Your primary care doctor is more than just an expert in common health problems; they oversee and treat chronic medical conditions, whether you’re an older adult managing osteoporosis or a young person recently diagnosed with diabetes. If you have a chronic health condition, then your primary care provider should be your go-to resource in managing the coinciding symptoms!
Common chronic conditions include issues like heart disease, cancer, lung disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, obesity, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma.
The prevalence of chronic health conditions is widespread – according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 6 out of 10 individuals in the United States live with chronic diseases. Chronic health conditions account for more than 80% of healthcare spending and are a huge component of the modern American healthcare system.
People living with a chronic condition are also at risk for developing multiple chronic conditions, called “comorbidity.” For example, if you have heart disease, over time you are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes or dementia.
The more risk factors a person has, the greater their chances are of having multiple chronic health conditions over time. Risk factors include tobacco use, poor diet, lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol use, obesity, high blood pressure (hypertension), and high cholesterol.
If you have a chronic health condition, your primary care provider plays an important role in helping you manage it!
Since 2013, Meridian HealthCare has offered the best in primary care services, delivering an integrated approach that provides well-rounded care for true wellness.
A variety of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, are accepted. And, our care team has the ability to diagnose and treat medical conditions while also providing supportive services and counseling, as needed.
For more information about primary care services for chronic conditions, reach out to one of our offices today!
Meridian Road Campus
527 N. Meridian Road
Youngstown,OH 44509
Phone: 330-797-0070
Fax: 330-797-1501
The Donofrio Center
550 West Chalmers Avenue
Youngstown, Ohio 44511
Phone: 330-797-0070
Communicating with your doctor is an important part of managing chronic conditions. Be sure to ask questions and share how you’re feeling so that your primary care provider can deliver the best possible care.
A primary care physician (PCP) is the first line of defense in managing chronic conditions. They work with you to create treatment plans that include lifestyle modifications, suggestions for physical activity, and medication management (among other interventions) to ensure that you’re living the best quality life.
Other services that Meridian’s primary care providers offer include the following:
Regular visits to your primary care provider are the best way to manage chronic health conditions – your doctor monitors changes and adjusts treatments over time, all while coordinating with specialists, as needed. This doesn’t just go for physical health conditions. It also pertains to mental health conditions (like anxiety and depression), as well.
Your doctor’s office understands the intricacies of the medical billing industry, whether that’s through private insurance or public health programs like Medicare. Office staff can help you understand things like copays and what services are covered under your plan.
In addition to treatment, your primary care provider is also a source for information about your chronic health condition(s). After all, the best way to keep issues under control (or prevent them all together) is through education.
Your doctor should be a resource for good health promotion, to not only to keep you well but to also keep your personal health care costs down.
Your doctor understands that your individual risk factors affect your chances of developing other chronic issues, such as cardiovascular disease or cancers like breast cancer or colorectal cancer.
If your doctor suspects something is not right, or that you may be at risk for certain chronic diseases, he or she will take the initiative and engage in chronic disease prevention measures.
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Chronic illnesses, including mental illness, are a leading cause of death and disability. Ignoring them can lead to additional health problems like heart attacks, stroke, cancer, depression or anxiety.
If you’re looking for a healthcare provider that can relieve the burden of chronic disease with proper treatment and intervention – all while working to improve your quality of life – Meridian HealthCare can help!
Your well-being is important to us! Here at Meridian HealthCare, we treat the whole person – both mind and body – for optimal health. Reach out today to get started with our primary care services!
