Faith Regional Health Services | living WELL | Spring 2019

FRHS.ORG 3 Kelly Driscoll, RN, MHA, FACHE President and CEO WHEN SHOULD I get my first mammogram? Do I really need a colonoscopy? While many of us may find our- selves asking Dr. Google these ques- tions, the best place to have these conversations is at annual wellness visits with our primary care providers. Today, chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes, are responsible for 7 out of every 10 deaths among Americans and account for more than 75% of the nation’s health care spending. However, these chronic diseases can largely be pre- vented or can be detected early when treatment works best by establishing a close relationship with your health care team. Together, you and your primary care doctor can discuss making healthy lifestyle choices and when and how often to get preventive services, such as cancer screenings, well checks and vaccinations. The right preventive care at every stage of life helps us all stay healthy and avoid or delay the onset of disease—or keep the disease from becoming worse or debilitating, leading to healthier futures and reducing the overall cost of health care. Opportunities for prevention im- pact all of our community members, regardless of age, income or perceived health status. Many private insurance companies and Medicare cover certain recommended preventive services. I encourage you to see what’s covered in your insurance plan. If you don’t have health insurance, there are many resources and programs available that may help reduce or waive these costs. We understand that billing can be a complicated process. I encourage you to call 402-644-7145 to speak to a representative at Faith Regional if you have a question about your bill. If at some point you do need more specialized care, Faith Regional Health Services has over 150 providers on its medical staff offering over 30 special- ties right here in Norfolk and area communities, so you’ll never have to travel far to get the health care you need. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Healthy futures come from wellness today