Your Lifetime Health Partner!
Why Having a
is
F
Primary Care Physician
So Important
or many people, making sure their children and family members receive regular health checkups is near the top of their list, but many neglect their own health and well being. Having a primary care physician (PCP) can help assure that you take care of yourself as well. Making sure you obtain a PCP and scheduling regular appointments is vital to your long-term health. “Creating and building that relationship with your doctor is the key to Dr. Echols is a board-certified family medicine physician. She maintaining good health overall,” stresses Carmen Echols, M.D., received her bachelor’s degree in Biology from Xavier University a family medicine physician practicing at Flat Shoals Internal of Louisiana, her medical degree at Wayne State University in Medicine located in Decatur. Your PCP will be able to provide Detroit, Michigan, and completed her internship and preventive care that may help avoid serious illnesses down the residency in Family Medicine at Georgia road. “Without a PCP,” she explains,” some people will Health Sciences University in Augusta, either wait until they are really sick before they Georgia. She is a member of the American decide to make an appointment or they’ll make Academy of Family Physicians and the an unnecessary trip to the emergency room for Georgia Academy of Family Physicians. simple cold and flu symptoms, which usually She is also a member of Gamma will cost the patient more money out of Gamma Chi Sorority, Inc. pocket.” Either way it’s a losing scenario. Dr. Echols’ special medical With a PCP they can be seen and taken care of interests include (but are not limited right away. to) adolescent medicine, diabetes, Dr. Echols goes on to share that the hypertension, women’s health, and doctor/patient relationship should function the integrative and holistic medicine. Patients same as any good marriage or relationshipcan visit her for annual and school with open and honest communication. Yes, physicals (including pap smears); education the doctor will know your medical history, family and management of chronic illnesses such as history and even personal lifestyle habits to hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, some degree, but communicating freely etc., as well as acute illnesses such as and letting your physician get to know colds, flu and rashes. Dr. Echols is able you will provide him/her with enough to see patients ages 7 and up. All knowledge to recommend the children must have completed their best treatment and care for you. initial series of pediatric shots. Additionally, your PCP can refer you to a specialist, if necessary, and can assist with coordinating any outside care. Your PCP will also make sure to remind you of your annual screenings, which are important for early detection, as well as any needed immunizations. Whether you are physically fit or someone dealing with new or chronic health issues, having a PCP gives you the best chance of enjoying a healthy, active life. Carmen Echols, M.D.
To schedule an appointment with Carmen Echols, M.D., contact her office at 404.585.5049. Flat Shoals Internal Medicine’s office is located at 4153-B Flat Shoals Parkway, Suite 200, Decatur, GA 30034. Visit us online at www.flatshoalsinternalmedicine.com www.MDsWhoCare.com | 11