Vernon Hills Y Brings Prevention To You - The Doctor Is In

If you’re due for an annual checkup but are concerned about the cost, you might want to take advantage of a free preventive health exam offered at both Lake County Family YMCAs.

“Knowing your risks and taking steps to prevent the development of a chronic illness is perhaps the most important thing that you can do for your long-term health,” said Scott Morcott, M.D., chief medical officer of PathFinder Health, a national preventive health provider. “The YMCA and preventive health and wellness have everything in common.”

Beginning in March, Central Lake YMCA in Vernon Hills and Northern Lake YMCA in Waukegan will offer on-site preventive health physical exams and Medicare annual wellness visits to the community at large. These exams are available at no cost to those with Medicare or commercial insurance. There is no copay or deductible.  Medicare participants need to have been in Medicare at least one year and have not had an annual wellness visit within the last 12 months.

“Preventable chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, obesity and cancer are the most important health problems that Americans face today,” Morcott added. “Most of us do not realize the impact that healthy lifestyles, including regular physical activity, healthy nutrition, stress and weight management, have on reducing risks for chronic disease and even in the treatment of these diseases once they occur. Despite this news, only about one of every five adults takes the time to obtain a preventive health physical exam and review his or her risks every year while more than 75 percent of us will die as a result of complications from chronic disease.”

Lake County Family YMCA President & CEO Lynda Chott said, “Healthy living is one of our three areas of focus, especially with the increased epidemic of both obesity and diabetes in America. The YMCA, on a national level, is a leader in addressing these issues, and we are excited to make a difference in our community by providing preventive health services at our Ys.”

Both exams are ideal for people who are interested in learning more about their personal health risks and have questions about their wellness that they would like to discuss with a doctor. Participants receive a personal report that outlines their current health and risk status and formulates a personal prevention plan. The exams also are ideal for people who don’t have a doctor or haven’t seen one in years.

“We encourage everyone to obtain their own, personal physician but recognize that, in today’s fast-paced healthcare industry, some offices are simply not able to offer comprehensive preventive health services or the Medicare annual wellness visit,” Morcott said.

All health information and results are kept strictly confidential between you and your healthcare provider. Exams begin Thursday, March 8, from 7 to 10:30 a.m. at Central Lake YMCA, 700 Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills. To schedule an appointment visit http://tiny.cc/pathfinderappt.

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The Lake County Family YMCA is a cause-driven nonprofit that strengthens the community through programs and services that foster youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.  Chartered in 1912 as a 501 (C) 3 nonprofit, our association is comprised of the Central Lake YMCA in Vernon Hills, Northern Lake YMCA in Waukegan and Early Head Start in Waukegan. To learn more, visit www.ymcalakecounty.org