Health Information & Resources

WHY YOU DON’T NEED AN “ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAM"

The old “Annual Physical” used to be a visit when the doctor could review your paper chart to ensure that all routine tests were up to date. With the computers in our office, there are reminders that tell staff when your tests are overdue. These include colon, cervical, breast and prostate cancer screening tests, as well as bone density tests and immunizations. Therefore, an "Annual Physical” is no longer required for this purpose. The “Annual Physical” was also a time for a complete ‘head-to-toe’ examination. However, research has shown that this type of exam does not provide any benefit.

INSTEAD OF ASKING TO BOOK A “PHYSICAL” ...

Ask to book a visit for a specific concern(s) that you may have. Ask if you have any blood work, tests, or cancer screens that are overdue or coming up. These can often be booked without seeing the doctor.

HOW TO CHECK YOUR TEST RESULTS

Did you know that you can check most of your test results online?

Both paediatrician and family doctors provide care for babies, children and teens. Dr. Wright might refer your child to a paediatrician for a specific health issue, but she will continue to be involved in immunizations, routine growth and development, and see them when they are sick.

Prevention of bone loss (or osteoporosis) is an important aspect of staying healthy and active. There are lots of ways we can prevent low bone mass or deterioration of healthy bone tissue through exercise, diet and medical management.

Cancer screening can find cancer early when there is a better chance of treating it successfully. Even if you do not have any symptoms, it is important to get screened. The ages for screening and intervals for testing for many types of cancer can be found at Cancer Care Ontario and My Cancer IQ

Diabetes affects approximately ten percent of all Canadians and is a manageable disease. It takes some time, care and help to manage your diabetes, but the benefits will last you your lifetime. Well-managed diabetes reduces your risk of heart disease, kidney disease and risk of damage to other organs such as your eyes and nerve endings. Along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, there are excellent treatment options to help keep your diabetes in check.

Together with a healthy diet, regular exercise can help moderate your weight, help you sleep better, improve your mood and make it easier to move. Building activity into your every-day life also sets a great example for children. See some of the links below for resources and tips:

Here are some helpful resources for any questions related to staying healthy during flu season.

Every woman experiences menopause differently. The best way to manage your menopause experience is to learn the facts, including the benefits and risks of available therapies, as well as important health concerns to consider during this transition period.

If you are in crisis call 911, present yourself to the nearest Emergency Department or CLICK HERE. Mental health is an important part of YOUR health. Managing stress, addressing anxiety and depression, and recognizing when to seek help can be difficult. If you are experiencing any symptoms or are interested in seeking out some self-help resources please check out some of the resources below.
‍
If you have a new mental health concern, it is best to talk to the doctor so that a treatment plan can be discussed that is right for you

A healthy diet starts at home. It is important to know what you are eating, and how much you are eating. Developing a positive relationship with healthy food is a key foundation to healthy living.

Prenatal care is the health care you get while you are pregnant. Take care of yourself and your baby by getting early and regular prenatal care. This involves a combination of in-person appointments and virtual appointments, along with routine blood tests and ultrasounds. Schedule a visit with Dr. Wright if you know you are pregnant.

It’s helpful at all stages of our life, but particularly in older age, to reflect on your health and ask yourself whether your living situation gives you the best opportunity to remain safe and independent.

For example:

• Are there any areas of your life where you could use some help to live as independently as possible?
• Are there any risks to your safety or well-being in your home?
• Has your ability to make sound decisions about your own health and well-being changed?
• Are you able to manage your own finances and medications?

There are no right or wrong answers. Talk it out with your kids and your friends. The point is to begin thinking about this now, so that when it comes time to make a decision, you’re not rushed.

Understanding your sexual health is an important part of your well-being. It's about being aware of your body, your mind, and your overall health. It also involves taking a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships.

During a good night’s sleep (good sleep hygiene) your body and mind recover from a hard day at work and play!

Quitting smoking is the best choice you can make to improve your overall health and reduce your risk of many diseases, including cancer, heart disease and breathing problems

Learn how to avoid bites from black legged ticks, which may carry Lyme disease.