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Nikia Garland, DO

Specialties

Family Medicine

Education & Training

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

Book an appointment

Nikia Garland, DO

Primary Care Physician with Wellstar since 2017.

Specialties

Family Medicine

Education & Training

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

Primary Care Physician with Wellstar since 2017
  • Member of the Wellstar Medical Group A friendly image of Garland Nikia Garland, DO
  • Office Locations
  • Expertise
  • Patient Reviews
  • Publications & Articles

Office Locations


Expertise

About Nikia Garland, DO

Dr. Nikia Garland is a dedicated Primary Care Provider who offers her services at Wellstar West Cobb Medical Center. She welcomes patients and families from the greater Atlanta area.

Dr. Garland earned her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from Edward Via College Of Osteopathic Medicine and completed a residency in Family Medicine at Cleveland Clinic - South Pointe Hospital. During consultations, Dr. Garland thoroughly understands each patient's symptoms and conducts a detailed exam before recommending the appropriate treatment plan.

Specialties

  • Family Medicine

Education & Training

  • Edward Via College of Oseopathic Medicine

Degree

  • Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

Residency

  • Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital

Certifications

  • AOA Family Medicine

Languages spoken

  • English

Common Treatments, Conditions, and Procedures

  • Migraine Headache

Patient Reviews

Overall patient rating

4.7

Based on 268 patient ratings

I'd recommend this provider to family and friends
I'd recommend this practice to family and friends
Listened to me carefully
Shared the right amount of information
Earned my trust

All reviews have been submitted by patients after seeing the provider.For more information about the review system, check out this Learn more about our review system.

Patient Reviews

4

Entire staff was attentive. Professional and knowledgeable

May 15, 2025

5

My first time visiting was great. Everyone was very patient and nice.They were smiling and friendly. I just loved Dr Garland. She was awesome. She took the time to explain everything to me. I've already recommended her to my kids and friends. I felt at peace and she was very easy to talk to. A very special Thank you to Dr Garland and Staff.

May 14, 2025

5

Great experience overall from front desk to MA to the doctor, check out and lab. Dr Garland is a very good listener, very kind. She gave great recommendations taking into consideration all aspects of my care. It was a truly productive visit. I felt heard, never felt rushed, was able to voice my concerns and felt validated. Great team from start to finish!

May 11, 2025

5

DR Garland is a super family doctor !

May 9, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was simply fantastic. She has the absolute best bedside manner that I have encountered from a physician in a long time, if not overall the best. I am really glad to habe found her. Although this was my first time visiting her, I trust her implicitly. She listened attentively, asked important questions, and showed concern for my health as a whole. I recommended a friend to her as soon as my appointment was finished and my friend has an appointment in less than 1 week. Keep up the good work! All of the other team members were kind and professional also.

April 19, 2025

5

The experience was great!

April 18, 2025

5

The entire staff and health care professionals were extremely personable and helpful.

April 6, 2025

5

Service was over and behind - excellent!

April 4, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was a very nice and informative provider. She listened to my concerns and gave efficient feedback.

March 28, 2025

5

Dr Garland is an exceptional doctor and very thorough.

March 21, 2025

5

Front desk personnel were helpful and friendly.

March 12, 2025

5

I just truly enjoyed the staff and Doctor. The first time patient was highly impressed.

March 7, 2025

5

Great experience

March 5, 2025

5

Dr. Garland is excellent. This location's lab is limiting her ability to support patients care. There is no option for quick swab lab testing at this location for common respiratory illnesses during flu/RSV season. This negatively affects patients like me with asthma from getting proper care. I trust this Doctor 100% and have recommended two close friends to her. But unfortunately the lab limitations at this family practice for something so basic that I can get it at any mini clinic is not going to work for me.

March 14, 2025

5

Nothing much. But good

February 24, 2025

5

Very professional. I got in a timely manner. Very responsive. Thorough. I had no problems. Very professional.

February 24, 2025

5

This is the best health advice I've ever received in my life. I made the choice to visit the doctor and get my questions answered..

February 14, 2025

5

Doctor garland is an amazing caring person listened to me and explained everything . The staff is amazing too very caring and professional.

February 7, 2025

5

I'm very happy with my care so far.

February 4, 2025

5

It was a Good experience.

February 3, 2025

5

Excellent Dr.

January 24, 2025

5

The experience was a pleasant one

January 11, 2025

5

I'm so pleased with the overall service.

January 11, 2025

5

I liked the professional way everyone conducted themselves.

January 12, 2025

5

Dr.Garland listens and provides as much information as she can. I am very comfortable with talking to her about my health. Keep up the great work.

December 20, 2024

5

Yes, I really like Dr Garland because she was very thorough, and she took her time to answer any questions you have, and she was very patient in explaining the things that were at matter. Yeah, she seemed to be, I'm a new patient, she seems to be very caring, and I really did like that. I feel like she's a great doctor. Thanks.

December 18, 2024

5

Dr. Garland made me feel like my issue was important to her and I felt heard. She was great and attentive.

November 29, 2024

5

Dr. Garland and her staff were very, very helpful considering that I was a new patient and a little nervous. They put me at ease and I'm so grateful for them. And I do plan on coming back and this is going to be my doctor. Thank you.

December 8, 2024

5

I am an insurance agent and I recommend all my clients to this office because the providers are great

November 25, 2024

5

She was excellent. The staff was excellent.

November 20, 2024

5

My first time visiting was great. Everyone was very patient and nice.They were smiling and friendly. I just loved Dr Garland. She was awesome. She took the time to explain everything to me. I've already recommended her to my kids and friends. I felt at peace and she was very easy to talk to. A very special Thank you to Dr Garland and Staff.

May 14, 2025

5

Great experience overall from front desk to MA to the doctor, check out and lab. Dr Garland is a very good listener, very kind. She gave great recommendations taking into consideration all aspects of my care. It was a truly productive visit. I felt heard, never felt rushed, was able to voice my concerns and felt validated. Great team from start to finish!

May 11, 2025

5

DR Garland is a super family doctor !

May 9, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was simply fantastic. She has the absolute best bedside manner that I have encountered from a physician in a long time, if not overall the best. I am really glad to habe found her. Although this was my first time visiting her, I trust her implicitly. She listened attentively, asked important questions, and showed concern for my health as a whole. I recommended a friend to her as soon as my appointment was finished and my friend has an appointment in less than 1 week. Keep up the good work! All of the other team members were kind and professional also.

April 19, 2025

5

The experience was great!

April 18, 2025

5

The entire staff and health care professionals were extremely personable and helpful.

April 6, 2025

5

Service was over and behind - excellent!

April 4, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was a very nice and informative provider. She listened to my concerns and gave efficient feedback.

March 28, 2025

5

Dr Garland is an exceptional doctor and very thorough.

March 21, 2025

5

Front desk personnel were helpful and friendly.

March 12, 2025

5

I just truly enjoyed the staff and Doctor. The first time patient was highly impressed.

March 7, 2025

5

Great experience

March 5, 2025

5

Dr. Garland is excellent. This location's lab is limiting her ability to support patients care. There is no option for quick swab lab testing at this location for common respiratory illnesses during flu/RSV season. This negatively affects patients like me with asthma from getting proper care. I trust this Doctor 100% and have recommended two close friends to her. But unfortunately the lab limitations at this family practice for something so basic that I can get it at any mini clinic is not going to work for me.

March 14, 2025

5

Nothing much. But good

February 24, 2025

5

Very professional. I got in a timely manner. Very responsive. Thorough. I had no problems. Very professional.

February 24, 2025

5

This is the best health advice I've ever received in my life. I made the choice to visit the doctor and get my questions answered..

February 14, 2025

5

Doctor garland is an amazing caring person listened to me and explained everything . The staff is amazing too very caring and professional.

February 7, 2025

5

I'm very happy with my care so far.

February 4, 2025

5

It was a Good experience.

February 3, 2025

5

Excellent Dr.

January 24, 2025

5

The experience was a pleasant one

January 11, 2025

5

I'm so pleased with the overall service.

January 11, 2025

5

I liked the professional way everyone conducted themselves.

January 12, 2025

5

Dr.Garland listens and provides as much information as she can. I am very comfortable with talking to her about my health. Keep up the great work.

December 20, 2024

5

Yes, I really like Dr Garland because she was very thorough, and she took her time to answer any questions you have, and she was very patient in explaining the things that were at matter. Yeah, she seemed to be, I'm a new patient, she seems to be very caring, and I really did like that. I feel like she's a great doctor. Thanks.

December 18, 2024

5

Dr. Garland made me feel like my issue was important to her and I felt heard. She was great and attentive.

November 29, 2024

5

Dr. Garland and her staff were very, very helpful considering that I was a new patient and a little nervous. They put me at ease and I'm so grateful for them. And I do plan on coming back and this is going to be my doctor. Thank you.

December 8, 2024

5

I am an insurance agent and I recommend all my clients to this office because the providers are great

November 25, 2024

5

She was excellent. The staff was excellent.

November 20, 2024

4

Entire staff was attentive. Professional and knowledgeable

May 15, 2025

4

Entire staff was attentive. Professional and knowledgeable

May 15, 2025

5

My first time visiting was great. Everyone was very patient and nice.They were smiling and friendly. I just loved Dr Garland. She was awesome. She took the time to explain everything to me. I've already recommended her to my kids and friends. I felt at peace and she was very easy to talk to. A very special Thank you to Dr Garland and Staff.

May 14, 2025

5

Great experience overall from front desk to MA to the doctor, check out and lab. Dr Garland is a very good listener, very kind. She gave great recommendations taking into consideration all aspects of my care. It was a truly productive visit. I felt heard, never felt rushed, was able to voice my concerns and felt validated. Great team from start to finish!

May 11, 2025

5

DR Garland is a super family doctor !

May 9, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was simply fantastic. She has the absolute best bedside manner that I have encountered from a physician in a long time, if not overall the best. I am really glad to habe found her. Although this was my first time visiting her, I trust her implicitly. She listened attentively, asked important questions, and showed concern for my health as a whole. I recommended a friend to her as soon as my appointment was finished and my friend has an appointment in less than 1 week. Keep up the good work! All of the other team members were kind and professional also.

April 19, 2025

5

The experience was great!

April 18, 2025

5

The entire staff and health care professionals were extremely personable and helpful.

April 6, 2025

5

Service was over and behind - excellent!

April 4, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was a very nice and informative provider. She listened to my concerns and gave efficient feedback.

March 28, 2025

5

Dr Garland is an exceptional doctor and very thorough.

March 21, 2025

5

Front desk personnel were helpful and friendly.

March 12, 2025

5

I just truly enjoyed the staff and Doctor. The first time patient was highly impressed.

March 7, 2025

5

Great experience

March 5, 2025

5

Dr. Garland is excellent. This location's lab is limiting her ability to support patients care. There is no option for quick swab lab testing at this location for common respiratory illnesses during flu/RSV season. This negatively affects patients like me with asthma from getting proper care. I trust this Doctor 100% and have recommended two close friends to her. But unfortunately the lab limitations at this family practice for something so basic that I can get it at any mini clinic is not going to work for me.

March 14, 2025

5

Nothing much. But good

February 24, 2025

5

Very professional. I got in a timely manner. Very responsive. Thorough. I had no problems. Very professional.

February 24, 2025

5

This is the best health advice I've ever received in my life. I made the choice to visit the doctor and get my questions answered..

February 14, 2025

5

Doctor garland is an amazing caring person listened to me and explained everything . The staff is amazing too very caring and professional.

February 7, 2025

5

I'm very happy with my care so far.

February 4, 2025

5

It was a Good experience.

February 3, 2025

5

Excellent Dr.

January 24, 2025

5

The experience was a pleasant one

January 11, 2025

5

I'm so pleased with the overall service.

January 11, 2025

5

I liked the professional way everyone conducted themselves.

January 12, 2025

5

Dr.Garland listens and provides as much information as she can. I am very comfortable with talking to her about my health. Keep up the great work.

December 20, 2024

5

Yes, I really like Dr Garland because she was very thorough, and she took her time to answer any questions you have, and she was very patient in explaining the things that were at matter. Yeah, she seemed to be, I'm a new patient, she seems to be very caring, and I really did like that. I feel like she's a great doctor. Thanks.

December 18, 2024

5

Dr. Garland made me feel like my issue was important to her and I felt heard. She was great and attentive.

November 29, 2024

5

Dr. Garland and her staff were very, very helpful considering that I was a new patient and a little nervous. They put me at ease and I'm so grateful for them. And I do plan on coming back and this is going to be my doctor. Thank you.

December 8, 2024

5

I am an insurance agent and I recommend all my clients to this office because the providers are great

November 25, 2024

5

She was excellent. The staff was excellent.

November 20, 2024

4

Entire staff was attentive. Professional and knowledgeable

May 15, 2025

5

My first time visiting was great. Everyone was very patient and nice.They were smiling and friendly. I just loved Dr Garland. She was awesome. She took the time to explain everything to me. I've already recommended her to my kids and friends. I felt at peace and she was very easy to talk to. A very special Thank you to Dr Garland and Staff.

May 14, 2025

5

Great experience overall from front desk to MA to the doctor, check out and lab. Dr Garland is a very good listener, very kind. She gave great recommendations taking into consideration all aspects of my care. It was a truly productive visit. I felt heard, never felt rushed, was able to voice my concerns and felt validated. Great team from start to finish!

May 11, 2025

5

DR Garland is a super family doctor !

May 9, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was simply fantastic. She has the absolute best bedside manner that I have encountered from a physician in a long time, if not overall the best. I am really glad to habe found her. Although this was my first time visiting her, I trust her implicitly. She listened attentively, asked important questions, and showed concern for my health as a whole. I recommended a friend to her as soon as my appointment was finished and my friend has an appointment in less than 1 week. Keep up the good work! All of the other team members were kind and professional also.

April 19, 2025

5

The experience was great!

April 18, 2025

5

The entire staff and health care professionals were extremely personable and helpful.

April 6, 2025

5

Service was over and behind - excellent!

April 4, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was a very nice and informative provider. She listened to my concerns and gave efficient feedback.

March 28, 2025

5

Dr Garland is an exceptional doctor and very thorough.

March 21, 2025

5

Dr. Garland is excellent. This location's lab is limiting her ability to support patients care. There is no option for quick swab lab testing at this location for common respiratory illnesses during flu/RSV season. This negatively affects patients like me with asthma from getting proper care. I trust this Doctor 100% and have recommended two close friends to her. But unfortunately the lab limitations at this family practice for something so basic that I can get it at any mini clinic is not going to work for me.

March 14, 2025

5

Front desk personnel were helpful and friendly.

March 12, 2025

5

I just truly enjoyed the staff and Doctor. The first time patient was highly impressed.

March 7, 2025

5

Great experience

March 5, 2025

5

Nothing much. But good

February 24, 2025

5

Very professional. I got in a timely manner. Very responsive. Thorough. I had no problems. Very professional.

February 24, 2025

5

This is the best health advice I've ever received in my life. I made the choice to visit the doctor and get my questions answered..

February 14, 2025

5

Doctor garland is an amazing caring person listened to me and explained everything . The staff is amazing too very caring and professional.

February 7, 2025

5

I'm very happy with my care so far.

February 4, 2025

5

It was a Good experience.

February 3, 2025

5

Excellent Dr.

January 24, 2025

5

I liked the professional way everyone conducted themselves.

January 12, 2025

5

The experience was a pleasant one

January 11, 2025

5

I'm so pleased with the overall service.

January 11, 2025

5

Dr.Garland listens and provides as much information as she can. I am very comfortable with talking to her about my health. Keep up the great work.

December 20, 2024

5

Yes, I really like Dr Garland because she was very thorough, and she took her time to answer any questions you have, and she was very patient in explaining the things that were at matter. Yeah, she seemed to be, I'm a new patient, she seems to be very caring, and I really did like that. I feel like she's a great doctor. Thanks.

December 18, 2024

5

Dr. Garland and her staff were very, very helpful considering that I was a new patient and a little nervous. They put me at ease and I'm so grateful for them. And I do plan on coming back and this is going to be my doctor. Thank you.

December 8, 2024

5

Dr. Garland made me feel like my issue was important to her and I felt heard. She was great and attentive.

November 29, 2024

5

I am an insurance agent and I recommend all my clients to this office because the providers are great

November 25, 2024

5

She was excellent. The staff was excellent.

November 20, 2024

5

She was excellent. The staff was excellent.

November 20, 2024

5

I am an insurance agent and I recommend all my clients to this office because the providers are great

November 25, 2024

5

Dr. Garland made me feel like my issue was important to her and I felt heard. She was great and attentive.

November 29, 2024

5

Dr. Garland and her staff were very, very helpful considering that I was a new patient and a little nervous. They put me at ease and I'm so grateful for them. And I do plan on coming back and this is going to be my doctor. Thank you.

December 8, 2024

5

Yes, I really like Dr Garland because she was very thorough, and she took her time to answer any questions you have, and she was very patient in explaining the things that were at matter. Yeah, she seemed to be, I'm a new patient, she seems to be very caring, and I really did like that. I feel like she's a great doctor. Thanks.

December 18, 2024

5

Dr.Garland listens and provides as much information as she can. I am very comfortable with talking to her about my health. Keep up the great work.

December 20, 2024

5

I'm so pleased with the overall service.

January 11, 2025

5

The experience was a pleasant one

January 11, 2025

5

I liked the professional way everyone conducted themselves.

January 12, 2025

5

Excellent Dr.

January 24, 2025

5

It was a Good experience.

February 3, 2025

5

I'm very happy with my care so far.

February 4, 2025

5

Doctor garland is an amazing caring person listened to me and explained everything . The staff is amazing too very caring and professional.

February 7, 2025

5

This is the best health advice I've ever received in my life. I made the choice to visit the doctor and get my questions answered..

February 14, 2025

5

Very professional. I got in a timely manner. Very responsive. Thorough. I had no problems. Very professional.

February 24, 2025

5

Nothing much. But good

February 24, 2025

5

Great experience

March 5, 2025

5

I just truly enjoyed the staff and Doctor. The first time patient was highly impressed.

March 7, 2025

5

Front desk personnel were helpful and friendly.

March 12, 2025

5

Dr. Garland is excellent. This location's lab is limiting her ability to support patients care. There is no option for quick swab lab testing at this location for common respiratory illnesses during flu/RSV season. This negatively affects patients like me with asthma from getting proper care. I trust this Doctor 100% and have recommended two close friends to her. But unfortunately the lab limitations at this family practice for something so basic that I can get it at any mini clinic is not going to work for me.

March 14, 2025

5

Dr Garland is an exceptional doctor and very thorough.

March 21, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was a very nice and informative provider. She listened to my concerns and gave efficient feedback.

March 28, 2025

5

Service was over and behind - excellent!

April 4, 2025

5

The entire staff and health care professionals were extremely personable and helpful.

April 6, 2025

5

The experience was great!

April 18, 2025

5

Dr. Garland was simply fantastic. She has the absolute best bedside manner that I have encountered from a physician in a long time, if not overall the best. I am really glad to habe found her. Although this was my first time visiting her, I trust her implicitly. She listened attentively, asked important questions, and showed concern for my health as a whole. I recommended a friend to her as soon as my appointment was finished and my friend has an appointment in less than 1 week. Keep up the good work! All of the other team members were kind and professional also.

April 19, 2025

5

DR Garland is a super family doctor !

May 9, 2025

5

Great experience overall from front desk to MA to the doctor, check out and lab. Dr Garland is a very good listener, very kind. She gave great recommendations taking into consideration all aspects of my care. It was a truly productive visit. I felt heard, never felt rushed, was able to voice my concerns and felt validated. Great team from start to finish!

May 11, 2025

5

My first time visiting was great. Everyone was very patient and nice.They were smiling and friendly. I just loved Dr Garland. She was awesome. She took the time to explain everything to me. I've already recommended her to my kids and friends. I felt at peace and she was very easy to talk to. A very special Thank you to Dr Garland and Staff.

May 14, 2025

4

Entire staff was attentive. Professional and knowledgeable

May 15, 2025

Publications and Articles

Family members embrace and smile

Make Health Your Habit as a Family

At Wellstar, we understand how important your family’s health is to you. That’s why we partner with people and families across all ages to provide the continuing care each person needs to live their healthiest, fullest life.

By following tips from Wellstar pediatric and primary care experts to prioritize healthy habits at every stage, families can work together to take charge of their health and foster a lifetime of well-being.

Toddlerhood & early childhood

Building a strong foundation

Early childhood is a prime time to establish healthy behaviors as children’s brains are rapidly developing, making them highly receptive to learning.

“Nurturing healthy habits in childhood provides a strong foundation for long-term physical, emotional and social success,” said Dr. Joanna Dolgoff, a pediatrician at Wellstar East Paulding Pediatric Center and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics.

By incorporating several key habits into their children’s daily routines, parents can set the tone for a healthy, thriving life.

Prioritize a balanced diet: Preparing meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and dairy not only supports children’s growth and development, but also introduces positive eating habits that can last a lifetime.

Additionally, “Let kids decide when they are full,” Dr. Dolgoff said. “Avoid using food as a reward or punishment.”

Establish routines: This includes fostering healthy sleep habits by creating a consistent bedtime routine, instituting regular meal and snack times, keeping kids active and limiting screen time.

“For children under 2, avoid screens,” Dr. Dolgoff advised. “For ages 2 to 5, limit to one hour of high-quality programming a day.”

Model healthy habits: “Children naturally observe and mimic their parents’ actions,” Dr. Dolgoff shared. “Be a role model by making healthy choices yourself, like exercising regularly, eating well and managing stress effectively. Kids are more likely to adopt positive habits when they see their parents practicing them.”

Middle childhood & adolescence

Encouraging healthy choices

As children grow and desire more of a say in the decision-making that affects them, parents should actively encourage their involvement while still ensuring their choices align with healthy behaviors.

Cook and eat meals together: Healthy foods fuel children’s physical growth and brain development. Involving kids in meal planning and cooking not only teaches them about the importance of healthy eating, but also fosters connection and quality time.

“Create the weekly grocery list together, cook and eat together,” said Dr. Neety Patel, a primary care physician (PCP) with Wellstar in West Cobb. “Eating together is a great way to set aside 30 minutes (or more) to enjoy your food, talk about your day and bond.”

Swap screen time for movement and creativity: Set boundaries around recreational screen time and encourage activities like reading, drawing, storytelling or outdoor play, Dr. Dolgoff suggested. Limiting screen time an hour before bed can help ensure kids get the recommended amount of sleep (9 to 12 hours for ages 6 to 12; 8 to 10 hours for teens).

“Too much screen time can negatively impact mental health,” said Dr. Dolgoff, “while creative activities boost cognitive development and emotional expression.”

According to Dr. Dolgoff, parents should also schedule time for at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. “This can include walks, sports, dancing or family games. Movement promotes physical health, reduces stress and helps kids focus better in school."

Make it a team effort: Instilling healthy values takes a village, so remember to involve the whole family in decision-making. “Kids feel more motivated and empowered when they are part of the process,” explained Dr. Dolgoff.

Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Nikia Garland, who practices family medicine in West Cobb, added that setting realistic goals together promotes a sense of shared responsibility. “Use each other as an accountability partner,” she said.

And when children show progress or achieve success, don’t forget to celebrate. “Celebrations reinforce the idea that healthy habits are rewarding,” Dr. Dolgoff said.

Young adulthood

Taking charge of health management

Young adulthood is a period marked by significant life changes and evolving responsibilities. By teaching young adults to make healthcare a priority—even though they may feel invincible—parents can help set them up for future success.

Coordinate the transfer to adult-oriented care: Between ages 18 to 21, as students graduate or transition to life beyond high school, parents should coordinate the “handoff" from their pediatrician to an adult PCP.

“The transition from a pediatrician to an adult PCP is a critical step in helping teens take charge of their healthcare,” said Dr. Patel. “Transitioning ensures no gap in care.”

Making this switch empowers young adults to proactively take charge of their health management by establishing a plan to continue with annual physicals and age-appropriate health screenings.

Encourage discussion: Parents can further support their children during this transitional stage by maintaining open and honest communication about health topics.

“Parents can help by starting the conversation early, discussing the upcoming transition and why it’s important,” said Dr. Dolgoff. “Involve the teen in the process. Let them participate in selecting an adult PCP. Show them how to schedule appointments, refill prescriptions and understand health insurance. Teach them about their medical histories, including allergies, medications and any chronic conditions. Emphasize the importance of annual physicals and the benefits of preventive care.”

Adulthood

Maintaining long-term wellness

By the time young adults reach their mid- to late-20s, they should strive to have an established relationship with their primary care team, helping them stay ahead of injury and disease with regular screenings and preventative care.

Schedule annual physicals: Annual checkups create a baseline that can be used to track a person’s health over time. These exams are one of the best ways to catch and treat early signs of illness before they turn into serious health problems.

“During patient’s physicals, I review my wellness tips with them,” Dr. Garland shared. "It includes how to eat healthy (and what to do if you don’t), how to get restful sleep, getting physical activity, adequate water intake and daily stress relief.”

Limit processed foods and sugar: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods can make a huge difference when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight, lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, and improving energy levels.

“It seems simple and obvious to preach, but in our busy lives, we often tend to eat on the go,” said Dr. Patel. “A freshly cooked meal can do wonders for your day.”

Stay active to age well: Exercise has many benefits for adults as they age, from staving off chronic disease to enhancing strength and balance to boosting mental health.

“Regular movement can maintain your muscle and bone strength and improve most musculoskeletal pains,” said Dr. Patel. For adults, Dr. Garland noted that she typically recommends getting 30 minutes of daily continuous physical activity or 10,000 steps a day.

“If you enjoy the gym, go for it,” said Dr. Patel. “If not, get active any way you are able—go for a walk, a hike, a bike ride, take a dance lesson with your loved one, do a Zumba class on YouTube (it's free!) or some chair yoga.”

However, it’s important to know your limits, added the physician. “If something starts to hurt excessively, scale back and talk to your provider if you're not sure,” she said. “Some movement is better than no movement!”

Take control of your family’s health by finding a Wellstar pediatrician or a Wellstar primary care provider near you.

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Nikia Garland, DO
Primary Care Physician with Wellstar since 2017
Rating
4.7
Specialties
Family Medicine
Education
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Medical School
Edward Via College of Oseopathic Medicine
Residency
Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital
Certifications
AOA Family Medicine
Spoken Languages
English
Office Locations
www.wellstar.org/physicians/nikia-garland-do
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