Preventive Care

Routine preventive health care is an easy and effective way to reduce your risk of chronic illnesses and premature death. At FirstPointMD in the Floral Park neighborhood of Long Island in New York, experienced primary care physician Ravin Patel, MD, offers preventive care to people of all ages, including physical exams, routine screenings, immunizations, and lab work. Call FirstPointMD today to schedule preventive care or book your appointment online.

Do I need preventive care if I’m healthy?

Yes. Preventive care is essential for anyone wanting to live a long and active life. Routine checkups with Dr. Patel present an opportunity to assess your health and reduce the risk of chronic conditions. 

As you age, you’re more likely to experience medical issues. Preventive care lets you stay on top of your health and alerts you to potential concerns before they become serious. It also educates you on healthy living so you can feel your best.

What are some examples of preventive care?

At FirstPointMD, Dr. Patel offers various preventive care services, including:

Physical exams

A physical exam assesses your health from head to toe. Dr. Patel checks your vital signs, examines your ears, eyes, nose, and throat, and gently presses on your abdomen to evaluate your internal organs. Dr. Patel answers your questions and makes personalized recommendations to optimize your health.

Lab work

Lab work refers to several tests that analyze your blood, urine, or saliva to learn more about your health. Many chronic conditions, like diabetes and high cholesterol, don’t cause noticeable symptoms. Lab work lets Dr. Patel catch these and other issues early on and treat them. 

Preventive screenings

Preventive screenings help identify sex-specific health problems like cervical, breast, and prostate cancer. 

At FirstPointMD, Dr. Patel offers several preventive screenings, including Pap tests, breast exams, testicular exams, and prostate exams. He also provides mammogram referrals.

Immunizations

Immunizations teach your immune system to identify and defend itself from harmful invaders, like viruses and bacteria. After reviewing your medical records, Dr. Patel develops a personalized immunization schedule to reduce your risk of preventable illnesses. 

How often should I schedule preventive health care?

Dr. Patel recommends that everyone schedule preventive health care at least once a year, regardless of age. Regular visits to FirstPointMD are one of the easiest ways to stay healthy.

If you have a chronic medical condition, like diabetes or heart disease, more frequent visits might be necessary. Routine care can prevent the condition from worsening and help you stay on top of your health goals. 

Call FirstPointMD today to schedule your next preventive care appointment or book your visit online.