Issue link: http://www.epageflip.net/i/919124
10 | YOU AT YOUR BEST | NWADG.COM/YOUATYOURBEST JANUARY - NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS | SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2017 All of the best places for you to get out in the Ozarks are waiting for you right here! getoutintheozarks.com All of the best places for you to SPECIAL TO NWA DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE If one of your New Year's resolutions is to get healthier, just remember who is in charge. "No one has more control over your health than you do," says Laura Hardin, M.D., a primary care physician at Washington Regional's Farmington Family Clinic. "When you make your health a priority, you feel a greater sense of control and are more comfortable making healthcare decisions." Here are a few tips from Dr. Hardin on how you can take action for good health this year: Work as a team with your primary care provider "Find a primary care physician with whom you can develop an ongoing relationship," Dr. Hardin suggests. "Together, you can work to keep you healthy over your entire life." Be an educated healthcare consumer "If you've been diagnosed with a health problem, learn as much as you can about your condition and treatment options before you make any important decisions," Dr. Hardin says. "Consider participating in disease-specific support groups or online forums where you can learn from others who have similar concerns and challenges." Ask questions "Prepare a list of questions before each appointment with your doctor. There is no such thing as a stupid question. If you don't understand something, keep asking until you do understand," she says. It helps to ask open-ended questions. Instead of asking, "Do I need this treatment?" ask, "If I decide not to accept this treatment, what will happen to me?" or, "Are there other treatments, and if so, can you tell me about them?" Keep up with appropriate wellness visits and preventive measures "Schedule an annual wellness exam to keep up with recommended preventive care and to identify risk factors that can be addressed before they lead to health issues," Dr. Hardin advises. Ask your doctor which screenings and immunizations are right for you based on your age and risk factors. There are many screening tests for many diseases, but you won't know what's best for you until you see a doctor. Achieve and maintain your best health. Many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer, are largely preventable with healthy lifestyle choices. "Eat right, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and don't smoke. These are proven strategies for reducing your risk of disease," Dr. Hardin says. So, to get started on your get- healthy New Year's resolution, make an appointment with a primary care physician to discuss your wellness goals. "Don't wait until you are sick to become an advocate for yourself," Dr. Hardin says. "Your everyday decisions affect your long-term health, so start looking out for your future health now." Action items for good health in 2018