World Hepatitis Day in July and Other Tips for Well Being

July 28th is World Hepatitis Day

Every year, 1.3 million people lose their lives to hepatitis.  And new data from the World Health Organization shows the number of deaths is rising.

World Hepatitis Day takes places every year on the 28th of July to raise awareness of viral hepatitis, its global burden, and to influence real change. Hepatitis is now the world’s deadliest virus, after COVID-19 with over two million new cases of hepatitis every year. It’s the leading cause of liver cancer and over 300 illion people are living with hepatitis. It’s time for action.There are the tools needed to eliminate hepatitis by 2030 – but progress is slow. Resources are not being mobilized; stigma and discrimination are not being addressed; and despite commitments made by governments and institutions, millions are being left behind. For World Hepatitis Day 2024, WHA, partners, allies, and 337 members in 102 countries are calling for action to end this entirely preventable disease.

Do You Have a Primary Care Doctor?
Here’s 10 Reasons Why Having a Primary Care Doctor is Important

1. General Healthcare

Where should you go if you have a cough, if you’re feeling anxious and depressed, or if you are curious about a certain vaccine? Your primary care doctor! A primary care doctor focuses on general healthcare, meaning he or she is trained in treating a little bit of everything and coordinates patient health care in one central location. With a primary care doctor, you only need to make one appointment to discuss a variety of health issues.

2. Manage Chronic Illness

Chronic illness like diabetes and arthritis are often difficult to monitor by yourself. A primary care doctor can help you stay organized and aware of how your chronic illness is affecting your body. Scheduling regular visits and performing routine tests are two ways your doctor can` help you better maintain your chronic illness.

3. Comfort

Most people don’t love talking to strangers, especially about their healthcare needs and concerns. Choose a primary care doctor you trust and schedule regular appointments so you can discuss your concerns and overall health. Researchers at the Journal of Health Affairs found that patients with primary care doctors reported higher levels of satisfaction than patients without primary care doctors.

4. Transparency

Routine visits with your primary care provider also builds on your health history. Knowledge of your health history, as well as your family health history, is imperative for prevention of diseases and also helps your doctor catch early symptoms of serious conditions.

5. Lower Overall Health Costs

Attending regular appointments with your primary doctor might seem tedious and like a waste of money at times, but research from the Journal of Health Affairs suggests that routine appointments with a primary care doctor cut overall health costs for patients. Regular screenings, open communication between you and your doctor, and a record of your health history all contribute to an overall lower cost of health care.

6. Screenings

Regular screenings hold great importance when it comes to your health. Undergoing testing on a regular basis helps catch symptoms before they get worse or lead to debilitating health issues.

7. Catch Health Issues Early

While routine screenings may find certain symptoms of health issues before they become larger problems, your primary care doctor also knows you well enough to ask the right questions and detect other health issues in their early stages.

8. Referrals

Do you need a referral to see an ENT or a cardiologist? Start with an appointment with your primary care doctor. Your doctor should have helpful recommendations for any specialist you may need. He/she will help coordinate care with these specialists.  

9. Decrease in Hospital and ER Visits

Research shows that patients who regularly visit their primary care physicians have fewer hospitalizations and emergency visits than those who do not utilize primary care doctors. Waiting too long to see a doctor or ignoring symptoms can lead to a hospitalization or an ER visit, two of the most expensive and overwhelming outcomes for patients.

10. Better Communication

Communication is a two-way street, especially when it comes to your health. Communicating your health wants, needs and concerns are crucial for your doctor to address your health appropriately. Likewise, your primary care doctor should also feel comfortable holding up front conversations with you regarding their concerns and thoughts regarding your health.

What You Can Expect When You Visit DDC Health Care
We Care for Your Health

When You Call You’ll Speak to the Doctor
Same Day Appointments with No Waiting

Comfortable Office Conveniently Located in Bonita Springs
Plenty of Parking and Covered Drop Off
Teleheath Visits Available
Pre-Op Exams
DOT and Employee Physicals

We want to know how we can serve you better!

Are you looking for an off hours or weekend appointment?
We can make arrangements to see you.

Are you having issues getting in to see see a specialist?

We can assist you in getting the care you need.

Do you need help navigating your medical insurance?
We will help be your advocate for seeing what can be covered and what cannot.

Do you need an appointment now?
We can see you on the same day!