DEAR DR. GOTT: My husband and I are both in our mid-70s and have recently moved to Florida. We both just finished so-called complete physical examinations by two different doctors.
Since we’re both disappointed with what was done, or should we say what was not done, please tell us what should have been done and what tests should have been ordered.
DEAR READER: I assume you took your medical records with you or had them forwarded to your new physicians. This would have allowed a review of any existing problems and X-ray and laboratory test results. Issues such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease should have been discussed and followed up on.
An appropriate exam for a man in his 70s should consist of a complete medical history, physical examination and EKG as a baseline study if an abnormality exists or if the test has not been done in more than a year. His physician should have ordered a colonoscopy if one has not been done in the past 10 years, annual blood tests (especially for cholesterol and prostate cancer) and possibly a stress test to rule out cardiac disease. Other testing may be indicated if there are signs of disease.
An appropriate examination for a woman in her 70s should consist of a complete history and exam, including a pelvic exam (a Pap test is not necessary), a baseline EKG, colonoscopy every 10 years, annual mammogram and a bone-density every two years under Medicare payment guidelines. If there are signs of breast abnormalities or osteoporosis, the testing should be performed more frequently. Lab tests for cholesterol, anemia and other areas of concern should be included. Further testing may be indicated in special circumstances.
If you have a problem with your new physicians, meet with them to express your disappointment and allow them to respond to your concerns. It’s often difficult at any age to adjust to a new physician with a different style than one might be accustomed to, and for you to feel comfortable with change, you need to resolve any issues.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Choosing a Physician.”
DEAR DR. GOTT: This is in response to the writer looking for a safe deodorant.
After years of using and changing deodorants because they failed, I found the mineral stone. I’ve used it for more than 10 years. I apply it daily after a bath and have never had an odor problem since. I’m thoroughly satisfied, and it’s perfectly safe to use.
DEAR READER: I’ve been waiting for readers to recommend a safe and effective product to reduce perspiration odor. The stone may be a breakthrough. Let me know of your experiences, readers. More later.
Since we’re both disappointed with what was done, or should we say what was not done, please tell us what should have been done and what tests should have been ordered.
DEAR READER: I assume you took your medical records with you or had them forwarded to your new physicians. This would have allowed a review of any existing problems and X-ray and laboratory test results. Issues such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease should have been discussed and followed up on.
An appropriate exam for a man in his 70s should consist of a complete medical history, physical examination and EKG as a baseline study if an abnormality exists or if the test has not been done in more than a year. His physician should have ordered a colonoscopy if one has not been done in the past 10 years, annual blood tests (especially for cholesterol and prostate cancer) and possibly a stress test to rule out cardiac disease. Other testing may be indicated if there are signs of disease.
An appropriate examination for a woman in her 70s should consist of a complete history and exam, including a pelvic exam (a Pap test is not necessary), a baseline EKG, colonoscopy every 10 years, annual mammogram and a bone-density every two years under Medicare payment guidelines. If there are signs of breast abnormalities or osteoporosis, the testing should be performed more frequently. Lab tests for cholesterol, anemia and other areas of concern should be included. Further testing may be indicated in special circumstances.
If you have a problem with your new physicians, meet with them to express your disappointment and allow them to respond to your concerns. It’s often difficult at any age to adjust to a new physician with a different style than one might be accustomed to, and for you to feel comfortable with change, you need to resolve any issues.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Choosing a Physician.”
DEAR DR. GOTT: This is in response to the writer looking for a safe deodorant.
After years of using and changing deodorants because they failed, I found the mineral stone. I’ve used it for more than 10 years. I apply it daily after a bath and have never had an odor problem since. I’m thoroughly satisfied, and it’s perfectly safe to use.
DEAR READER: I’ve been waiting for readers to recommend a safe and effective product to reduce perspiration odor. The stone may be a breakthrough. Let me know of your experiences, readers. More later.