Taking the First Step: Preventive Healthcare with Andrew McNeely, PA

Preventive health is often the first step in building a healthy home. A simple visit for routine care can save us time, money, and peace of mind. Andrew McNeely, PA-C, shared more insight on the hows and whys of preventive care.

“Preventive health really starts at home, but it continues with family,” McNeely says. “It goes out into the street where you’re enjoying a healthy lifestyle. Everything helps: it can reduce obesity, blood sugar levels, and more. Encouraging others—and ourselves—to make healthier choices impacts the very conditions we watch for in the clinic.”

Getting your yearly checkup—your labs, vaccines, and a consultation with your provider—can make a significant difference not just in your health, but also your finances. “Treating chronic conditions can be extremely expensive for the patient, their family, and the healthcare system,” McNeely says. “Getting ahead of it before conditions become severe is so important.”

At yearly checkups, providers are often working to prevent conditions from developing or worsening over time. An annual visit can help set the foundation for long-term health. “We want to control the issues before they control you.” McNeely explains that routine labs are especially important, helping identify early signs of chronic disease throughout the body.

So, when is the best time to schedule your annual checkup and take charge of preventive health?

McNeely laughs, “If you’re thinking about it, now is the right time!”

Did You know?

Up to 80% of chronic health conditions can be improved or prevented with early care and healthy habits.