Primary care physicians are uniquely positioned to help adults improve their cardiovascular health by promoting simple and actionable lifestyle changes, the American Heart Association contends in a recent scientific statement.
“Primary care plays a central role in people’s health and health care across their lifetime,” said Chair of the statement writing group Madeline R. Sterling, M.D., M.P.H., M.S., FAHA. “Primary care professionals have the potential to greatly improve the identification and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors and health behaviors in their patients.”
While cardiovascular disease rates have dropped in recent years, it remains the leading cause of death in the United States. As a way to augment primary care in the battle against heart disease, in 2022 the AHA introduced “Life’s Essential 8,” a list of key measures for Americans to improve and maintain their heart health.
Primary care is also an essential component of MedBen WellLiving. By providing annual wellness exams and recommended screenings, primary care physicians can identify risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes before they lead to heart disease.
Building long-term relationships with patients also allows for personalized care and the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices. Ultimately, primary care serves as the first line of defense in reducing the burden of chronic disease and improving overall health outcomes.
Take an important first step toward a healthier employee population by integrating MedBen WellLiving into your health plan. Get more information by calling MedBen at 888-627-8683.