Green Bay Reporter

Men often encounter obstacles that prevent them from seeking timely healthcare. Dr. Matthew Andreoli, a physician at Emplify Health by Bellin Family Medicine, observes that "we are still seeing men coming in who have experienced symptoms for weeks, if not months." He attributes this to a mentality of pushing through pain, which can result in delayed visits or reliance on urgent care and emergency departments instead of scheduled appointments with primary care providers.

Frequent visits to urgent care or emergency departments can be expensive. Establishing a primary care provider (PCP) and maintaining regular appointments can help save money while promoting proactive health management. Dr. Andreoli advises that "the best time to establish a primary care provider is before something happens," noting the importance of having a trusted provider for unforeseen health issues like sprains, colds, or high blood pressure.

Regular PCP visits can help men identify age-specific risks and undergo appropriate screenings. Conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and prostate problems can be prevented and managed with the assistance of a PCP. Additionally, Dr. Andreoli highlights that "your primary care provider can also be a useful resource and guide to assist with mental health issues, such as depression."

Men are encouraged to prioritize their health by establishing and maintaining relationships with primary care providers for better physical and mental well-being over time.