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Article Category: Highlights

HometownCare

Published on October 14, 2022

Last updated 12:33 PM October 14, 2022

Photo of Dansby Swanson holding baseball bat.

Before Atlanta Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson was a world champ, he was a little league player at Adams Park in Kennesaw. He honed his skills on the field at Marietta High School. And while you can now see him playing in front of 40,000 fans at Truist Park, he hasn’t forgotten his metro Atlanta roots. 

Now he’s teamed up with Wellstar, another hometown institution, to stay at the top of his game — continuing a tradition that started the day he was born at Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center.

“For my family, sports are a tradition,” Dansby said. “We have another family tradition too — looking to Wellstar for high-quality healthcare. Generations of our family came into this world at Wellstar Kennestone, including me and my siblings and my sister’s kids too.”

With convenient access to comprehensive care, Wellstar is there to cheer on Georgians like Dansby and help our communities thrive. Whether you’re running the bases or running your weekly errands, we all want to feel our best and stay ahead of health issues — and that starts with being proactive about our health.

“To live like an all-star, you’ve got to touch base with your primary care team regularly, at least once a year,” Dansby said. “Staying on top of our health means fewer surprises from left field.”

Your primary care provider will partner with you to create a personalized game plan to help you reach your health goals. Just like you may track Dansby’s home runs and batting average if you’re a Braves fan, you should keep up with your own health stats by staying up-to-date on screenings.

A few of your own stats you should know include:

  • Body mass index. This can determine if you have a healthy body weight.
  • LDL and HDL (low-density and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). This blood test measures cholesterol levels.
  • Blood pressure. This is measured using an arm cuff and only takes a minute.
  • HbA1c (hemoglobin A1C). This metric measures whether you have healthy blood sugar. If you are diabetic, you should check your A1C every three months.

Men are less likely than women to see their primary care provider regularly, but it’s still crucial they get regular screenings to stay healthy for themselves and the people they love.

“Men aren't always the best at making health a priority, but you need to know your numbers to keep you in the game and out of a slump,” Dansby said.

Men who are 50 or older should get checked for prostate cancer by their primary care provider. You may need to start screening even sooner, depending on your risk factors and family history. Ask your provider about setting up a screenings plan, so you can be proactive against prostate cancer.

With locations around metro Atlanta and West Georgia — and virtual care options available — Wellstar supports Braves fans all over Georgia. Find a location near you.

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Related Articles
If you can’t stop gaining weight or simply aren’t seeing the pounds come off no matter what you do, it’s time to consult a primary care doctor or advanced practice professional (APP).

Highlights

Overcome Obesity with the Help of a Primary Care Provider

You’re considered obese when your body mass index (BMI) reaches 30.0 or higher. Sometimes that means you gain 15 pounds, and nobody notices you’ve gotten much bigger. Sometimes it means you have a visible weight problem.

For U.S. adults aged 20 and over, there’s a 41.9% prevalence of obesity according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That most likely makes it more common than you suspected. And, even if you don’t feel like you’re severely overweight, being obese — according to the numbers — means opening the door to a long list of potential health risks.

So, if you can’t stop gaining weight or simply aren’t seeing the pounds come off no matter what you do, it’s time to consult a primary care doctor or advanced practice professional (APP).


Understanding what causes chronic weight gain


“Physicians previously thought obesity was only due to overeating and less exercise,” said Dr. Alicia Shelly, a Wellstar primary care provider. “The advice was always to move more and eat less, but it never guaranteed they would lose significant weight.”

In recent years, there’s been a shift in understanding weight gain, where it can stem from and how broad the range of categories really is. You can be obese because of:

  • Medical conditions
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Thyroid issues
  • Genetics
  • Immune conditions
  • Environmental issues


The factors that impact your weight gain drastically affect your options for treatment and what lifestyle changes you need to make to see a difference.


The one constant of obesity

Even with so many factors potentially causing obesity, the one constant is its negative impact on your health.

“There are more than 200 complications that accompany obesity,” Dr. Shelly said. 

These include more serious issues like heart disease, liver disease, hypertension and diabetes, but also other risks like reproductive disorders, sleep apnea, joint pain and mood disorders.

“Losing only 5-10% of your current weight can prove beneficial at reducing the risk of many of these obesity-related complications,” Dr. Shelly shared.

Reducing your weight by just 2.5% percent can help lower your risk of diabetes, and losing just 5% percent of your weight can improve your overall quality of life.


Having the weight conversation with your provider

Being overweight — and talking about it — can sometimes be difficult. You may feel embarrassed or that your weight gain reflects poorly on you. However, seeing that so many factors can cause weight gain that may be out of your control, there’s no reason to fear this type of conversation. What’s important though, is having a doctor or APP you trust and who supports you.

Tips for discussing weight with your doctor

  1. Be ready to talk about your weight. This conversation may include answering questions that feel uncomfortable to you but will help your doctor provide the right level of care.
  2. Listen carefully to the health risks associated with your weight and be open to creating a strategy for even a modest weight loss, like 5-10 pounds.
  3. Participate in the creation of your treatment plan. Consider your doctor's recommendations, and speak up about what will or won’t work for you.
  4. Be open to losing weight at a realistic rate.


Your expectations for what weight loss should look like may be different than your health provider. However, it’s sometimes necessary to put your assumptions about weight loss aside. Use the information your doctor gives you to make an educated choice as to what’s best for your overall health.

There’s no rush to lose weight. What’s important is making positive changes that you can commit to indefinitely that will take weight off and allow you to keep it off.


What a weight loss plan may look like

Many weight loss plans begin with lifestyle changes. These can include changing how you handle stress, keeping a food journal or focusing on portion control. You may even have to add or remove certain foods or beverages from your diet.

With these changes should also come a plan for staying vigilant even when life throws a curveball to your routine.

“It is common for people to get overwhelmed with the challenges during their weight loss journey and quit,” Dr. Shelly said. “This is why a piece of your weight loss plan will include addressing potential challenges and mapping out ways to overcome them.”

Appetite suppressants may also assist with an effective weight loss plan. New weight management options have come on the market in recent years. Your doctor may prescribe an FDA-approved medication, but it’s good to know that most offer an average weight loss of anywhere between 6-15%, and all carry the possibility of side effects that range from insomnia to nausea to constipation.

Work closely with your doctor before taking any medication, and only use what they prescribe.


Beginning your weight loss journey

Once you’re motivated to start losing weight, the first step on your journey is to create a road map with a qualified medical professional as your guide. Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or search for a primary care provider near you.

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Provider speaking with patient. Text reads "make health your habit"

Highlights

Make Health Your Habit

With the holiday season now behind us, people look forward to the fresh start of the New Year and all the possibilities it brings. For many of us, that means setting resolutions to live a healthy, full life.

Without the proper planning and support, however, these ambitions can quickly be put off or even forgotten. This year, it’s time to break the cycle and make progress toward your goals.

By following tips from Wellstar health experts, you can create realistic resolutions and better your health — making healthy choices a lifelong habit rather than a short-term goal.

Partner with a Wellstar provider

When it comes to your wellness goals, staying healthy starts with a visit to your Wellstar primary care provider.

Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Nitasha Burney-Fleming shared why regular appointments are vital for your well-being.

“Primary care providers partner with patients to help them meet their wellness goals — in a realistic, healthy way that is tailored to their individual needs and lifestyles,” Dr. Burney-Fleming said. “Your provider can help you keep up-to-date on screenings and vaccines so you can stay ahead of health issues and illnesses.”

To check your health status and screen for potential medical issues, your provider will take your Foundational 4 numbers for:

  • Blood pressure. A blood pressure test helps diagnose hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure), heart disease and other conditions.
  • Blood glucose level. The amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood can indicate the onset of diabetes or risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
  • Blood cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called “bad” cholesterol, can indicate clogged arteries, which may lead to heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
  • Body mass index (BMI). A higher level of body fat may indicate an increased risk for heart disease, hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes.

The screenings your provider recommends will vary based on your gender, age and other factors such as family history. 

Personalized OB/GYN care for women

“Gynecologists partner with women in their healthcare across the lifespan,” said Dr. LeThenia “Joy” Baker, a Wellstar obstetrician and gynecologist. “The first gynecologic visit is recommended between 13 and 15, and the first exam between 18 and 21.”

Gynecologists are uniquely positioned to care for women from adolescence through menopause and beyond. “We’ll make sure you are up-to-date on screenings like mammograms and Pap smears, help you make informed decisions about family planning and fertility, and provide medical and surgical treatment for a variety of conditions affecting the female reproductive system,” Dr. Baker said.

Primary care, anywhere

In addition to in-person primary care visits, Wellstar also offers virtual care options. Connect with your Wellstar provider over the phone or with video on a computer, smartphone or tablet. 

“While primary care physicians help patients meet long-term wellness goals, we’re also here for you when you’re sick,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Georgia Forrest. “Your primary care provider is already familiar with your background and health needs, so we can seamlessly continue that care and help you get back on track when you’re ill.”

If you need to see a specialist such as a cardiologist, pulmonologist or neurologist, your primary care provider will refer you for that specialized care while continuing to help you manage your overall wellness.

“Through Wellstar’s patient portal MyChart, specialists and primary care physicians can see test results and visit summaries and stay updated on how each of us is working with the patient,” Dr. Forrest said.

For more immediate healthcare needs that are not life-threatening, you can talk to a provider with WellstarON, our virtual urgent care. 

In an emergency, such as if you are having trouble breathing or experiencing chest pain, call 911.

Learn more about the different types of care Wellstar offers and where to go if you’re not feeling well.

Become your healthiest you in the New Year

Whether your resolution is to lose weight, better manage a chronic condition or be more active, your healthcare provider is a great source of support. They will work with you to create a personalized plan to help you succeed

Ready to tackle your wellness goals this year? Book an appointment with a Wellstar primary care provider today.

Get moving to stay well

If you’re focused on improving your fitness routine, put a plan in place to be more active. According to Dr. Burney-Fleming, consistency is key to success.

“Do something that raises your heart rate 45 minutes a day, at least five to six days a week,” Dr. Burney-Fleming said. “Find an activity you enjoy, like dancing, biking or swimming, and gradually work it into your routine so it becomes a regular habit.”

For those looking to slim down, your healthcare provider can help jumpstart your health journey with a tailored diet and exercise plan. That way, healthy habits become second nature.

Set a sleep routine

Having a bedtime routine is essential to catch more Zzzs over the year. When you wake up feeling rested, you often feel more productive and energized throughout the day.

Get started by setting a specific time to go to sleep — and sticking to it. Make sure you reserve at least seven to nine hours per night for sleep.

Limit your screen time before getting in bed. Bright screens from a phone, computer or TV can keep your brain awake and make it harder to fall asleep.

If you’re having trouble getting to sleep, have a decaffeinated cup of tea or take a warm bath to help you relax.

Eat a balanced diet

When it comes to losing weight, many people look for a “quick fix,” which can often create unhealthy ways of eating. Creating a healthy eating plan from the start can help avoid any fad diet pitfalls.

Nutrition plans that restrict or eliminate food groups and those with extreme calorie deficits are difficult to maintain and can often produce more weight gain or undesired results. Diet trends can also create a negative relationship with food, which can make it harder to achieve your goals. 

A healthy nutrition plan is balanced and emphasizes whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, nuts and seeds, and whole grains.

Try not to overcomplicate healthy eating. Focus on starting with small changes like filling half your plate with vegetables or having fun trying new recipes.

Take care of your mental health

Self-care is an important aspect of your mental well-being and should be made a consistent part of each day.

“Just like exercising and a healthy diet strengthen your physical health, self-care enhances your mental well-being,” said Dr. Pooja Dave, a Wellstar psychologist. 

Take time for activities you enjoy, whether that means visiting with friends or family or a hobby like reading or cooking.

If you feel overwhelmed by stress or anxiety, Wellstar’s behavioral health specialists are here for you.

“Mental health professionals are trained to provide compassionate, expert care. We’ll take the time to get to know you and will work with you to identify some tools to help you feel your best,” Dr. Dave said. “Our psychologists can also help you manage more complex conditions with evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy. We can also get you connected with a provider who can help you with medications, if necessary.”

Need support? Connect with a Wellstar behavioral health specialist.

Keep reading
Illustration of person with thought bubbles representing staying home, pharmacies, virtual care, primary care and emergency care

Highlights

Feeling Sick? Know Where to Go to Get Care

Whether you experience an injury, minor illness or simply need a wellness exam, the most important step you can take is getting the care you need. That way, you can find trained experts for your specific medical needs, stay ahead of potential health issues or even help prevent your condition from worsening. 

With primary, virtual, urgent and emergency care services available, as well as retail pharmacies, how do you decide which type of care is best for your medical situation? Learn the differences between each type of medical service so you don’t delay and get care right away. 

I have been exposed to COVID-19 and I want a test: local pharmacy, stay home. I have a runny nose and fatigue: WellstarON virtual care, Wellstar primary care/pediatrician, Wellstar Urgent Care, local pharmacy, stay home. My child has a fever, decreased appetite and/or is wheezing: Wellstar primary care/pediatrician, Wellstar Urgent Care, Wellstar emergency room. I’m COVID-19 positive and have mild symptoms: WellstarON virtual care, Wellstar primary care/pediatrician, Wellstar Urgent Care, local pharmacy, stay home. I’m COVID-19 positive and have severe symptoms: Wellstar emergency room. I’m having trouble breathing: Wellstar emergency room. My child is having trouble breathing: Wellstar emergency room.   

Local Pharmacies 

If you are ill and have minor symptoms, over-the-counter medications can help you feel better. At your local retail pharmacy, you can find over-the-counter treatments for minor conditions like colds. If your symptoms worsen or do not go away with over-the-counter treatments, contact your primary care provider or visit an urgent care location. 

Local pharmacies also carry at-home COVID-19 tests, offering a convenient testing option for people who have been exposed or are experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19. 

Virtual Care 

Whether you have a busy schedule or are just looking for a more convenient option, virtual appointments are an easy way to keep up with your health from anywhere. 

At Wellstar, we offer virtual visits with both primary care providers and specialists — no matter if you are an established patient or not. Connect with your Wellstar provider over the phone or with video on a computer, smartphone or tablet. 

If you’re an established patient, simply request a virtual visit through MyChart. If you don’t have an account, it’s easy to sign up for MyChart and keep all of your important health information in one secure space. You can also call your physician’s office directly and request a virtual appointment over the phone. 

These days, many types of appointments can be done virtually, including consultations, care for chronic conditions and prescription management. In addition to virtual primary and specialty care appointments, we also provide virtual urgent care through WellstarON for minor medical concerns. 

While virtual care is a convenient way to stay well, it should never be used in place of emergency care. If you are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, call 911 right away. 

Primary Care 

Primary care is ongoing, comprehensive care and preventative medicine that helps you live a full, healthy life. 

Your primary care provider — either an internal or family medicine physician, pediatrician or OB/GYN, depending on your age and medical needs — gets to know you and your health history on a deeper level. That means they have a more accurate view of your overall wellness. 

Services include: 

  • Annual wellness exams 
  • Health screenings, labs and imaging 
  • Care for chronic conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure 
  • Immunizations for children and adults 
  • Treatment for acute illness, such as the flu or colds 
  • Coordinating care with other specialists 
  • Physical and mental health concerns, such as weight loss or anxiety 

Find a Wellstar primary care provider in your neighborhood. 

Urgent Care 

If you’re dealing with a minor injury or illness or need care after your physician’s regular office hours, going to urgent care is often the right choice. Wellstar Urgent Care Centers provide quick, convenient care for non-emergency medical conditions. 

We also offer urgent care through WellstarON, which provides virtual health visits for minor medical concerns from the comfort and convenience of home. 

Wellstar Urgent Care provides: 

  • Care for minor illnesses and injuries, such as coughs, colds, sprains and broken bones 
  • Treatment for medical issues like bites, burns and cuts 
  • COVID-19 testing and evaluation for patients 12 and older 
  • Lab and X-rays 
  • Sports physicals 
  • Occupational health services 
  • Worker’s compensation services 

Find a Wellstar urgent care location near you or make a virtual urgent care appointment. 

Emergency Care 

In a life-threatening medical emergency, every second counts. Never put off getting the proper care when lives are on the line. Remember, driving yourself to the emergency department (ED) may delay care, so call 911 for the fastest access to emergency care. 

When the unexpected happens, Wellstar is always ready in a medical emergency. Our trained team provides expert emergency care 24 hours a day for people of all ages. We even have several pediatric emergency room locations, specifically designed to treat children. 

Recognize the signs of a medical emergency: 

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath 
  • Chest discomfort or pain 
  • Severe abdominal pain 
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness 
  • Sudden dizziness, weakness or vision changes 
  • Sudden, severe pain 
  • Uncontrolled or severe bleeding 
  • Choking, coughing up blood or severe vomiting 
  • Suicidal or homicidal thoughts 
  • Changes in mental status, such as confusion or unusual behavior 
  • Traumatic injury due to a motor vehicle or other accidents 

Find a Wellstar emergency department close to you. Remember, call 911 right away in a medical emergency. That way, care can begin sooner during the crucial time it takes to be transported to the hospital. 

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