PRIORITIZE YOUR HEALTH How to Handle Your Health Care Needs During a Pandemic
T
he COVID-19 pandemic has changed our communities and reshaped how we get health care. While social distancing remains important as we move Dr. Chante Ellison-Hodges forward, taking care of ongoing health needs should also be a top priority. When you need care, it’s important to take action right away.
Dr. Ashley C. Pan
4 LEADING MEDICINE IN NORTHWEST HOUSTON
Postponing health care visits or treatments may actually hurt your health in the long run. If you delay going to the doctor for small problems like a rash, an infected toenail or urinary tract infection, these issues can become bigger problems and may require urgent attention. Now is the time to be proactive about identifying health risks and following through on treatment plans. “Preventive care is important to keep current. Follow through with all health screenings, vaccinations, medications and
treatments your doctor recommends,” said Dr. Chante Ellison-Hodges, a primary care doctor at Houston Methodist Willowbrook. “Postponing screening tests may result in more serious health problems in the future.” If you have a chronic condition, you should work with your doctor to improve your health. “If you pay attention to managing any health issues you may have today, you may be healthier to ward off an illness or infection down the road,” said Dr. Ashley C. Pan, an internal medicine doctor at Houston Methodist Willowbrook.
PUTTING SAFETY FIRST
As we navigate how to interact within the community, we’re learning that COVID-19 may be with us for a long time. While we wait for answers on vaccines and immunity, we’re finding ways to adjust to a new normal and return to our daily activities in a safe manner. This involves wearing masks in public, keeping 6 feet apart from others and staying vigilant about handwashing
