I recently picked a new primary care doctor. After two visits and a bunch of lab tests, he looked at me and said, “You’re doing fairly well for your age.” A little concerned, I couldn’t help but ask, “Doc, do you think I’ll make it to 80?” He paused and asked, “Well, do you smoke or drink?” “Oh no, never!” I replied. “Do you eat rib-eye steaks or barbecue?” “Nope! I’ve heard red meat isn’t healthy.” “Do you spend time outdoors? Golf, sailing, rock climbing?” “No, I prefer to stay inside.” “Do yo

Most people think “follow up with your doctor” is optional… but it’s actually one of the most important parts of your care. ER and urgent care teams rule out emergencies — they don’t manage all the incidental findings, abnormal labs, or non-urgent issues they uncover. If you never follow up, those results get lost… and you never get the full picture. Your primary care doctor is the one who reviews everything and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks. Always follow up. It’s how you get comp