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Article Category: Highlights

Make Health Your Habit

Published on December 20, 2024

Last updated 09:29 AM April 21, 2025

Patient speaking with their doctor

The start of a new year is a great time to focus on your health. For many of us, that means setting resolutions to live a healthy, full life. While many people like to reset their health goals in January, Wellstar partners with patients year-round to help them feel their best.

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 your Wellstar care team

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

“Your primary care provider will collaborate with you to create a customized care plan and recommend screenings based on factors such as your age, gender and family history,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Cristina Dasoveanu. “Regular screenings can help you stay ahead of issues and catch any health concerns early.”  

Know Your Foundational 4

To check your health status and screen for potential medical issues, your clinician will take your Foundational 4 numbers, a few screenings that identify risk factors for some health conditions such as heart disease.

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.

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 clinician 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 team will refer you for that specialized care while continuing to help you manage your overall wellness.

“Through our 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.

Accessing care online

If you’re a MyChart user, E-visits are a convenient way for you to receive care from a Wellstar clinician without needing to schedule an appointment or come to the clinic. Through MyChart, tell us about your health concern by answering a few questions about yourself and your symptoms, then a primary care expert will respond in MyChart with your care plan.

Conditions that can be treated with an E-visit include:

  • cough
  • sinus problems
  • urinary tract infection
  • conjunctivitis
  • back pain
  • diarrhea
  • vaginal discharge
  • heartburn

Log on to MyChart and click “Symptom Checker” from the menu in the top left of the screen to start an E-visit.

For more immediate healthcare needs that are not life-threatening, you can talk to a clinician with 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.

Tags

Georgia A Forrest LeThenia Joy Baker Cristina Maria Dasoveanu
Primary Care Womens Health Virtual Care
Related Articles
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Highlights

Get Convenient Care Online with Virtual Urgent Care

Through Virtual Urgent Care Wellstar clinicians are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year to help diagnose and treat many health issues. You can see the next available practitioner—no appointment needed—from your mobile device, tablet or computer.

Visit for conditions including

  • Allergies 
  • Bladder infections/UTI 
  • Coughs and colds
  • Ear and eye irritation
  • Minor burns, bites and cuts
  • Minor cases of COVID-19
  • Sinus infections
  • Skin conditions
  • Viral infections 
  • General questions and more

Starting your visit with a Wellstar MyChart account

  1. Log in to your Wellstar MyChart account.
  2. Navigate to the Menu and select Start a Virtual Urgent Care Video Visit.
  3. Following the prompts to Prepare for your Virtual Urgent Care Visit, select your location, then choose General Video Visit.
  4. Connect for your visit using the option My Computer. A Chrome or Safari web browser will provide the best care experience.
  5. Choose when you would like your Virtual Urgent Care visit by selecting Next available clinician.
  6. Fill in the reason for your visit and select Complete.
  7. You will receive a text or email when the clinician is ready to see you.
 
If you don’t have a MyChart account, you can sign up online.

Starting your visit without a Wellstar MyChart account

  1. On our Virtual Urgent Care page, select Schedule for yourself or Schedule for someone else.

  2. Select your location, then Virtual Urgent Care Video Visit.

  3. Follow the prompts to complete scheduling your visit.

Your Virtual Urgent Care clinician will provide you with the same personalized, tailored treatments you’ve come to expect from us. That may include treatment recommendations and prescriptions to manage an immediate health issue, like an antibiotic or cough medicine.

 

After your Virtual Urgent Care visit, all Wellstar clinicians, including your primary care provider or specialist, can see a record of your appointment. You will also be able to access it through MyChart. Keeping all of your trusted care team members in the know is just one way we provide you with seamless care.

 

Get started at wellstar.org/virtualcare.

 
Keep reading
Two women talking. Wellstar and Gabbi logos

Highlights

Wellstar & Gabbi Partner to Assess Women's Future Risk of Breast Cancer

We’ve partnered with Gabbi to provide breast cancer risk assessments for women ages 24 to 39. This personalized virtual service offers 24/7 expert support and navigation through breast health screenings. The pilot program has launched at select Wellstar OB/GYN locations. 

  • Talk to your Wellstar OB/GYN about your breast cancer risk factors during your annual visit. Your physician will refer you to Gabbi if you could benefit from their services.
  • An online assessment evaluates your risk of breast cancer in two minutes.
  • Book a next-day virtual appointment with a breast specialist who can design your care plan and explain your risk.Your specialist will assist with scheduling tests or imaging at Wellstar.
  • Gabbi’s care concierge is available 24/7 and can answer questions over text.

It only takes four steps to take charge of your breast health.

  1. Discuss your breast cancer risk factors with your Wellstar OB/GYN, who will help determine if you could benefit from Gabbi’s services.
  2. Take your online risk assessment.
  3. Virtually meet with a care navigator, who will order the appropriate imaging or testing at Wellstar.
  4. Your OB/GYN will continue to provide expert care and referrals if needed.

Ongoing breast health support

If your imaging is normal, you'll follow up with your OB/GYN during your next annual visit. Your care team may recommend more frequent screenings due to family history or other risk factors. If your imaging is flagged for follow-up care, you'll be connected to the Wellstar Comprehensive Breast Health Program to ensure you're surrounded in care with complimentary concierge services and a team of compassionate experts dedicated to guiding you at every step.

Get started at gabbi.com. 

Keep reading
A pregnant woman's healthcare provider checks her blood pressure.

Highlights

8 Heart Health Facts Moms-to-be Should Know

Pregnancy is a time of excitement and change. But it also puts added strain on the heart. In fact, cardiovascular conditions are one of the leading causes of maternal complications worldwide. Some women can develop heart conditions during pregnancy that can lead to serious complications if not recognized early. Knowing the risks and being proactive about your heart health can help prevent a life-threatening problem.

Here’s what every expectant mom should know about heart health during pregnancy.

1. High blood pressure can be silent—and dangerous.

Some women develop high blood pressure during pregnancy, even if they’ve never had it before. High blood pressure can lead to preeclampsia. It’s a condition that can cause organ damage and, in severe cases, seizures. When high blood pressure isn’t treated, it can increase the risk of stroke or heart failure. Checking your blood pressure regularly can help catch problems early.

What to do about high blood pressure

If you have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease or a family history of cardiovascular issues, tell your care team. Preconception counseling is essential if you have a known heart condition. Your physician may recommend that you monitor your blood pressure at home and report any sudden swelling, headaches or vision changes immediately.

2. Heart failure can happen—even in healthy moms.

A rare but serious condition called peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) weakens the heart, usually in the last month of pregnancy or the months following delivery. If you have shortness of breath, swelling or often feel extremely tired, don’t ignore those signs.

What to do if you have shortness of breath or a racing heart

Talk to your provider immediately if everyday activities leave you exhausted or struggling to breathe. Other concerning symptoms include persistent coughing, swelling in your legs or feet and dizziness. Don’t ignore symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, severe fatigue or a racing heartbeat. These could signal a serious heart problem—seek help right away.

3. Pre-existing heart conditions and hypertensive disorders require extra care.

If you’ve ever had heart disease, a heart defect or high blood pressure—including hypertension or hypertensive disorders—pregnancy can increase your risks. Even women without symptoms before pregnancy may need extra monitoring.

What to do if you have a pre-existing heart condition

Talk with your provider early about a care plan. High-risk pregnancies may require specialist support, like a maternal-fetal medicine physician or cardiologist. If you’ve been diagnosed with a heart condition before pregnancy, ask your provider how it may affect labor and delivery. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. You know your body best, and your concerns deserve attention.

4. Blood clots are more common during pregnancy.

Pregnancy increases the risk of thromboembolism, a serious condition where blood clots can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. The risk is even higher for women with a history of clotting disorders, obesity or limited mobility.

What to do to prevent blood clots

To reduce your risk of blood clots, stay active, stay hydrated and watch for warning signs like leg swelling, redness or pain. If you notice these, call your provider right away. If you’re on bed rest, ask your provider about ways to improve circulation. Learn the signs of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

5. A racing heartbeat may be abnormal.

You can expect some changes in heart rhythm during pregnancy, but arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) can be a sign of something more serious. Hormone changes, increased blood volume and underlying conditions like thyroid disorders can all contribute to an irregular heartbeat.

What to do about a racing heart

If your heart races often, feels like it’s skipping beats or you feel dizzy or faint, let your provider know immediately. Keep track of when these symptoms happen and whether they occur at specific times, such as during physical activities or when your stress levels are high.

6. Postpartum recovery still puts stress on the heart.

The risk of heart complications doesn’t end at delivery. Many serious conditions, including heart failure or high blood pressure, can develop in the weeks or months after childbirth. Postpartum heart issues can be life-threatening if you don’t address them.

What to do during the postpartum period

Keep all postpartum checkups, even if you feel fine. Watch for new symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath or extreme fatigue. If you had high blood pressure during pregnancy, continue monitoring it after delivery. Be aware that cardiovascular complications can develop up to a year postpartum, and follow-up care is so important for your long-term health.

7. Your hospital choice matters

For women at high risk, delivering in a hospital with access to specialized prenatal tests, genetic testing like amniocentesis, fetal evaluations and emergency cardiac care can make all the difference. Not all hospitals have the same level of maternal heart care, so it’s important to plan ahead. Choose a hospital that is equipped to handle pregnancy-related cardiac emergencies.

Wellstar provides specialized care for mothers and babies close to home, including:

  • Wellstar Acworth Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
  • Wellstar Avalon Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
  • Wellstar Cherokee Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
  • Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia: Level IV NICU
  • Wellstar Cobb Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, level III NICU, maternal-fetal medicine, medical genetics, perinatal cardiology
  • Wellstar Douglas Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, maternal-fetal medicine
  • Wellstar East Cobb Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
  • Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, Level III NICU, maternal-fetal medicine, medical genetics, perinatal cardiology
  • Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center: Cardio-obstetrics, emergency cardiac care, maternal-fetal medicine, medical genetics
  • Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, medical genetics
  • Wellstar Paulding Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care, medical genetics, perinatal cardiology
  • Wellstar Spalding Medical Center: Maternal-fetal medicine
  • Wellstar Vinings Health Park: Perinatal cardiology
  • Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center: Emergency cardiac care

What to do about your hospital choice

If you are high-risk, consider hospitals with advanced cardiac care and those that have expertise in pregnancy-related heart conditions. Talk to your care team well in advance about your birth plan, especially if you have a heart condition. If possible, tour the hospital beforehand and ask about its capabilities in managing pregnancy-related heart complications.

8. Mental health and stress impact heart health.

Anxiety and stress can affect your heart. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Depression, anxiety and even post-traumatic stress disorder are common in pregnancy and postpartum, and they can impact heart health.

What to do to keep your mental health in check

Access mental health resources and practice stress management techniques to help you manage your mental health. Simple practices like deep breathing, mindfulness and connecting with loved ones can help lower stress levels. Remember, you are empowered to take control of your health—talk with your provider or a support person and get the help you need.

Take Action for a Healthier Pregnancy.

Eat well, stay active and avoid smoking or alcohol. These efforts can protect your heart and your baby’s health. Small, consistent changes—like reducing salt intake or walking daily—can make a difference.

Regular prenatal visits are just as important. Remember, knowledge is power. Stay informed, speak up when something feels off and choose a hospital that meets your needs. These simple steps can help you take control of your heart health and reduce the risk for you and your baby.

Find an OB/GYN or perinatal cardiologist and learn about labor and delivery at Wellstar.

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