GREEN BAY — As men age, maintaining health becomes increasingly important. For older men, establishing a primary care provider (PCP) can be a game-changer in managing health effectively.
Research shows that older men (those 45 to 64 years old) with a PCP experience better health management. The National Library of Medicine reported that older men with a PCP are 35 percent more likely to manage their chronic diseases and can decrease their emergency room visits by 20 percent.
“Regular provider visits can help anyone, especially older men, identify risks more quickly,” said Dr. Matthew Andreoli, Family Medicine Physician with Emplify Health by Bellin. “This can provide peace of mind and save you time and money in the future. It could even save your life.”
Stigma and societal factors may stop men from seeking preventative care or timely care.
“We are still seeing men coming in who have experienced symptoms for weeks, if not months,” Andreoli added. “With a primary care relationship, we can help establish preventive care routines that are specific to your lifestyle and medical history.”
Common health conditions for older men can include heart disease, diabetes, depression and prostate problems — all of which can be prevented and managed through a PCP.
“We understand there is still a notion for men to have a ‘push through the pain’ mentality,” Andreoli said. “However, regularly meeting with your primary care provider can ensure you stay healthy and on top of your healthcare risks.”
As men age, their health priorities will change. Through a PCP, men can know exactly what steps to take to stay healthy throughout their life. To find a primary care provider near you, please visit bellin.org/services/primary-care.