Martin’s Point Patient Email | August Edition

Make a splash—safely!

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the lake, the ocean, or a relaxing afternoon by the pool. The American Red Cross encourages all adults to learn key water safety skills to keep everyone safe while having fun. Visit their website for more information and safety tips.

Protect your skin with UV safety awareness

While sun safety matters year round, the summer months are a great time to be reminded to take steps to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Enjoy the outdoors safely—visit our website for tips.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

Vaccines play an essential role in staying healthy throughout every stage of life. Check with the CDC or visit our website for recommended vaccination schedules based on age and health conditions. Have questions about your personal needs? Reach out to your care team through the Martin’s Point Patient Portal.

Statins: A simple pill to protect your heart

Has your provider suggested you may benefit from taking a statin medication? Statins help reduce your low-density lipids (LDL)—sometimes called your “bad cholesterol”—which can build up in your blood vessels and lead to heart disease and strokes. A statin may be recommended if you have high cholesterol, diabetes, and/or high blood pressure, or if you or a family member has already had a heart attack or stroke. Even if you feel fine, a statin can help prevent problems before they start.

• Concerned about side effects?
  While most people don’t have side effects, some (less than 5%) may experience mild muscle aches or tiredness at first. If that happens, your provider can help find a different kind of statin or a lower dose that works better for you.
  
  
• Statins + Healthy Habits = Stronger Heart
  Though statins can be very effective, they don’t replace healthy habits. You should still eat well, stay active, and avoid smoking, but adding a statin to your daily routine can give you more protection. If you’ve been prescribed a statin, make sure to take it as directed to get the most benefit. If you’re not sure if a statin is right for you, talk with your provider—it’s a small pill that can make a big difference.

Flu season is coming

Fall—and flu shots—are just around the corner! Keep an eye out for announcements about upcoming Martin’s Point flu shot clinics.

Back-to-school health reminders

Need a sports physical? Preparing school immunization records? Contact your care team early to beat the rush!

All about appointments

• If you have a medical concern, call us first for a timely appointment
  If you need non-emergency care, don’t hesitate to call your Martin’s Point care team. We will make every effort to schedule an appointment as soon as possible to meet your needs¬—including same-day and next-day appointments when available. Remember: If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
  
  
• Appointment time updates—here’s what to expect
  This month, you may receive appointment reminders by phone, text, or email reflecting updated appointment times as we transition to a new scheduling format. Please note the appointment time provided in these reminders will be correct and may reflect a slightly adjusted (5-10 minutes) start time. Please do your best to arrive at your appointment on time. Thank you for your patience as we work to improve your experience!
  
  
• Coming soon: easier scheduling options
  We’re getting ready to launch self-scheduling options at our Scarborough, Gorham, and Brunswick locations. Stay tuned for updates!
  
  
• Are you on Medicare? Don’t forget to schedule your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit if you haven’t already. During these important yearly appointments,  your PCP and their care team can review your current medications, discuss preventive practices and recommended screenings, and ensure you are up to date on your immunizations. Schedule yours today.

We’re welcoming new patients!

Know someone in need of primary care? Several of our Health Care Centers are accepting new patients of all ages. We accept most major insurance plans. Interested? Complete our online New Patient Inquiry Form or call your local Martin’s Point Health Care Center.

Welcome to another great new Portsmouth provider!

Do you have family or friends looking for a new provider in the Portsmouth area? See our latest addition to our medical staff who is accepting new patients for select insurances—Keaghan Vogel, PA

Welcome our new chief medical officer

We’re also excited to introduce Donna O’Shea, MD, our new Chief Medical Officer, who joins us to share in our ongoing commitment to your care.