7. Vaccinations –
Are you up to date on your immunizations? Your primary care or family medicine physician keeps a record of all your vaccinations and will let you know when it is time for a booster. Dr. Wang recommends that everyone who is eligible receive an annual flu vaccine, as well as staying up to date with the COVID-19 vaccine. Tdap boosters are generally given every ten years. A zoster vaccine at age 50 can help prevent a painful outbreak of shingles. Adults 65 and older should get a pneumococcal vaccination. If you have chronic medical conditions, other vaccines may also be needed.
8. Progression of Chronic Conditions –
Do you have a disease that needs to be managed regularly? Some individuals with conditions like diabetes are managed by their primary care physician, while others see a specialist like an endocrinologist. Even if you are under the care of another doctor, your PCP is an important member of the team. They focus on the health of the entire body.