According to an article recently published in USA Today, roughly half of American adults (between the ages of 18 and 50) don’t have a family physician. On top of that shocking statistic, about one third of Americans adults admit they haven’t seen a doctor for a check-up in over a year!
If you lack health benefits or insurance its no wonder you skip yearly screenings with GPs, dentists, optometrists, and others. However, making time for the following health professionals can be the proactive difference between a minor health issue and a major condition or life-threatening disease…
1. Gynecologist
Even if you have general practitioner ladies, you should still see a gynecologist annually if you are over the age of 18 and sexually active. If you need a referral for a gynecologist for female related stuff—reproductive issues, STDs, pregnancy—ask your GP for a referral. Pelvic exams and pap tests should be performed annually for women 18 to 29-years-old. While those 30 to 64-years should have them every other year (or more frequently upon doctor referral).
