect fit for me as a physician who wanted to offer more personalized care. It allowed me to get back to the root of why I became a physician in the first place: to help people achieve optimal health through partnership and understanding.

Challenges in Making the Transition

The transition to DPC was not without its challenges. Starting a new practice and navigating the financial and logistical hurdles has been daunting. But the more I learned about DPC, the more I knew it was the right path for me—and for the patients I will eventually serve.

Leaving behind the security of the traditional healthcare system meant stepping into the unknown, but I was ready for it. The chance to truly focus on my future patients’ health, rather than the volume of patients I saw, was an opportunity I could not pass up.

Why DPC Works for Patients (and Me)

With Everwell Health Solutions, my goal is to provide the care I have always wanted to offer—more time with patients, better access, and a focus on their overall wellness. I will work closely with each individual, building a relationship based on trust and mutual respect. This will allow us to tackle health issues proactively, focusing on prevention and long-term health goals rather than just reactive treatments.

The DPC model will allow me to give patients more time, so we can dive deep into their health concerns, discuss lifestyle changes, and develop a personalized plan for optimal wellness. And, perhaps most importantly, patients will have direct access to me whenever they have a question or need advice—whether it is by phone, text, or email. No more waiting days for a response or feeling like you are just another number in the system.

The Future of Everwell Health Solutions

As I look to the future, I am excited about building Everwell Health Solutions and helping more people experience the benefits of DPC. My vision is to create a healthcare model where patients are treated as people, not just as cases. I believe that when patients have a true partnership with their physician, they are more likely to stay healthy and engaged in their wellness journey.

If you are tired of feeling like just a number in the traditional healthcare system, I invite you to learn more about Everwell Health Solutions and how Direct Primary Care can help you achieve the personalized care you deserve. Together, we can make health a lifelong priority.

…I am now focused on providing the kind of care that truly matters—care where the physician and patient work together as a team, with access, time, and personal relationships at the forefront.

If you are looking for a healthcare experience that puts you first, I invite you to learn more about Everwell Health Solutions and how Direct Primary Care (DPC) can help you achieve your health and wellness goals. You can explore our services and how we are redefining primary care by visiting https://everwellhealthsolutions.com/primary-care-services/

To read more about DPC in general, check out DPC Nation for additional resources: https://dpcnation.org/faq/

January 13, 2025