Why Men Need Their PCPs: Here’s the Truth

Why is it that many men tend to postpone medical visits? Often, apprehension plays a significant role. It is natural to have concerns about potential diagnoses; however, it is important to understand that being informed gives you the tools needed to make good decisions. Your health journey begins with scheduling that first appointment. Do not allow anxiety to get in the way of optimal health. Matthew Reetz, DO, a primary care physician (PCP) at Bayhealth’s Blue Hen location, outlines the reasons why seeing a PCP annually is important.

1) One appointment, one comprehensive checkup. Regular checkups are your best defense against having to see multiple specialists. By staying proactive with your health, you can catch issues before they escalate, saving yourself time, stress, and unnecessary visits.

2) Prostate cancer is typically not discovered until it has progressed. Listed the second leading cause of death for men, patients diagnosed at an early stage have a much better prognosis.

3) Colon cancer health is important, especially after age 45. There are many silent symptoms that can be discovered early.

4) Vaccines can help you prevent illness. Your PCP can help you decide which ones are appropriate for you before you get sick.

5) Your PCP sees you as a human, not a number. They pay attention, empathize, and emphasize your health as well as your family’s.

Dr. Reetz knows well the importance of prevention as his own father was diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age. He knows that taking charge of your health starts with a simple step: a checkup. Go to Bayhealth.org/Find-A-Doc today to find a PCP who can help you take the first step toward wellness.