Dr. Vinita Mathew
Concern for the overall well-being of my patients is something that drives me in my endeavor to practice whole person care.
My approach to healthcare goes beyond simply treating illnesses when they arise. I firmly believe in the power of prevention and health promotion to help them live their healthiest, most vibrant life.
The Importance of Prevention
Many of the leading causes of death and disability today, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and many infectious diseases, are preventable. By making healthy lifestyle choices and utilizing preventive services like regular screenings, health check-ups and immunizations, we can avoid many serious health problems before they start.
Prevention is also more cost-effective than treatment. Investing in your health now can save you significant time, money, and suffering down the road. Regular check-ups, open communication with your doctor, and proactive steps to improve your health are some of the best investments each of you can make.
Empowering You to Take Charge
The role of a family physician is to partner with our patients and provide them with the knowledge, tools and support to take charge of their well-being. We work closely with every individual under our care to:
- Assess their unique health risks and needs
- Set achievable goals for improving their health
- Develop a personalized prevention plan tailored to their lifestyle
- Provide guidance, encouragement and accountability along the way
Together, we can create sustainable healthy habits that become a natural part of their daily life. Small steps, consistently taken, can lead to profound improvements in how they look and feel.
Whole Person Care
Prevention is firmly grounded in whole person care. This means looking at an individual’s physical, mental, emotional and social well-being as interconnected parts of a whole. Optimal health requires nurturing all aspects of yourself.
For example, managing stress is just as important as eating well and exercising. Cultivating strong social connections and finding meaning in life also contribute immensely to health and longevity.
The Time is Now
The best time to prioritize prevention is now. I encourage all readers to schedule your annual check-up with your family physician if you haven’t already. Go prepared with questions and an open mind. It’s critical that you work together with your physician to create a prevention plan that fits your unique needs and lifestyle.
Remember, you have the power to transform your health. With the right knowledge, tools and support, you can avoid many serious illnesses and live your best life. Today is the day to get started!
