Preventative care is a key factor in reducing health risks, yet many women bypass their recommended screenings. A primary care provider from Baylor College of Medicine highlights the significance of regular health check-ups for women.
“Women are often caregivers and tend to be very focused on health of the family and tend to neglect their own health often times,” said Dr. Saundra Nguyen, assistant professor of medicine at Baylor. “I always remind patients that it’s super important to take care of themselves so they can take care of others around them. I see it as an act of self-care.”
Some women skip annual appointments due to busy schedules or past negative healthcare experiences.
“If people don’t feel that something is actively bothering them or they don’t see anything, it’s easy to put their health on the back burner,” she said.
Dr. Nguyen emphasizes the importance for women and all adults to have a primary care doctor. In addition to general and mental health screenings, there are specific screenings crucial for women's health.
Regular visits to a primary care physician are advised at least once annually, with most insurance plans covering these preventative exams. It's important for patients to find a doctor who matches their needs and with whom they feel comfortable discussing concerns. Dr. Nguyen suggests doctors should collaborate with patients on understanding their goals and priorities.
"Find someone you’re comfortable with and feel like you’re heard and that they care about your health – then you’re more likely to come back,” she said. “It’s worth your time to invest in your health and prevention, and that helps continue the cycle.”
