Preventive Care

in New York, New York

One of the most effective ways to remain healthy is by preventing many conditions from developing in the first place. Although you can do a lot by living a healthy and active lifestyle, you’ll need the help of your gynecologist and physician to perform the right screenings and tests to ensure your body is free of concerns— and provide early intervention where necessary.

What is Preventive Care?

Preventive care is a methodology designed to detect and mitigate the risks for certain conditions that can drastically affect your health. This means that your gynecologist will provide testing and counseling on:

These are the service recommendations laid out by the Women’s Preventive Services Initiative. All of these methods can be completed during or in tandem with a Well Woman’s Visit with your gynecologist, who can also take a broader look at your overall health and recommend positive lifestyle changes to make sure you’re happy and healthy in the long run.

Why is Preventive Care Important?

In the case of certain health concerns like cancer or sexually transmitted diseases, prevention is the best way to mitigate your risks. This means that a proactive approach to your health can reduce the chances of costly and dangerous conditions later on that can be more difficult to treat. Preventive care doesn’t just extend to reproductive health either— your gynecologist can provide counseling on your lifestyle and many different facets of your emotional and physical health.

How Can My Gynecologist Help?

During a Well Woman’s Visit, your gynecologist can discuss your health and any symptoms you may be having. Then, your gynecologist can perform the appropriate screenings for your recommended schedule. Your Well Woman’s Visit is a great time to ask any questions you may have about your body, life stage, symptoms, or wellbeing so you can make informed choices about your health and establish good habits.

Schedule an Appointment

A Well Woman’s Visit is a positive first step in preventive care where your gynecologist can make sure you have what you need to remain healthy and happy. To get started, contact our New York City office by calling or filling out our online form.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you get a Pap smear?

Most women should have a Pap smear every three years beginning at age 21, then every 5 years after age 30 (assuming that her Pap smear results are normal).

How do you practice preventive health care?

The purpose of preventative healthcare visits is to screen for diseases, look for signs of future diseases, update vaccinations, encourage a healthy lifestyle, and discuss medicines or supplements that you are taking.

How often can you get a preventive colonoscopy?

By age 45-50, individuals who do not have an increased risk of colorectal cancer should undergo colonoscopy regularly, usually at 5-year intervals. However, gastroenterologists may recommend other time frames based on individual needs.

What is the difference between a physical and a wellness exam?

A physical involves an exam by a doctor along with possible bloodwork and/or other tests. A wellness exam doesn't usually include a physical exam, except to check height, weight, and blood pressure.

Are colonoscopies considered preventive care?

Yes, colonoscopies are routine screenings for colon cancer, but they are also performed in response to abdominal symptoms like chronic diarrhea or abdominal pain.

Does insurance cover a physical?

Most insurance plans pay for a physical once a year. However, be sure to check with your individual insurance provider.

Are Pap smears considered preventive care?

Yes, as screening for cervical cancer, Pap smears give your gynecologist up-to-date information on the health of your cervix to ensure you're receiving the proper testing and health care needed.

Whats included in a wellness exam?

Age dependent - - includes complete physical exam, often Pap smears, cervical cultures and appropriate blood work; mammograms, colonoscopy and bone density are ordered when appropriate

Learn More on the Healthful Woman Podcast

“I have been seeing Dr. Lam for about 15 years. There is no better OB/GYN out there. Saying she makes you comfortable is an understatement. I know I have been going to her for a long time, but even early on she always remembers little details about who you are, and to have a doctor like that in NYC is priceless.”

-Giuliva A.
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