Concierge medicine is a membership-based healthcare approach that provides members with benefits rarely found in a typical medical practice. At Lake Country Medical Concierge we are dedicated to providing high quality,  personalized comprehensive care,  along with superior customer service. Our focus is on thoroughness, convenience, and accessibility throughout the year. We take a proactive approach to healthcare by preventing illness and disease from occurring.   Dr Chronos always says, “ Why do you need to get sick to get well, why not just stay well?”  With 24/7 availability, our goal is to be here when you need us. 

Concierge medicine offers many benefits to its members. Continue  reading to learn more about why you may want to consider Lake Country Medical Concierge as your primary care medical group…

 

 

1. Concierge Medicine Saves You Time

Concierge medical practices save you a great deal of time and hassle. You will get an appointment with us the same or next day.   The  average waiting time for an appointment at a traditional primary care practice is several weeks.  Here your appointment will start on time; meaning you will not be stuck in the lobby waiting an hour or so  for your visit to begin.  You will receive age appropriate screenings, bloodwork, and imaging in house keeping you from having to travel to another location and wait in additional waiting rooms. When you call us our team answers the phone call. You do not have to worry about calling several numbers and talking to a hierarchy of people to get in touch with your doctor. A dedicated team manages all concierge patients within the practice.  We understand that all of this time adds up. At Lake Country Medical Concierge we offer the convenience of time. 

2. More Quality Time With Your Doctor 

By limiting the number of patients at the concierge practice, we can offer additional benefits that are not possible in a traditional practice. On average, a concierge doctor spends 30 minutes with a patient compared to the seven or eight minutes that a traditional doctor spends. You will  have time to talk about all your health concerns and get your questions answered. We will work with you one-on-one to help you stay well and prevent illness. It is important to us to develop a great understanding of each patient’s medical history and issues.  Prevention is only possible with an in depth understanding of both medical and social factors that impact disease state development.

3. 24/7 Access to Your Doctor

We are available 24/7 to take your call. In addition, your call goes directly to a team member who knows who you are and has access to your medical history. This is critical to getting you feeling better faster. Quicker access also prevents emergency room visits because we can treat you over the phone or  see you in the office within 24 hours.  This enables not only continuity of care, but also access to the concierge care team when patients are traveling.  Through our remote patient monitoring systems we have the ability to closely monitor patients physiological variables at home, providing more consistent care rather than the episodic care seen only in the physician’s offices.

4. A Focus on Prevention 

Seeing patients more often and for longer periods of time means we can focus on preventative care. The episodic care traditional physicians provide focuses on identifying current issues and quickly resolving those matters. Concierge doctors can take the time to look at your entire health history on each visit, which often helps them identify and diagnose issues as they’re developing, rather than when they’re already serious. We work with our patients to identify risk factors, prevent disease and optimize treatment, from early detection to coaching patients on lifestyle changes that can prevent future health woes. 

5. Concierge Medicine is Cost-Effective

A concierge doctor can focus on fewer patients than a traditional physician, allowing them to focus on preventive care with better insight into each patient’s health. This can help control healthcare costs for those patients. The 24/7 access that is structured into concierge medicine reduces the number of emergency room visits. This in turn reduces the costly medical bills that come with ER visits.  Also, because of the preventative aspect of concierge medicine we get ahead of costly illnesses and diseases. Through prevention we minimize the medical bills that may arise down the road.  

6. In Office Tests and Screenings 

At Lake Country Medical Concierge we offer a wide range of inhouse diagnostics and screening tests. While you are in the office we have the ability to provide advanced imaging including top to toe ultrasound, echocardiogram, and nuclear stress testing. In addition, we have convenient access to in office or at home lab draws through Cleveland Heart Lab. We also provide in-house vaccinations, immunizations, and travel consultation medicine. 

 

At Lake Country Medical Concierge, our mission is to provide patient-centered access to compassionate, personalized health care which will optimize quality of life through our innovative care solutions. Members can experience better healthcare with more convenience. If you would like more information about our medical practice visit our website at lakecountrymedicalconcierge.com or call us at 706-510-3659.

Thank you for your interest in our Concierge Medicine program.

Springtime is planting season! While you’re busy pruning, primping, fertilizing and sculpting those backyard garden beds, it’s also a great time to consider seeds for your health. They’re a delicious addition to your diet and offer a wealth of health benefits. Seeds are high in fiber and monosaturated fats. They’re also packed with nutrient-rich minerals such as iron, zinc and calcium, and they’re a great source of protein.

Here’s a look at six sensational seeds and how you can incorporate them into your daily menu.

Flaxseed

Also called linseeds, flaxseeds are brown with hard, crispy covers. They’re loaded with omega-3 fats, fiber, protein and potassium. But their real superpower comes from being a high source of lignans, a type of antioxidant. Research has shown lignans may help prevent heart disease and cancer. Flaxseed may also:

• Improve cholesterol
• Lower blood pressure
• Regulate blood sugar
• Promote weight loss
• Balance hormones (especially for post-menopausal women)
• Build healthy hair and skin

Nutritionists recommend eating ground up flaxseeds instead of whole seeds because they’re easier to digest and absorb. You can mix flaxseed into hot cereals, yogurts and smoothies. While there’s no definitive daily recommendation, 1-2 tablespoons are considered a healthy amount.

Sunflower seeds

Many people love sunflower seeds for their mild, nutty flavor. Sunflower seeds can be eaten raw or roasted to enhance the flavor. They’re packed with nutrients, from vitamin E, selenium and zinc, to linoleic fatty acids, proteins and several anti-inflammatory plant compounds including phenolic acids and flavonoids.

Studies have shown sunflower seeds may contribute to:

• Lowering the risk of developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or heart disease
• Reducing cholesterol
• Supporting your immune system
• Boosting energy levels

A popular way to eat sunflower seeds is unshelled, but watch out for any added sodium, especially if you’re prone to high blood pressure or other health conditions that call for limiting your sodium intake. Sunflower seeds are a great snack you can add to trail mix, salads, muffins and cookies.

Chia seeds 

Chia seeds are gaining in popularity as an edible nutrition source with some serious health benefits. They’re high in fiber, protein, calcium, phosphorous and zinc. If you’re not a fan of eating fish, chia seeds are a great way to access omega-3 fatty acids for better heart health. After all, they’re known to have the highest amount of plant-based omega-3. Both animal and human studies show omega-3 fatty acids are good for:

• Lowering high blood pressure
• Regulating cholesterol levels
• Preventing blood clots
• Decreasing inflammation

More research is needed to establish a firmer link between the effects of chia seeds to promote weight loss, improve digestive health and boost energy and metabolism. You can add chia seeds to fruit and veggie salads, yogurt, cottage cheese and cereals. Be sure to store chia seeds in a cool, dry spot. They can last 4-5 years without refrigeration.

Sesame seeds

Sesame seeds are an excellent source of protein, fiber, healthy fats, iron, calcium, vitamin B1 and magnesium. They’re also rich in antioxidants, such as selenium, and come in second behind flaxseeds for being the best source of lignans. A major lignan in sesame seeds and sesame oil is called ‘sesamin’ and is known for both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Sesame seeds may also help:

• Protect the liver from damage
• Reduce high blood pressure
• Reduce cholesterol levels
• Prevent PMS issues

You typically find sesame seeds on hamburger buns and bagels. They’re also great sprinkled in salads and spread as a layer on top of broiled salmon. You might be surprised to know that sesame seeds can be ground into a paste called tahini, a key ingredient in hummus. Eating tahini is an easier way to absorb the nutrients in sesame seeds, but it’s also high in calories, so be sure to eat it in moderation.

Pumpkin seeds 

Most people think of pumpkin seeds in the autumn when they scoop out — then typically toss out — the seeds while carving pumpkins for Halloween. But pumpkin seeds are a healthy snack filled with protein, fiber and minerals, plus poly- and mono-unsaturated fats. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of magnesium, which is important for bone formation, as well as zinc, an important mineral to strengthen your immune system.

The nutrients in pumpkin seeds may also help:

• Protect against type 2 diabetes
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels
• Decrease the risk of heart disease

Pumpkin seeds can be eaten with or without their shells. Eating them unshelled will give you more fiber. You can even make your own pumpkin butter using a food processor by blending whole raw seeds into a smooth, creamy spread.

Roasted pumpkin seeds are popular, especially if you spice them up with chili powder, cayenne pepper or turmeric. Remember, pumpkin seeds are high in both fiber and fat, so avoid eating more than one cup at a time to cut down on calories as well gas and bloating.

Hemp seeds

Hemp seeds have only recently become popular here in the West, but they’ve been a staple food source in other societies for generations. Hemp seeds have a mild, nutty flavor and are sometimes called hemp hearts. Hemp is from the same species as cannabis, but has only a trace amount of THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana.

Hemp seeds are nutrient rich and high in calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous and folate. They contain the most protein of all the seeds and are a great source of omega-3 and omega-6 fats.

Hemp is linked to a number of potential health benefits including:

• Protecting the brain
• Reducing inflammation
• Boosting heart health
• Improving skin conditions
• Relieving rheumatoid arthritis

Hemp seeds are larger and crunchier than other seeds, so they work well in yogurt, cereal and salads. They’re also great added to a vegetarian stir-fry.

It’s best to eat hemp seeds in moderation due to their high fat content. Nutritionists recommend starting with a small amount of just one teaspoon and working up to a daily serving of two tablespoons. Hemp seeds inhibit platelet formation and may interact with anticoagulant medications. So, if you’re on medication, be sure to talk to your doctor before integrating hemp into your diet.

These six sensational seeds can add great flavor and nutrition to everyday snacks and meals, but it’s always best to consider your overall diet and eat with variety for optimal health.

 

Sources:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/the-6-best-seeds-to-eat/

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/47155107_Dietary_lignans_Physiology_and_potential_for_cardiovascular_disease_risk_reduction

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-18944-0

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/flaxseed/faq-20058354

https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/flaxseed-is-nutritionally-powerful

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-flaxseeds#TOC_TITLE_HDR_5

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sunflower-seeds#nutrition

https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/chia-seeds/

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3Fatty%20AcidsandHealth-HealthProfessional/

https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/seed-of-the-month-sesame-seeds

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1319016420301985

https://yourhealthtube.com/4-seeds-luxurious-health-benefits-get-daily-dose-luxury2/

https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-features/chia-seeds/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/303864

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-health-benefits-of-hemp-seeds

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/308044#possible-health-benefits-of-consuming-hemp

Some days, staying on top of all the latest news and science about COVID-19 can seem like a full-time job. We’re here to help.  As we enter a new and more hopeful phase of the pandemic, we’ve sorted through all the clutter to give you just what you need to know about vaccines and virus variants, as well as exciting developments on the horizon.

COVID-19 VACCINES

There are currently 3 authorized vaccines available in the US:

• Pfizer/BioNTech – double dose vaccine, 21 days between dosing
• Moderna – double dose vaccine, 28 days between dosing
• Johnson & Johnson (J&J) – single dose vaccine

The Moderna and J&J vaccine are available to people aged 18 years and older. Teenagers who are 16 years and older are eligible for the Pfizer vaccine. The vaccines are especially critical for people who are aged 70 and up, as well as those with underlying conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, some autoimmune disorders and obesity. Public health officials urge everyone who can to get vaccinated, so we can achieve herd immunity more quickly and stop COVID’s spread.

WHAT ABOUT VACCINES FOR CHILDREN?

Moderna announced this week that the first children have been vaccinated in a COVID vaccine clinical trial. Moderna is enrolling approximately 6,750 children in the US and Canada between 6 months and 11 years old. The tests are being conducted to determine if the vaccine protects children from getting sick after coming in contact with coronavirus.

Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech have already begun testing their shots in teens and pre-teens between the ages of 12 and 18. Results could come as early as this summer. J&J has also announced plans to test their vaccine in adolescents.

ARE VACCINES SAFE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN?

Pregnant women were not included in earlier clinical trials, but last month Pfizer/BioNTech launched the first global clinical trial to test the safety and effectiveness of its COVID vaccine in pregnant women. COVID can be especially dangerous for expectant mothers, so this is an important study, and the vaccines can be life-saving. While current data on vaccine safety and pregnant women is limited, the Centers for Disease Control recommends women should talk to their doctors to determine their risk for contracting COVID.

SHOULD I BE WORRIED ABOUT THE COVID-19 VARIANTS?

The virus has been mutating since its first appearance which is naturally what viruses do. While many mutations don’t change the virus much and some mutations might also make the virus weaker, it’s the changes that strengthen the virus that are most worrying. Currently, researchers are keeping an eye on these mutations:

B.1.1.7 (UK strain)

• First detected in the United Kingdom in September 2020
• Has spread to 94 countries, including the US where more than 3,000 cases have been reported
• Known to spread more easily than older variants; some studies have shown a higher risk of death although more research is needed
• Current vaccines are reported to be just as effective against the B.1.1.7 mutation

B.1.351 (South African strain):

• First detected in the US in late January
• Considered more easily transmissible but it’s still not known if the mutation is deadlier
• Preliminary studies show that the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines may offer some protection against this mutation, but they are thought to be ‘less effective’ than against the original strain
• This mutation may override the natural antibodies that people who have been previously infected have now developed, making them vulnerable to reinfection

P.1 (Brazil strain):

• First discovered in Brazil in December. Has spread to 26 countries and 10 states
• Studies show this mutation is more easily transmissible but potentially not deadlier
• Vaccines may be less effective against this mutation

Homegrown variants

• Currently, 2 variants have been discovered in the US, including one from the West Coast (B.1.427/B.1.429 or CAL2.0C) and one in New York City (B.1.526)
• Preliminary research shows the New York variant may weaken the effectiveness of the vaccines
• The California strain may be more transmissible and lethal, however, more research is needed to confirm findings

The good news is that companies with COVID-19 vaccines have already begun testing on updated versions designed to effectively block infection from the variants.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS

According to the World Health Organization, new and improved vaccines are in the pipeline.  More than 80 vaccines are being studied, although some are in the early stages of testing and may not be effective. Vaccines that don’t use needles and can be stored at room temperature could be ready for use later this year or in 2022. Researchers are also focusing on alternative delivery systems and technologies for vaccines to be given orally, by a nasal spray, or through a skin patch. These could be helpful to specific groups who don’t do well with injections.

This marks an exciting time of scientific collaboration that will accelerate vaccines and treatments for other viruses and conditions. It is a promising trend that we hope will usher in a new era of innovation and help millions of people suffering from a range of health conditions around the world.

At Lake Country Medical Concierge, we’ll keep you posted on all the latest COVID-related developments as they are announced. Be sure to check our dedicated COVID-19 page for local information pertaining to Eatonton, Greensboro, Reynolds Lake Oconee, and other places throughout Putnam and Greene counties: here

In the meantime, stay safe and healthy!

 

Sources:

https://www.cnet.com/health/coronavirus-variants-what-you-need-to-know/

https://www.statnews.com/2021/02/05/what-scientists-know-variants-covid-19-vaccines/

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/24/health/coronavirus-variant-nyc.html

https://www.statnews.com/2021/01/19/coronavirus-variants-transmissibility-disease-reinfection/

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/info-by-product/clinical-considerations.html

https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2021/02/coronavirus-strain-first-identified-california-may-be-more-infectious-and-cause-more

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-15/better-covid-vaccines-are-coming-who-s-chief-scientist-says

The good weather is just around the corner. Getting outdoors in the sunshine and starting a daily walking routine provides great health benefits. Let’s explore the perks of walking and check out important gear to make your walk both comfortable and safe.

Walk for Your Life

Walking offers a variety of remarkable health benefits.

Research indicates walking is great for cardiovascular health, for example. Regular, moderate walking reduces the risk of cardiovascular events by 31% and lowers the risk of dying from cardiovascular events by 32%, according to Harvard Health. Even people who walk as little as 5 ½ miles per week at a pace as slow as 2 miles per hour can enjoy cardiovascular benefits, though those who walk farther and faster accumulate greater protection.

Walking also can boost your immune system. A study of 1,000 people found walking at least 20 minutes a day, 5 days per week resulted in 43% fewer sick days, according to Harvard Health. The same study suggested regular walkers experience shorter, milder symptoms even if they become sick.

Other research indicates seniors who regularly walk are 28% less likely to become disabled and 18% less likely to have had any episode of physical disability, according to Harvard Health.

Walking is good for your mind, too. Studies show replacing roughly one hour of sitting with around one hour of moderate physical activity — such as fast walking — can reduce the risk of depression and lessen cognitive decline in older Americans.

Gearing Up

Being ill-prepared can make walking feel like a chore, so it’s crucial to choose the right gear.

Good shoes are essential. Steer clear of flip-flops and boots. Instead, go for shoes specifically designed for walking. Make sure your shoes sturdily support your feet while allowing adequate movement. Pair them with comfortable socks made of sweat-wicking fabric. Avoid cotton socks, which can retain moisture and make your feet clammy

It’s also important to choose the right shirt and pants. Sweat-wicking fabric is a must here, too. It’s best to wear a long-sleeve or short-sleeve shirt — skin-baring tops allow too much sun exposure. Make sure your pants are neither too loose nor too tight; a good fit will help you move with ease. Depending on the weather that day, you may need to layer up. If so, you should wear a well-fitted, sweat-wicking base layer. From there, add a layer of insulation — such as a wool shirt. You may also need a weatherproof outer layer, such as a jacket. Remove layers as needed to avoid overheating. No matter what, remember to wear bright colors and, at night, reflective stripes to stay visible to drivers.

Headgear can enhance your walk as well. A simple visor will shield your face from the sun, but more substantial options such as a sun hat will offer more protection — though at the risk of causing worse “hat hair.” Keep a rain hat handy for drizzly days.

Avoiding sunburn is key. In addition to wearing sun-blocking clothing, don’t forget to apply sunscreen to any exposed areas of skin. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Wear UV-blocking sunglasses to guard your eyes, too.

Be sure to bring a water bottle along to stay hydrated — especially for a longer walk.

Finally, remember to stay vigilant against COVID-19. Wear a facemask if you’re walking indoors, or if you’re walking outdoors around other people. You can check the State of Georgia website for the latest guidelines.

So, are you ready to add walking to your daily routine? Gear up, head out and seize walking’s amazing benefits today!

Sources:

1. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/walking-your-steps-to-health
2. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/5-surprising-benefits-of-walking
3. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/walking-exercise-helps-seniors-stay-mobile-independent-201405287173
4. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2720689
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3575139/
6. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000817.htm
7. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm
8. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun
9. https://georgia.gov/maskup

Two new studies are adding to a growing body of evidence suggesting COVID-19 causes chronic, debilitating symptoms long past infection and illness. There are now more than 50 symptoms tied to COVID in mild, moderate and severe cases. Fatigue, headaches, brain fog, hair loss, and loss of smell are the most common lingering effects while more worrying symptoms such as lung problems, chest pain, heart problems, sleep disorders and neurological issues have also been reported.

The first investigation is a large meta-analysis that included data from 15 studies in the US, Britain and Europe and involved nearly 48-thousand patients. It found eight out of 10 COVID-19 patients had lingering symptoms or signs 14 or more days after acute infection. At Houston Methodist Research Institute, one site where the data was collected, clinicians found fatigue was the most common symptom of both long and acute COVID-19, and remained present 100 days after onset.

The meta-analysis revealed that during follow up appointments, more than a third of patients had an abnormal chest x-ray or CT scan. Tests also showed elevated biomarkers for inflammation, such as D-dimer and C-reactive protein (CPR). Other symptoms included persistent cough, chest discomfort and pulmonary fibrosis, as well as cardiac arrhythmias, inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), depression, anxiety and sleep issues.

Last month, the prestigious medical journal, The Lancet, reported findings from another study that followed hospitalized patients in Wuhan, China. It showed 76% of those patients were still struggling with the after-effects of COVID-19 six months later. The study cited fatigue and muscle weakness as the most common symptoms. However, some patients experience lasting impacts such as long-term cardiac damage, lung damage and kidney damage.

Because COVID-19 is a new disease, it’s not known how long many of the symptoms will last. Even patients with a mild case of COVID-19 report lasting symptoms for months after infection, such as breathlessness while walking. Adding further to the mystery, researchers are still trying to determine why some people experience these persistent problems — especially when the virus is no longer detected. In many cases, chest x-rays, scans and other tests mysteriously come back normal or negative.

There’s no specific diagnosis for post-COVID symptoms. The syndrome has been described as “long COVID” and those suffering with it as “long haulers.” While at first, some experts dismissed the idea of long haulers due to the lack of medical evidence and inconsistent test results, the medical community is now paying close attention. Dr. Anthony Komaroff, editor-in-chief of the Harvard Health Letter, believes post-COVID-19 symptoms can affect a wide range of people from young to old — those who were healthy, those who have been hospitalized, and those with mild cases. As he states, it’s not unthinkable that 50 million Americans could ultimately become infected. If just 5% of COVID patients develop lingering symptoms, post-COVID treatment will become even more critical.

The head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Dr. Anthony Fauci, has suggested “long COVID” resembles a condition called myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome or ME/CFS. More commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome, ME/CFS has symptoms including extreme fatigue, sleep dysfunction, and brain fog — similar to symptoms reported by long-COVID sufferers — and is known to develop following viral infection. A recent study at the Stanford University School of Medicine indicates inflammation is a powerful driver behind chronic fatigue syndrome. Similarly, some scientists believe inflammation could be an underlying factor in the lingering effects of COVID-19. More studies with standardized testing are needed to determine whether COVID-19 directly causes long-term symptoms or if these symptoms are caused by a preexisting disease or condition.

If you’ve had COVID and are still dealing with lingering symptoms that impact the quality of your life, contact your doctor or healthcare provider.

Sources:

• https://www.medpagetoday.com/infectiousdisease/covid19/90966
• https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32656-8/fulltext
• https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-tragedy-of-the-post-covid-long-haulers-2020101521173
• https://meassociation.org.uk/2020/07/americas-top-doctors-turn-me-cfs-into-a-subject-for-everyday-discussion-as-the-covid-19-crisis-deepens/
• https://www.nbt.nhs.uk/our-services/a-z-services/bristol-chronic-fatigue-syndromeme-service/post-viral-fatigue-a-guide-management
• https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2017/07/researchers-id-biomarkers-associated-with-chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html
• https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-02598-6