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Primary Care

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» Primary Care
a diagram of a bone with rheumatoid arthritis and the four stages of it

What Are the 4 Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis can progress in stages, starting with early joint inflammation and, in severe cases, leading to joint damage or loss of movement. Not everyone moves through all four stages, and early treatment can help slow or prevent long-term damage. If you have joint pain, swelling, stiffness, or symptoms that are getting worse, visiting one […]
primary care doctor taking care of an older adult

What Is Geriatric Care and Who Needs It?

Geriatric care is healthcare designed for older adults. It focuses on the full picture of aging, including chronic conditions, medications, mobility, memory, independence, safety, and quality of life. Unlike general care that may focus on one issue at a time, geriatric care looks at how different health needs connect. It can be especially helpful for […]
primary care doctor consulting two older adults

How Often Should Older Adults See a Primary Care Doctor?

The Standard Approach to Primary Care Visits For many older adults, primary care is often built around a yearly checkup or annual wellness visit. Medicare Part B covers a yearly “Wellness” visit once every 12 months for eligible patients, and this visit is meant to help create or update a prevention plan based on current […]
primary care doctor consulting an older adult couple about nutrition

What Is the Difference Between a Nutritionist and a Dietitian?

If you’ve been asking what is the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian, you’re not alone. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same and choosing the right one can make a big difference in your health outcomes. The short answer: Understanding this difference helps you choose the right support, […]

Can a Nutritionist Prescribe Medication?

If you’ve ever wondered, “can a nutritionist prescribe medication?”, you’re not alone. Many patients exploring nutrition support ask this question when deciding between different types of healthcare providers.  The short answer is no, but understanding if a nutritionist can prescribe medication requires a deeper look at roles, credentials, and how nutrition care fits into overall […]
a primary care doctor consulting two older adults about alzheimer and dementia

What Are the Differences Between Alzheimer and Dementia?

Many people use the terms Alzheimer and dementia interchangeably, which often leads to confusion. A common question patients and families ask is: what is the difference between Alzheimer and dementia? While they are closely related, they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference between dementia and Alzheimer can help you recognize symptoms earlier, seek […]
female primary care doctor advising an older adult about alzheumer's

How Long Do the 7 Stages of Alzheimer’s Last?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It doesn’t happen overnight, instead, symptoms develop gradually over several years. Understanding how long the 7 stages of Alzheimer’s last can help families prepare for the journey ahead. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what are the 7 stages of Alzheimer’s […]
primary care doctor helping older adult with back pain

Acupuncture for Back Pain

Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care, and relief. Nearly 8 in 10 people will experience it at some point in their lives. Whether caused by poor posture, heavy lifting, an old injury, or simply aging, chronic back pain can be both frustrating and debilitating. Acupuncture, an ancient […]

What Happens at Your First Visit with a New Primary Care Physician at Sage Health

Visiting a new primary care physician (PCP) for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Whether you’re new to the area, transitioning from another doctor, or simply seeking to establish a long-term healthcare relationship, your first visit with a new PCP is an important step toward taking control of your health. At Sage […]

Internal Medicine vs Family Medicine: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to choosing a primary care doctor, many people wonder about the difference between internal medicine and family medicine. Both specialties focus on providing comprehensive care, but they have key distinctions in the type of patients they treat and the conditions they manage. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision […]