# Dedication Health | Concierge Medicine Chicago > Innovative concierge medicine Dedicated to providing patient-first healthcare At Dedication Health, we eliminate the frustrations and constraints of a traditional patient-doctor relationship. Our premium services and expert physicians tailor your --- ## Practice Information, Physicians, and Services - [Concierge Cardiology](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-cardiology/): Concierge Cardiology We provide comprehensive cardiology with advanced diagnostics, individualized treatment, and ongoing management of cardiovascular risk and disease. Personalized,... - [Dr. Michael J Waligora](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-michael-j-waligora/): Dr. Michael J Waligora “Medicine is a blend of art and science. While I am fascinated by the science, which... - [Dr. Jason Robin, MD, FACC](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-jason-robin-md/) - [Jason Robin, MD, FACC](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-jason-robin-md): Dr. Jason Robin “My goal has always been to deliver the newest, most cutting edge therapies while having the patient-doctor... - [Dr. Jason Robin](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-jason-robin): Meet Dr. Jason Robin, 5× board-certified concierge cardiologist at Dedication Health Northfield. FACC, Director of Cardio-Oncology at City of Hope, team cardiologist for Northwestern Wildcats & Chicago Fire. - [Dr. Jana Mechurova](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-jana-mechurova): Dr. Jana Mechurova “At Dedication Health, I bring a unique approach to patient care. I prioritize the quality of care,... - [Medication Reconciliation](https://www.dedication-health.com/services/medication-reconciliation-2/): Medication Reconciliation Our Medication Reconciliation service is all about educating you and providing a safe and effective treatment experience. We... - [Concierge Medicine Chicago | Dedication Health](https://www.dedication-health.com/): Innovative concierge medicine Dedicated to providing patient-first healthcare At Dedication Health, we eliminate the frustrations and constraints of a traditional... - [Dr. Anat A. Lansky](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-anat-a-lansky/): Dr. Anat A. Lansky “Dedication Health shares the ideas that reflect my core values in providing patient-focused healthcare. Our commitment... - [Locations](https://www.dedication-health.com/locations): Locations Winnetka, Illinois 710 Oak St, Winnetka, IL 60093 Northfield, Illinois 330 W Frontage Road, Northfield, IL 60093 Interested in... - [Dedication Health Reviews](https://www.dedication-health.com/reviews): Dedication Health Reviews Patient Testimonials “The greatest satisfaction practicing medicine is having the privilege of taking care of patients both... - [Primary Care and Preventive Medicine](https://www.dedication-health.com/services/Primary-Care-Preventive-Medicine): Primary Care & Preventive Medicine We eliminate the obstacle to high-quality healthcare by offering personalized, individualized care built on a... - [Thank You](https://www.dedication-health.com/thank-you/): Thank you Thank you! We will be in touch shortly. If you are interested in joining Dedication Health or would... - [Forms](https://www.dedication-health.com/forms): Patient Forms Below are the Dedication Health medical forms. Please download and complete the necessary forms and bring them to... - [Media](https://www.dedication-health.com/media/): Media Dr. Anat A. Lansky: Your Partner in Health Chicago Magazine Chicago Concierge Practice, Dedication Health, Welcomes Dr. Anat Lansky... - [Patient Portal](https://www.dedication-health.com/portal): Patient Portal Introducing the athenahealth patient portal for Dedication Health members. We are pleased to offer our members an easy... - [Telemedicine Services](https://www.dedication-health.com/services/telemedicine): Telemedicine Telemedicine keeps you connected to your physician and allows you physician to treat you safely and effectively from your... - [Terms](https://www.dedication-health.com/terms/): Terms of Use The content on this website is made available by Dedication Health, LLC for informational purposes only. Transmission... - [Privacy](https://www.dedication-health.com/privacy/): Privacy Policy As a HIPAA covered entity, and with a mission to be the most trusted business service to medical... - [Contact Us](https://www.dedication-health.com/contact): Contact Us Talk to us, we are here to help. If you are interested in joining Dedication Health or would... - [Concierge Physicians Bios](https://www.dedication-health.com/physician-bio): The Concierge Physicians of Dedication Health A recent shift in the healthcare industry, including the transition to a single-payer universal... - [Dr. John E. Croghan](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-john-e-croghan): Dr. John E. Croghan Dr. John E. Croghan, MD, is the founder of Dedication Health and a triple board-certified physician... - [Dr. Philip H. Sheridan, Jr.](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-philip-h-sheridan): Dr. Philip H. Sheridan, Jr. “The greatest satisfaction practicing medicine is having the privilege of taking care of patients both... - [Dr. Santiago A. Candocia](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-santiago-a-candocia): Dr. Santiago A. Candocia “I am excited to be a part of a practice where I have more time to... - [Dr. Richard D. Stern](https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-richard-d-stern): Dr. Richard D. Stern “I believe that it is vital to establish and preserve a trusting physician-patient relationship. Our concierge... - [Blog](https://www.dedication-health.com/your-health) - [Concierge Medicine](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine/): Concierge Medical Services and Member Benefits Concierge Doctor – A New Relationship Eliminate the frustrations and constraints of a traditional... - [Services](https://www.dedication-health.com/services/): Concierge Medical Services and Member Benefits As a full-service concierge medical practice, we offer plans for both individuals and families... - [Radiology Services](https://www.dedication-health.com/services/radiology-services): Radiology Services Radiology services are an important step in diagnosis and treatment. At Dedication Health, our on-site Radiologic Technologists are... - [On-Site Lab](https://www.dedication-health.com/services/onsite-lab): On-Site COLA Certified Lab Accurate on-site lab services are an important segment in assessing your health. That’s why we provide... --- ## Health Articles and Patient Education - [What a Quick Heart Scan Can Reveal About Your Heart Risk and Cholesterol Treatment Options](https://www.dedication-health.com/what-a-quick-heart-scan-can-reveal-about-your-heart-risk-and-cholesterol-treatment-options/): Heart disease often develops quietly, without obvious symptoms in the early stages, which is why prevention and risk assessment are... - [North Shore Concierge Physicians Near Chicago: What to Expect at Dedication Health](https://www.dedication-health.com/north-shore-concierge-physicians-near-chicago-what-to-expect-at-dedication-health/): If you’re searching for a concierge doctor near me in Chicago’s North Shore, you are likely looking for three things:... - [Healthy Resolutions for 2026: Stay Healthy and Happy All Year Long](https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-resolutions-for-2026-stay-healthy-and-happy-all-year-long/): 4 Healthy Resolutions to Stay Healthy and Happy All Year Long No matter where you are in your health journey,... - [What Time Outdoors Can Do for Your Body and Mind](https://www.dedication-health.com/what-time-outdoors-can-do-for-your-body-and-mind/): Did you know that taking time to step outside each day can lead to lasting improvements in how you feel?... - [Healthy Food Swaps That Support Health and Longevity](https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-food-swaps-that-support-health-and-longevity/): Small changes in your everyday diet can lead to lasting improvements in your health. Choosing healthier options in place of... - [Protein and Healthy Aging: Are You Getting Enough Protein?](https://www.dedication-health.com/protein-and-healthy-aging-are-you-getting-enough-protein/): Most people think about protein in the context of working out or building muscle—but it plays a much bigger role... - [Daily Practice for Health and Happiness: Invest 30 Minutes into Movement](https://www.dedication-health.com/daily-practice-for-health-and-happiness-invest-30-minutes-into-movement/): A Daily Practice That Supports a Healthier, Happier Life Investing time in your health is one of the most valuable... - [Reduce Inflammation to Improve Health, Relieve Pain, and Prevent Disease](https://www.dedication-health.com/reduce-inflammation-to-improve-health-relieve-pain-and-prevent-disease/): Managing Inflammation for Better Health Inflammation is the body’s natural defense mechanism, helping to heal injuries and fight off infections.... - [A Healthy Morning Routine To Kickstart Your Day](https://www.dedication-health.com/a-healthy-morning-routine-to-kickstart-your-day/): The way you start your morning sets the tone for the rest of your day. A consistent, healthy morning routine... - [Gut Health: Simple Habits for a Strong, Healthy Gut](https://www.dedication-health.com/gut-health-simple-habits-for-a-strong-healthy-gut/): A healthy stomach and efficient digestion are essential for your overall well-being. The health of your gut plays a significant... - [Summer Superfoods: Seasonal Foods to Eat More of This Summer](https://www.dedication-health.com/summer-superfoods-seasonal-foods-to-eat-more-of-this-summer/): Summer is the season of sunshine, warmth, and a bountiful harvest of fresh, vibrant foods. By incorporating seasonal foods into... - [Joint Health: Keep Your Joints Strong](https://www.dedication-health.com/joint-health-keep-your-joints-strong/): Taking proactive steps to maintain joint health is crucial for keeping your joints strong and resilient. By making small but... - [Maintaining Healthy Lungs](https://www.dedication-health.com/maintaining-healthy-lungs/): Protect Your Lungs, Protect Your Health Maintaining healthy lungs is fundamental for our overall well-being. Responsible for delivering oxygen to... - [Healthy Hobbies: 5 Types of Hobbies Everyone Should Have For Wellness](https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-hobbies-5-types-of-hobbies-everyone-should-have-for-wellness/): In the pursuit of a well-rounded and vibrant lifestyle, hobbies are more than just leisure activities—they are vital components of... - [Fortifying Your Immune System for Better Health](https://www.dedication-health.com/fortifying-your-immune-system-for-better-health/): Maintaining a strong immune system is vital for fighting off diseases, recovering from infections, and promoting overall health. This complex... - [Healthy Eating Habits to Ward Off Heart Disease](https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-eating-habits-to-ward-off-heart-disease/): Heart disease, the nation’s leading cause of death, is a significant health concern that is often preventable. Lifestyle choices play... - [Drinking Water for Improved Health and Vitality](https://www.dedication-health.com/drinking-water-for-improved-health-and-vitality/): Water is the elixir of life. It’s no exaggeration to say that water is as vital to our existence as... - [Heart Health Tips for American Heart Month](https://www.dedication-health.com/health-heart-tips-for-american-heart-month/): February might be well-known as the month of love, but it is considered American Heart Month as well. It is... - [Longevity: Healthy Habits That Have The Potential To Add Years To Your Life](https://www.dedication-health.com/longevity-healthy-habits-that-have-the-potential-to-add-years-to-your-life/): In the pursuit of a happier and longer life, there is no better time than now to improve longevity by... - [Understanding and Controlling Inflammation: A Key to Preventing Chronic Diseases](https://www.dedication-health.com/understanding-and-controlling-inflammation-a-key-to-preventing-chronic-diseases/): Understanding and Controlling Inflammation: A Key to Preventing Chronic Diseases Inflammation is a biological process that has both positive and... - [Fall Superfoods: Best Foods To Add To Your Plate This Season](https://www.dedication-health.com/fall-superfoods-best-foods-to-add-to-your-plate-this-season/): In autumn, nature presents us with a cornucopia of foods that are brimming with vitamins, minerals, and health-boosting compounds. When... - [Cold and Flu Season: Stay Healthy All Season](https://www.dedication-health.com/cold-and-flu-season-stay-healthy-all-season/): Our immune system operates tirelessly year-round to keep us healthy. As we enter the cold and flu season, it’s essential... - [Preserving Cognitive Health Through Lifelong Learning](https://www.dedication-health.com/preserving-cognitive-health-through-lifelong-learning/): Just as our bodies require regular exercise to keep us healthy, our brains need regular stimulation to stay sharp. Research... - [Exercise Your Way to a Better Life: The Power of Movement](https://www.dedication-health.com/exercise-your-way-to-a-better-life-the-power-of-movement/): Regular exercise is fundamental for disease prevention, and its benefits for the mind and body can truly not be overstated.... - [Cholesterol Levels: Proactively Prevent or Manage High Cholesterol](https://www.dedication-health.com/cholesterol-levels-proactively-prevent-or-manage-high-cholesterol/): Keep Your Cholesterol in Check Have you had your cholesterol checked recently? It’s a crucial step in maintaining your cardiovascular... - [Chronic Inflammation: Combatting Inflammation with a Healthier Lifestyle](https://www.dedication-health.com/chronic-inflammation-combatting-inflammation-with-a-healthier-lifestyle/): The saying “too much of a good thing” is especially true when it comes to inflammation. While acute inflammation helps... - [A Healthy Daily Routine - Make Time For Health and Happiness](https://www.dedication-health.com/a-healthy-daily-routine-make-time-for-health-and-happiness/): Taking care of ourselves is so important, yet can easily slip through the cracks when life gets busy. Dedicating time... - [Healthy Herbs & Spices For Flavorful, Nutritious Cooking](https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-herbs-spices-for-flavorful-nutritious-cooking/): Herbs and spices have been used for centuries to enhance the flavors of foods, add enticing aromas, and provide various... - [Heart Disease: The Power of Prevention](https://www.dedication-health.com/heart-disease-the-power-of-prevention/): February is American Heart Health Month, a time to bring attention to the importance of heart health and the steps... - [Healthy New Year’s Resolutions: 4 Surefire Ways To Make Them Stick in 2023](https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-new-years-resolutions-2022): It’s that time of the year again. Amidst the shopping and the festivities, there are New Year’s resolutions gaining resolve... - [Best Superfoods to Promote Heart Health](https://www.dedication-health.com/best-superfoods-to-promote-heart-health/): Eating for heart health is as much about what you do eat as it is about limiting certain foods and... - [5 Essential Traits to Look for in a Primary Doctor](https://www.dedication-health.com/5-essential-traits-to-look-for-in-a-primary-doctor/): Choosing a primary care physician is one of the most important decisions you will make for your health. If you... - [Cognitive Health: How to Maintain a Healthy Mind as You Age](https://www.dedication-health.com/cognitive-health-how-to-maintain-a-healthy-mind-as-you-age/): How to Maintain Cognitive Health as You Age Aging inevitably brings many changes, both physically and mentally. While it’s normal... - [Double Trouble: Flu Season & COVID-19](https://www.dedication-health.com/double-trouble-flu-season-covid-19/): With the double threat of flu and COVID-19 in the air, vaccines are more important than ever. The best way... - [Afternoon Slump Got You Down? Here's How to Stay Energized Throughout the Day](https://www.dedication-health.com/afternoon-slump-got-you-down-heres-how-to-stay-energized-throughout-the-day/): When the afternoon rolls around, and you start to feel your energy dropping, there are many things you can do... - [Boost Heart Health: 3 Things You Can Do to Protect Your Heart](https://www.dedication-health.com/boost-heart-health-3-things-you-can-do-to-protect-your-heart/): While there are many risk factors for heart disease, there are also many things you can do to help prevent... - [New Updates from Dedication Health](https://www.dedication-health.com/new-updates-from-dedication-health/): Exciting Updates from Dedication Health Now Offering Galleri™ Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test Today, the majority of cancers are diagnosed too... - [Good Sleep is Essential for Good Health](https://www.dedication-health.com/good-sleep-is-essential-for-good-health/): Sleep is a vital, often neglected, component of every person’s overall health and well-being. Most adults need at least 7... - [Geriatrician: Why You Should See a Geriatric Doctor](https://www.dedication-health.com/geriatrician-why-you-should-see-a-geriatric-doctor/): As people age, they have different medicals needs and requirements that should be treated by a physician who has extensive... - [How to Cope with Chronic Illness](https://www.dedication-health.com/how-to-cope-with-chronic-illness/): Chronic illness affects millions of people each year. When diagnosed with a chronic illness, you may feel depressed, angry, hopeless,... - [Why You Should See a Cardiologist](https://www.dedication-health.com/why-you-should-see-a-cardiologist/): A cardiologist is a specialized physician who specializes in heart disease. Typically, you would be referred to a cardiologist by... - [4 Easy Health Goals for 2022](https://www.dedication-health.com/4-easy-health-goals-for-2022/): There’s no better time than right now to adopt healthier habits that could help you feel better and live longer.... - [Diabetes: The Difference Between Type 1 and Type 2](https://www.dedication-health.com/diabetes-the-difference-between-type-1-and-type-2/): Diabetes has become an increasingly problematic diagnosis that many Americans are being faced with. In fact, over 34 million Americans... - [COVID-19 Vaccine and the Delta Variant: Are You Protected?](https://www.dedication-health.com/covid-19-vaccine-and-the-delta-variant-are-you-protected/): The most important thing you can do to protect yourself from COVID-19 is to get fully vaccinated. Vaccines are highly... - [Medical Concierge Services in Cook County, Illinois](https://www.dedication-health.com/medical-concierge-services-in-cook-county-illinois/): If you want more personalized care from your physician, concierge medicine is the perfect solution. Concierge medical practices, including here... - [Stress: What It Does to the Body](https://www.dedication-health.com/stress-what-it-does-to-the-body/): Stress is no stranger to any of us, it affects everyone. For example, the global pandemic has caused many people... - [Summer Health: Tips to Have a Happy, Healthy Summer!](https://www.dedication-health.com/summer-health-tips-to-have-a-happy-healthy-summer/): Summer is officially here! While the sun can feel great on your skin and provide necessary Vitamin D, too much... - [Diabetes Specialist: When Should I See an Endocrinologist for Diabetes?](https://www.dedication-health.com/diabetes-specialist-when-should-i-see-an-endocrinologist-for-diabetes/): Proper management of diabetes is vital for overall health. The problems can continue to escalate if a person doesn’t make... - [Nature for Health: How Spending Time Outdoors Can Impact Health and Happiness](https://www.dedication-health.com/nature-for-health-how-spending-time-outdoors-can-impact-health-and-happiness/): Spending time outdoors in nature may have a positive impact on our health and happiness. Whether you prefer the beach,... - [Kidney Health: Protect Yourself From Kidney Disease](https://www.dedication-health.com/kidney-health-protect-yourself-from-kidney-disease/): March is National Kidney Month which means we are going to talk about the impact these bean-shaped organs have in... - [COVID Vaccine Call Center: "SENIORS! CALL NOW FOR COVID VACCINE APPOINTMENT"](https://www.dedication-health.com/covid-vaccine-call-center-seniors-call-now-for-covid-vaccine-appointment/): CALL CENTER OPEN NOW AND LINES ARE AVAILABLE TO REGISTER SENIORS. 847-853-8231 847-716-3300 224-214-4630 847-835-4117 Residents of Glencoe, Kenilworth, Northfield,... - [Concierge Medicine Chicago](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-chicago/): Imagine being able to reach your primary care doctor any time you want. Someone who knows your entire medical history;... - [Illinois COVID-19 Vaccines for Seniors and Phase 1B+](https://www.dedication-health.com/illinois-covid-19-vaccines-for-seniors-and-phase-1b/): Vaccine Appointments Available to Schedule Beginning March 4th at 8:30 a. m. for Seniors and March 7th at 4 p.... - [4 Benefits of Concierge Medicine in 2021](https://www.dedication-health.com/4-benefits-of-concierge-medicine-in-2021/): We have seen an increase in concierge medicine for individuals since the epidemic started. The benefits that concierge medical practices... - [COVID-19 Vaccine Sign-Up Locations and Northshore COVID-19 Vaccine Update](https://www.dedication-health.com/covid-19-vaccine-sign-up-locations-and-northshore-covid-19-vaccine-update/): COVID VACCINE SIGN-UP LOCATIONS: City of Chicago Vaccination Sites https://getvaxchi. chicago. gov Jewel https://mhealthcheckin. com/covidappt Innovative care https://innovativecorona. com/ Oak... - [Heart Health Tips to Protect Your Heart](https://www.dedication-health.com/heart-health-tips-to-protect-your-heart/): February is American Heart Month. Here at Dedication Health, we want to bring you accurate information, support, and heart health... - [COVID-19 Vaccine in Chicago](https://www.dedication-health.com/covid-19-vaccine-in-chicago/): Wearing masks and social distancing help reduce your chance of being exposed to COVID-19 or spreading it to others, but... - [Mental Health Amid COVID-19 Pandemic](https://www.dedication-health.com/mental-health-amid-covid-19-pandemic/): It has been over a year since the novel coronavirus, otherwise known as COVID-19, has plagued the world around us.... - [Thyroid Awareness Month](https://www.dedication-health.com/thyroid-awareness-month/): January is Thyroid Awareness Month. Most wouldn’t believe how much trouble this little butterfly-shaped gland can cause if it is... - [Top 10 Healthy Habits for 2021](https://www.dedication-health.com/top-10-healthy-habits-for-2021/): The new year is finally here! For many, this is the time to begin thinking about how we would like... - [The Average Doctor Appointment Is Far Too Short](https://www.dedication-health.com/the-average-doctor-appointment-is-far-too-short/): Doctors become doctors to care for people, to listen to them, guide them toward wellness, diagnose and treat them when... - [Benefits of Electronic Health Records (EHR)](https://www.dedication-health.com/benefits-of-electronic-health-records/): In a world that revolves around digital information, doctors and other medical practitioners have begun to heavily rely on electronic... - [How to Be Active at Any Age](https://www.dedication-health.com/how-to-be-active-at-any-age/): How to Be Active at Any Age: Move More, Sit Less Americans should sit less and move more, even if... - [Membership Medicine is the Future](https://www.dedication-health.com/membership-medicine-is-the-future/): The desire for personalized and on-demand products and services has changed nearly every industry in recent years. It’s no surprise... - [Internists Are the Best Choice for Disease Prevention and Management in Adults](https://www.dedication-health.com/internists-disease-prevention-management): How Are Internists Different From Other Doctors? Internal medicine physicians are often referred to as internists or doctors of internal... - [3 Reasons Primary Care Physicians Switch to Concierge Medicine](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-primary-care-why-physicians-switch-to-concierge-medicine/): Concierge healthcare is continuing to grow in popularity all across the country. Concierge medicine, often referred to as retainer medicine,... - [Coronavirus Update: Everything We Know So Far](https://www.dedication-health.com/coronavirus-update/): Coronavirus Update The latest coronavirus update including current status and prevention measures from the CDC, WHO, and top physicians and... - [Private Practice: Why Join a Concierge Medicine Practice](https://www.dedication-health.com/private-practice-why-join-a-concierge-medicine-practice/): Concierge medicine is a healthcare model that was created in the mid-1990s with the idea of providing more personalized medical... - [Social Distancing and How to Stay Connected](https://www.dedication-health.com/social-distancing-and-how-to-stay-connected/): Research suggests that the rapid spread of COVID-19 is largely due to the movements of people who do not know... - [Coronavirus Prevention: What Works and What Doesn’t](https://www.dedication-health.com/coronavirus-prevention/): The best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Learn... - [Home Exercises Help You Stay Active and Healthy](https://www.dedication-health.com/home-exercises/): As people are advised to stay home and gyms are being closed to limit the spread of the coronavirus, people... - [Coronavirus Tips from Health Experts: Ultimate Guide to Protect Yourself](https://www.dedication-health.com/coronavirus-tips-covid-19/): Accurate information from reliable sources can be hard to find if you do not know where to look. Misinformation about... - [Benefits of Virtual Doctor Visits](https://www.dedication-health.com/virtual-doctor-visits/): The enormous advancement in videoconferencing technology over the last few years has made it possible for people to access this... - [When Should You See a Pulmonologist?](https://www.dedication-health.com/pulmonologist-near-me/): A Pulmonologist, or respiratory system doctor, takes care of patients with breathing problems. They are medical specialists with training in... - [Concierge Medicine: Benefits of On Demand Healthcare](https://www.dedication-health.com/on-demand-healthcare-concierge-medicine-benefits/): Concierge medicine practices are continually heightening their prominence today. There are many reasons for that, including the growing demand for... - [When Should You See a Rheumatologist?](https://www.dedication-health.com/rheumatology-when-should-you-see-a-rheumatologist/): Your health is one of the most crucial things that need care. It is, however, impossible to properly do that... - [What is a Concierge Doctor?](https://www.dedication-health.com/what-is-a-concierge-doctor/): Primary care is one of the most underrated fields of medicine, but with medicine concierge that is starting to change.... - [Concierge Internal Medicine](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-internal-medicine/): Concierge medicine provides health care that assures truly individualized medical care and the personal attention of a trusted physician. Concierge... - [What Is Boutique Medicine and Is It Right for You?](https://www.dedication-health.com/what-is-boutique-medicine-is-it-right-for-you/): The experience of visiting a doctor has changed a lot over the years, and not all for the better. Today,... - [Coumadin Clinic](https://www.dedication-health.com/coumadin-clinic/): As a patient taking anticoagulants, you should be aware of the potential for very serious side effects that can occur... - [What Makes Internal Medicine Doctors Different From Other Doctors?](https://www.dedication-health.com/what-makes-internal-medicine-doctors-different/): In the ever-changing world of healthcare and medicine, the demand for specialists is very high. A specialist is a certified,... - [Concierge Practice Near Me: Concierge Medicine in Cook County](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-practice-near-me-concierge-medicine-in-cook-county/): Concierge doctors limit the number of patients they see. As a result, they can provide enhanced access, longer appointments, and... - [Sustainable New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy 2020](https://www.dedication-health.com/sustainable-new-years-resolutions-for-a-healthy-2020/): New Year’s is an opportunity to recommit to your health and well-being: Eat better. Exercise regularly. Drink more water. Changing... - [Concierge Doctor in Chicago Coordinates Care for Patient with Rare Disease](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-doctor-in-chicago-coordinates-care-for-patient/): Dr. Santiago Candocia takes pride in being a concierge doctor in Chicago and advocate for his patients. By offering an... - [Health Concierge Membership Pros and Cons](https://www.dedication-health.com/health-concierge-membership-pros-cons/): Imagine being able to reach a primary care doctor any time you want. A personal doctor who knows your entire... - [Chicago Internal Medicine](https://www.dedication-health.com/chicago-internal-medicine/): Whether you’re simply seeking preventive medical care to protect your health, or you need ongoing care for a chronic condition,... - [Staying Active As You Age](https://www.dedication-health.com/staying-active-as-you-age-exercises-for-older-adults/): Studies have shown that physical activity is one of the biggest contributors to longevity, adding extra years to your life—even... - [6 Health Tips Doctors Want You to Know](https://www.dedication-health.com/6-health-tips-doctors-want-you-to-know/): If anyone knows how to get healthy and stay healthy, it’s your doctor. Whether your concern is weight loss, disease... - [4 Things Concierge Medicine Doctors Do Differently](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-doctors-do-4-things-differently/): Despite common frustrations with the primary care experience, many people don’t know an alternative exists in concierge medicine. With a... - [Geriatric and Primary Care Medical Concierge Services](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medical-services-geriatric-primary-care-specialty-care/): If you want more personalized care from your physician, concierge medicine is the perfect solution! As a concierge medical practice,... - [Concierge Family Medicine: 3 Invaluable Benefits of Concierge Medicine](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-family-medicine-3-invaluable-benefits-concierge-medicine/): Concierge medicine, or concierge family medicine, is a private form of healthcare in which physicians charge their patients an out-of-pocket... - [Bringing 5-Star Service to Imaging and Radiology](https://www.dedication-health.com/imaging-radiology-chicago/): Dedication Health’s radiology service is unlike any other medical imaging service in Chicago, and you’ll know it the minute you... - [How Do I Find Concierge Doctors Near Me?](https://www.dedication-health.com/how-do-i-find-concierge-doctors-near-me/): Searching For Concierge Doctors Near Me It’s not always easy to find reliable, easy-to-understand information about specific doctors or practices.... - [Medicine Reconciliation Is An Important Patient-Safety Tool](https://www.dedication-health.com/medicine-reconciliation/): Medication errors have been shown to be the most common type of errors affecting patient safety. In fact, preventable adverse... - [Primary Care Physician Near Me: Top Rated Primary Care Physicians in Chicago](https://www.dedication-health.com/primary-care-physician-near-me-chicago/): Find a Top Rated Primary Care Physician in Chicago Dedication Health is a concierge medicine practice in Chicago’s North Shore.... - [Why Choose Concierge Medicine?](https://www.dedication-health.com/why-concierge-medicine/): If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Why concierge medicine? ” the answer is different for everyone. It’s a very personal choice... - [Cook County Health Care: Concierge Medicine in Chicagoland](https://www.dedication-health.com/cook-county-health-care-concierge-medicine-chicagoland/): Dedication Health is Cook County’s premier concierge medicine practice. 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On top... - [Disease Prevention May Be Concierge Medicine’s Biggest Advantage](https://www.dedication-health.com/disease-prevention-concierge-medicine/): Concierge medicine is transforming the healthcare landscape of modern-day treatment with its emphasis on patient-focused healthcare, disease prevention, and personalized... - [Doctor on Demand: 24/7 Access to Your Doctor](https://www.dedication-health.com/doctor-on-demand/): At a time when in-and-out appointments are a financial necessity for most physicians, Dedication Health and a growing number concierge... - [Concierge Medicine is No Longer for the Wealthy](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-is-no-longer-for-the-wealthy/): If you read the headlines, it’s easy to be misled, but concierge medicine is no longer for the wealthy. Recently,... - [Specialist Care: What Type of Doctor Do You Need To See?](https://www.dedication-health.com/specialist-care-doctor-types/): Specialist Care: How Do I Find a Medical Specialist Near Me? A specialist is a doctor who, as the name... - [Personal Doctor: Seeing Same Doctor Every Time May Prolong Your Life](https://www.dedication-health.com/personal-doctor-prolong-life/): A new study appearing in BMJ Journals highlights the importance of finding a personal doctor you feel comfortable with and... - [Let Us Help You Reach Your New Health Resolutions](https://www.dedication-health.com/new-health-resolutions/): Sticking with your New Year’s health resolutions can be tough. If you’re like 77% of the population, according to Shelcy... - [Eat Healthy in 2019: How Meal Prep Can Help You Stay The Course](https://www.dedication-health.com/eat-healthy-2019-meal-prep/): If one of your new year’s resolutions is to eat healthy in 2019, that’s great! 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If current growth is... - [Geriatrics: When Should I Look for a Geriatrics Practice Near Me?](https://www.dedication-health.com/geriatrics/): Geriatrics is a field of medicine dedicated to helping people of a certain age. But what exactly is that age... - [Concierge Medicine and Insurance](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-and-insurance/): Concierge Medicine and Insurance: Here’s What You Need to Know When people first hear about concierge medical practices, they generally... - [Concierge Medicine Can Save You Money - Here's The Proof](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-can-save-you-money/): Believe It or Not, Concierge Medicine Can Save You Money Are you curious to know how concierge medicine can save... - [Concierge Medicine Reviews: What Patients Say About Concierge Healthcare](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-reviews/): Curious to know what patients say about concierge healthcare? We’ve gathered up quotes from our own patients’ concierge medicine reviews... - [Direct Primary Care: How is it Different from Concierge Medicine?](https://www.dedication-health.com/direct-primary-care-concierge-medicine/): As you explore your options, you’ll likely wonder “What is direct primary care? ” As one of several emerging types... - [Everyone Should Have A Concierge Physician - Here's Why](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-physician/): There’s some debate about whether concierge medicine is an ideal model or if it somehow harmful to medicine as a... - [4 Ways To Build a Trusting Doctor-Patient Relationship](https://www.dedication-health.com/trusting-doctor-patient-relationship/): You intrinsically know that your doctor-patient relationship impacts not only patient satisfaction but also the outcome of your treatment. 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It’s frustrating,... - [Concierge Medicine Myths: Top 5 Misconceptions](https://www.dedication-health.com/5-concierge-medicine-myths/): Top 5 Concierge Medicine Myths If you’re trying to find out information on concierge medical practices, you’re likely to find... - [5 Ways To Maintain Your Health As Well As You Maintain Your Car](https://www.dedication-health.com/5-ways-maintain-your-health-as-well-maintain-car/): 5 Ways To Maintain Your Health As Well As You Maintain Your Car A few years ago, Men’s Health discovered... - [Concierge Healthcare Services in Chicago](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-healthcare-services-chicago/): Concierge Healthcare Services in Chicago The desire for concierge healthcare services is growing rapidly. Investment in quality concierge healthcare is... - [How Does Concierge Medicine Work?](https://www.dedication-health.com/how-does-concierge-medicine-work/): How Does Concierge Medicine Work? 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The answer is different for... - [Concierge Medicine Practice: 5 Things to Look For](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-practice/): Concierge Medicine Practice: 5 Things to Look For If you’re considering a concierge medicine practice, 5 things to look for... - [Who Uses Concierge Medicine?](https://www.dedication-health.com/who-uses-concierge-medicine/): Who Uses Concierge Medicine? The real answer just might surprise you. When the model first emerged a couple decades ago,... - [4 Easy Steps to Become a Patient at a Concierge Medical Practice](https://www.dedication-health.com/a-concierge-medical-practice/): Due to the challenges associated with finding quality care, more people are trying to learn how to become a patient... - [Why Employers Should Consider Concierge Medicine for Employees](https://www.dedication-health.com/why-employers-should-consider-concierge-medicine-for-employees/): Why Employers Should Consider Concierge Medicine for Employees There are many reasons why employers should consider concierge medicine for employees.... - [Concierge Medicine vs Direct Primary Care](https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-vs-direct-primary-care/): Concierge Medicine vs Direct Primary Care Determining the differences in concierge medicine vs direct primary care can be challenging. After... - [Concierge Medicine is Changing Healthcare](https://www.dedication-health.com/how-concierge-medicine-is-changing-healthcare/): Concierge Medicine is Changing Healthcare The way medical treatment is sought, offered, and given has been rapidly changing across the... - [The Doctor Will See You ... Now](https://www.dedication-health.com/the-doctor-will-see-you-now/): The Doctor Will See You ... Now An exciting concept in modern healthcare has emerged over the last ten years,... --- # # Detailed Content ## Practice Information, Physicians, and Services - Published: 2026-01-13 - Modified: 2026-04-06 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-cardiology/ Concierge Cardiology We provide comprehensive cardiology with advanced diagnostics, individualized treatment, and ongoing management of cardiovascular risk and disease. Personalized, Comprehensive Cardiac Care Dedication Health provides comprehensive cardiology focused on prevention, early detection, and the management of cardiovascular disease. Care begins with a thorough cardiovascular evaluation based on each patient’s medical history, symptoms, and overall risk profile. Using state-of-the-art cardiac imaging and diagnostic tools, our cardiologists are able to assess heart health more clearly and develop individualized treatment plans. Our concierge cardiology program provides patients with direct access to their cardiologist, with timely visits often available the same or next day and unhurried appointments. This allows time to ask questions, discuss their treatment plan, and gain a clear understanding of their heart health, whether the goal is heart disease prevention or the ongoing management of an existing cardiovascular condition. Highly Esteemed, Board-Certified Cardiologists Dedication Health offers cardiology care from highly respected, board-certified cardiologists Dr. Jason Robin and Dr. Michael J Waligora. They are each recognized for their depth of experience and their ability to manage cardiovascular health across its full spectrum, from prevention and risk assessment to the diagnosis and treatment of complex heart disease. Our cardiologists have extensive experience caring for patients with conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart rhythm disorders, hypertension, heart failure, and valvular disease. Within a concierge setting, their expertise is paired with the time, access, and direct communication needed to provide proactive and comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs, with a strong focus... --- - Published: 2025-11-26 - Modified: 2026-04-24 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-michael-j-waligora/ Dr. Michael J Waligora “Medicine is a blend of art and science. While I am fascinated by the science, which is constantly changing, it is the art of the relationships I value more, as they are the foundation of healing and wellness. ” - Michael J Waligora, MD, FACC Concierge Cardiologist – Dr. Waligora Dr. Michael J Waligora is a board-certified cardiologist at Dedication Health with more than 30 years of experience in cardiovascular medicine. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease, heart failure, hypertension, and complex heart rhythm disorders. Dr. Waligora continues a legacy of healthcare and healing spanning 3 generations. His grandfather, Daniel J Waligora, was a cardiologist as well, serving in the United States Army and achieving the rank of colonel. He was in charge of the field hospitals in the European theater during WWII. Following the war, he elected to retire from the military in order to continue his clinical medical practice, foregoing a promotion to general. His grandmother, Dolores Waligora, was an OB-GYN nurse. His father, Daniel P Waligora, retired at age 80 after a more than 50-year career practicing internal medicine. His mother, Margaret Anne “Peggy” Waligora, is a retired nurse who spent 30 years as a school nurse in the California public school system. Dr. Waligora attended Santa Clara University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a B. S. in biology. He was elected to the Phi Beta Kappa national honor society. He earned his medical degree from... --- - Published: 2025-02-23 - Modified: 2025-12-04 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-jason-robin-md Dr. Jason Robin "My goal has always been to deliver the newest, most cutting edge therapies while having the patient-doctor relationships of old. For me, every patient is family. " – Jason Robin, MD, FACC Concierge Cardiologist – Dr. Jason Robin Dr. Jason Robin is a lifelong Chicagoan who comes from a family of physicians. His grandfather, Dr. Sidney Robin, was a pediatrician on the north side from 1950-1993. His father, Dr. Erwin Robin, is an oncologist who practiced most of his career at Michael Reese and in the South Suburbs/Northwest Indiana before coming to the North Shore to practice along-side his son in 2018. Sidney’s brother, Dr. Leon Robin, was also a pediatrician and Erwin’s brother, Dr. Arnie Robin, has been a general surgeon in the North Suburbs for five decades. Dr. Robin attended Rush Medical College and graduated at the top of his class with highest honors in 2002 and is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. He then went on to do a three-year residency in Internal Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine where he subsequently went on to serve an additional fourth year as a Chief Medical Resident. After his Chief year, he completed a three-year Cardiology fellowship at Northwestern. Dr Robin has had an esteemed career in the North Shore of Chicago since 2009. He is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology, Echocardiography and Cardio-oncology. While at North Shore University Health System, Dr. Robin maintained his academic... --- > Meet Dr. Jason Robin, 5× board-certified concierge cardiologist at Dedication Health Northfield. FACC, Director of Cardio-Oncology at City of Hope, team cardiologist for Northwestern Wildcats & Chicago Fire. - Published: 2025-02-05 - Modified: 2026-04-24 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-jason-robin Dr. Jason Robin "Our concierge model at Dedication Health supports my passion to create the most personalized health and wellness plans possible, while focusing on each patient's unique and individualized needs. My goal is to maximize our patients' ability to live their best lives. " – Jason Robin, MD, FACC Concierge Cardiologist – Dr. Jason Robin Dr. Jason Robin is a lifelong Chicagoan who comes from a family of physicians. His grandfather, Dr. Sidney Robin, was a pediatrician on the north side from 1950-1993. His father, Dr. Erwin Robin, is an oncologist who practiced most of his career at Michael Reese and in the South Suburbs/Northwest Indiana before coming to the North Shore to practice along-side his son in 2018. Sidney’s brother, Dr. Leon Robin, was also a pediatrician and Erwin’s brother, Dr. Arnie Robin, has been a general surgeon in the North Suburbs for five decades. Dr. Robin attended Rush Medical College and graduated at the top of his class with highest honors in 2002 and is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. He then went on to do a three-year residency in Internal Medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine where he subsequently went on to serve an additional fourth year as a Chief Medical Resident. After his Chief year, he completed a three-year Cardiology fellowship at Northwestern. Dr Robin has had an esteemed career in the North Shore of Chicago since 2009. He is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology,... --- - Published: 2024-06-06 - Modified: 2026-01-29 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-jana-mechurova Dr. Jana Mechurova “At Dedication Health, I bring a unique approach to patient care. I prioritize the quality of care, ensuring timely access and comprehensive services tailored to each patient's needs. Our friendly, upbeat, and attentive staff works to enhance patients' experience and takes it to the next level. Our practice provides the type of clinical care that most reflects the quality of attention I would like to give and receive. ” – Jana Mechurova, MD Concierge Doctor – Dr. MECHUROVA Dr. Jana Mechurova received her medical degree from Komenskeho University in Bratislava, Slovakia. She completed her residency in John H. Stroger Hospital in Chicago. She was an Assistant Program Director at Mt Sinai Hospital, teaching and supervising residents and providing primary care services to underserved patient populations. She is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and currently serves as a concierge physician at Dedication Health. Dr. Mechurova is trilingual, fluent in English, Slovak, and Czech, and speaks basic Spanish. AFFILIATE HOSPITALS NorthShore University Health System Glenbrook Hospital Evanston Hospital Skokie Hospital Highland Park EXPERTISE Internal Medicine Download Dr. Mechurova's full bio Question & Answer with Dr. Mechurova What qualities or benefits of a concierge medical practice have you found to be most enticing to prospective patients? One of the key benefits of our concierge medical practice is the promptness of our service. Weunderstand the value of your time and strive to address your needs without unnecessary delay, ensuring minimal waiting times. What is it about working with... --- - Published: 2023-09-12 - Modified: 2023-09-12 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/services/medication-reconciliation-2/ Medication Reconciliation Our Medication Reconciliation service is all about educating you and providing a safe and effective treatment experience. We strive to provide you with the clearest possible picture of your medication needs and optimize your treatment. By following high-quality standards for Medication Reconciliation, we maximize the therapeutic effects of your drugs, reduce the chance of adverse effects and provide you with an understanding of your treatments. Our Medication Reconciliation service is all about educating you and providing a safe and effective treatment experience. We strive to provide you with the clearest possible picture of your medication needs and optimize your treatment. By following high-quality standards for Medication Reconciliation, we maximize the therapeutic effects of your drugs, reduce the chance of adverse effects and provide you with an understanding of your treatments. Working to optimize your treatment At Dedication Health, our Medication Reconciliation service strives to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your medication needs and how your medicines interact with each other. Our team continuously works to maximize your treatments’ therapeutic effects, as well as identify any possible conflict your medication may cause. Our goal is to always be in communication with you about your medication and work with you to make any adjustments as needed. To do this, we follow the standards set forth by the American Medical Association and adhere to the seven steps of Medication Reconciliation. Seven steps of Medication Reconciliation:¹ Compile a comprehensive list of your medications, both past and present, and examine your... --- - Published: 2023-06-13 - Modified: 2026-04-22 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/ Innovative concierge medicine Dedicated to providing patient-first healthcare At Dedication Health, we eliminate the frustrations and constraints of a traditional patient-doctor relationship. Our premium services and expert physicians tailor your healthcare experience to deliver a comfortable, attentive and holistic medical partnership. See the benefits and services a concierge practice can provide 24/7 access to physician Ability to contact your physician at any time and schedule same-day appointments. Members can be assured that their healthcare issues will be addressed efficiently and effectively no matter where or when they occur. Ample time with your physician There are no rushed visits because your doctor will consult with you until all of your questions have been answered. Due to our reserved patient count, the doctor can spend an unrestricted amount of time addressing your medical needs. Supervision of your medications Medicine reconciliation is an important part of any treatment plan. In addition to providing you with the time necessary for a full prescription consultation, our medical staff will manage, monitor and expedite the refilling of your daily medications. Placement of your prescriptions In addition to a pharmacy stocked with common point-of-care medicines, our staff will place your prescription orders and expedite refills, saving you time and inconvenience. See all our member benefits & services Our concierge physicians Our doctors are board-certified physicians specializing in internal medicine, cardiology, geriatrics, rheumatology, women's health, critical care, and pulmonary medicine. John E. Croghan, MD Read full bio Philip H. Sheridan Jr. , MD Read full bio Jana Mechurova,... --- - Published: 2022-04-11 - Modified: 2024-08-28 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-anat-a-lansky/ Dr. Anat A. Lansky “Dedication Health shares the ideas that reflect my core values in providing patient-focused healthcare. Our commitment to personal service, comprehensive acute and preventative medicine, timely access, engaged advocacy, and knowing we genuinely care about each of our patients sets us apart and enables me to practice at a level of professional excellence that makes me feel proud. ” – Anat A. Lansky, M. D. Concierge Doctor – Dr. Lansky Dr. Anat Lansky received two Bachelor's degrees in Chemistry and Psychology at Indiana University. She then earned her medical degree at St. George's University School of Medicine. She completed her Internal medicine residency at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Lansky is board-certified in Internal Medicine and specializes in Women's Health. Download Dr. Lansky's full bio AFFILIATE HOSPITALSNorthwestern Lake Forest Hospital NorthShore University Health System Glenbrook Hospital Evanston Hospital Skokie Hospital Highland Park EXPERTISE Internal Medicine Women's Health Question & Answer with Dr. Lansky What led you to become a primary physician at a concierge medical practice? Concierge medicine allows me the ability to offer accessible, convenient, personalized care of the highest quality for my patients. I can provide exceptional medical care and the best patient service possible. What qualities or benefits of a concierge medical practice have you found to be most enticing to prospective patients? Our concierge medical practice promotes stronger patient relationships where we can communicate quickly and effectively. We provide professional advocacy with a customized approach and care plan to... --- - Published: 2021-10-17 - Modified: 2025-05-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/locations Locations Winnetka, Illinois 710 Oak St, Winnetka, IL 60093 Northfield, Illinois 330 W Frontage Road, Northfield, IL 60093 Interested in becoming a concierge medicine member? Contact us today and learn more about how we may set you on a path towards better health. Learn more about membership plans --- - Published: 2020-07-20 - Modified: 2023-03-01 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/reviews Dedication Health Reviews Patient Testimonials "The greatest satisfaction practicing medicine is having the privilege of taking care of patients both when well and especially in greater times of need when seriously ill. ” Dr. Philip H. Sheridan Jr. "I really enjoy guiding each patient’s well-being with an effective, personalized preventative health plan and, in the times when they may not be well, caring for them with a comprehensive course of treatment. ” Dr. John E. Croghan “I am excited to be a part of a practice where I have more time to get to know my patients and help them achieve their wellness goals. ” Dr. Santiago A. Candocia “I believe that it is vital to establish and preserve a trusting physician-patient relationship. Our concierge model enhances my ability to utilize both the art and science of medicine in the most personalized and complete fashion. ” Dr. Richard D. Stern “Dedication Health shares the ideas that reflect my core values in providing patient-focused healthcare. Our commitment to personal service, comprehensive acute and preventative medicine, timely access, engaged advocacy, and knowing we genuinely care about each of our patients sets us apart and enables me to practice at a level of professional excellence that makes me feel proud. ” Dr. Anat A. Lansky Previous Next "Dedication Health is an oasis of caring and expertise in today's barren healthcare landscape. In addition to the four excellent physicians, the support staff includes Allison, Susan, Jacqueline and Amelia. They will welcome you every time... --- - Published: 2020-06-27 - Modified: 2023-10-15 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/services/Primary-Care-Preventive-Medicine Primary Care & Preventive Medicine We eliminate the obstacle to high-quality healthcare by offering personalized, individualized care built on a direct physician-patient relationship. At Dedication Health, the doctor is always in. Patient-first primary care recaptures the old days of medicine when doctors knew their patients and medical histories, and catered to them rather than an insurance company. Our concierge medicine membership includes individualized primary and preventive care, same or next-day appointments, 24/7 access, and a suite of best-in-class benefits. Whether you have a chronic condition or you’re in perfect health, Dedication Health provides tailored wellness plans and coaching for nutrition, fitness, disease management, disease prevention, and more. Your concierge primary care physician will provide you with the one-on-one personal attention and consultation that you deserve. Early cancer detection saves lives. Today, the majority of cancers are diagnosed too late, when outcomes are poor. That’s why we’re excited to offer the Galleri™ multi-cancer early detection test* to our patients. This first-of-its-kind test detects more than 50 types of cancer through a simple blood draw. When cancer is detected in its early stages, more cancer treatment options may be available that can improve survival rates. Be in control of your health and call us today to make an appointment to learn more and determine if the test may be right for you. *The Galleri test is recommended for use in adults with an elevated risk for cancer, such as those aged 50 or older. It is intended to be used in addition... --- - Published: 2020-05-29 - Modified: 2025-10-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/thank-you/ Thank you Thank you! We will be in touch shortly. If you are interested in joining Dedication Health or would like more information, please contact our Practice Manager, Christine, at 847-986-6770. If you are a current Dedication Health member, please do not send questions or comments via the form below. Instead, call the office directly at 847-986-6770. Office HoursMonday-Friday 8 AM–5 PM Call Us(847) 986-6770 Email UsTalktoUs@Dedication-Health. com Our concierge physicians Our doctors are board-certified physicians specializing in internal medicine, geriatrics, rheumatology, women's health, critical care, cardiology, and pulmonary medicine. John E. Croghan, MD Read full bio Philip H. Sheridan Jr. , MD Read full bio Dr. Anat A. Lansky, MD Read full bio Jason Robin, MD, FACC Read full bio Jana Mechurova, MD Read full bio Santiago A. Candocia, MD Read full bio Richard D. Stern, MD Read full bio Our locations Our concierge medical offices are conveniently located in Winnetka and Northfield, Illinois. 710 Oak St, Winnetka, IL 60093 330 W Frontage Rd, Northfield, IL 60093 Our doctors take the time to get to know each patient and manage their care to meet their lifestyle and values. Your life is on your terms. We think healthcare should be the same way. --- - Published: 2020-05-10 - Modified: 2025-10-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/forms Patient Forms Below are the Dedication Health medical forms. Please download and complete the necessary forms and bring them to your next visit. Glucose Log Blood Pressure Log Download Form Download Form Medication Form Weight Log Download Form Download Form --- - Published: 2020-05-10 - Modified: 2023-12-28 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/media/ Media Dr. Anat A. Lansky: Your Partner in Health Chicago Magazine Chicago Concierge Practice, Dedication Health, Welcomes Dr. Anat Lansky to Team Digital Journal Read Full Article Read Full Article Telemedicine Services Now Offered at Chicago Concierge Medical Practice Fox34 Read Full Article Concierge Doctor in Chicago Coordinates Care for Patient with Rare Disease Future Science Today Read Full Article Dr. Sheridan Accepts Community Service Award Mobile Care Chicago Read Full Article Dedication Health: Where Patients Come First Sheridan Road Magazine Read Full Article Concierge Health Care Available Same-Day Concierge Medicine Today (CMT) Meet Dr. John Croghan of Dedication Health Voyage Chicago Read Full Article Read Full Article --- - Published: 2020-05-08 - Modified: 2026-02-02 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/portal Patient Portal Introducing the athenahealth patient portal for Dedication Health members. We are pleased to offer our members an easy and convenient way to access their health records online at any time with the athenahealth patient portal. Members may go online anytime, anywhere to securely view lab results, request appointments or easily update personal information. Sign in to athenahealth patient portal Note: You will be re-directed away from the Dedication Health website Go to Existing Account Create a new account Connect with your care team by sending a secure message, anytime 24/7 Access your health information, test results and appointment details Conveniently request visits online whenever it’s best for you In just a few minutes, you can create an account and have all of this, whenever you need it Note: You will be re-directed away from the Dedication Health website Create Patient Portal Account --- - Published: 2020-05-08 - Modified: 2023-09-05 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/services/telemedicine Telemedicine Telemedicine keeps you connected to your physician and allows you physician to treat you safely and effectively from your home or office. With telemedicine visits, you can be evaluated virtually so there is no interruption in care of unnecessary risk of exposure. We meet you virtually, wherever you are We are here when you need us, in-person at the office and virtually wherever you are. Virtual appointments are a convenient care option offering you the flexibility to see your physician face-to-face, through a private and secure video call. All-Inclusive Telemedicine Benefits: 24/7 Access to Physician24/7 telephone, text and email access to your physician ConvenienceSame-day appointments with ample time with your physician and concierge house visits for patients that are too sick to come in Specialist SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments with referred specialists Virtual Doctor VisitsTelemedicine appointments offer you the flexibility to see your physician through a private and secure video call Prescription RefillsOn-site staff will place your prescription orders and expedite refills Hospital SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments for tests that need to take place at a hospital All-Inclusive Telemedicine Benefits: 24/7 Access to Physician24/7 telephone, text and email access to your physician Virtual Doctor VisitsTelemedicine appointments offer you the flexibility to see your physician through a private and secure video call ConvenienceSame-day appointments with ample time with your physician and concierge house visits for patients that are too sick to come in Prescription RefillsOn-site staff will place your prescription orders and expedite refills Specialist SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments with referred specialists Hospital... --- - Published: 2020-05-07 - Modified: 2020-05-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/terms/ Terms of Use The content on this website is made available by Dedication Health, LLC for informational purposes only. Transmission and receipt of information contained on this website does not constitute a patient-physician relationship. Transmission of e-mail requesting information does not constitute a patient-physician relationship. When communicating with Dedication Health, LLC via e-mail do not send any confidential information or facts related to your medical problems, questions or inquiries. Submissions Except as otherwise provided in our Privacy Policy and except as otherwise covered under the Terms of Service, please note that any material, information, ideas, concepts, know-how, techniques, or other communication you transmit to us by any means, (other than personal health information submitted by you to us, which shall be governed by the Terms of Service) will be deemed non-confidential and non-proprietary. We will have no obligations with respect to User Submissions. By making any User Submissions available through the Site, you hereby grant us a non-exclusive, transferable, sublicensable, worldwide, royalty-free license to use, copy, disclose, distribute, incorporate, modify, publicly display, publicly perform and create derivative works based upon your User Submissions and all data, images, sounds, text, and other things embodied therein only in connection with operating and providing the Site to you. You are solely responsible for all User Submissions. You represent and warrant that you own all your User Submissions or you have all rights that are necessary to grant us the license rights in your User Submissions under these Website Terms of Use. You also... --- - Published: 2020-05-07 - Modified: 2020-05-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/privacy/ Privacy Policy As a HIPAA covered entity, and with a mission to be the most trusted business service to medical practices, Dedication Health, LLC takes the security and privacy of health information very seriously. Our security and privacy related policies and protections are extensive and complex, and are fully outlined in our Dedication Health, LLC Statement of Security Standards. Our cloud-based model for delivering health care solutions and services addresses information security as a priority, and focuses on protecting the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data for customers. Dedication Health, LLC explicitly undertakes the obligation to maintain an effective Compliance Program consistent with the relevant guidelines published by the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services. We maintain this Program with all of the elements listed by the OIG, including, among other things: a full-time Compliance Officer (Chief Compliance Officer); an active Compliance Committee with overall responsibility for the Program; written compliance plan; written policies and procedures designed to address areas and activities of risk within the company; continuing education of employees in compliance issues conducted by the Compliance Department on a company-wide basis; and special manager level training and department-wide training in key operational areas, evaluation of compliance risks and review of company activities for compliance, a reporting system, active investigation of compliance issues, and remediation/appropriate discipline with respect to compliance failures. --- - Published: 2020-04-10 - Modified: 2025-04-17 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/contact Contact Us Talk to us, we are here to help. If you are interested in joining Dedication Health or would like more information, please contact our Practice Manager, Christine, at 847-986-6770 or use the form below. If you are a current Dedication Health member, please do not send questions or comments via the form below. Instead, call the office directly at 847-986-6770. Our Locations Winnetka, Illinois 710 Oak St, Winnetka, IL 60093 Northfield, Illinois 330 W Frontage Road, Northfield IL 60093 Interested in becoming a concierge medicine member? Contact us today and learn more about how we may set you on a path towards better health. Learn more about membership plans --- - Published: 2020-04-09 - Modified: 2025-11-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/physician-bio The Concierge Physicians of Dedication Health A recent shift in the healthcare industry, including the transition to a single-payer universal model, allowed the concierge physicians of Dedication Health to realize their collective vision and open an innovative patient-first healthcare facility. By accepting only a limited number of patients, the board-certified concierge physicians at Dedication Health offer unrestricted, personalized one-on-one attention, as well as enhanced member services and benefits to all patients. Santiago A. Candocia, MD, FACP Dr. Santiago A. Candocia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biological Sciences from Northwestern University. Dr. Candocia studied at the University of Illinois College of Medicine and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Northwestern University Medical School. He served as Chief Resident in Medicine at Evanston Hospital and as a Clinical Instructor in Medicine at both Northwestern University Medical School and The University of Chicago. Dr. Candocia is one of the top-rated concierge physicians and board-certified internal medicine physicians at Dedication Health. Read Full Bio John E. Croghan, MD Dr. John E. Croghan earned his medical degree from Rush Medical College and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Loyola University Medical Center. He completed his first fellowship in Geriatric Medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and a second fellowship in Rheumatology at George Washington University Medical Center. Dr. Croghan is the Rheumatologist as well as one of the board-certified concierge physicians and founders of Dedication Health. Read Full Bio Anat A. Lansky, MD Dr. Anat Lansky received two... --- - Published: 2020-04-09 - Modified: 2026-04-24 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-john-e-croghan Dr. John E. Croghan Dr. John E. Croghan, MD, is the founder of Dedication Health and a triple board-certified physician in Internal Medicine, Rheumatology, and Geriatric Medicine. “The key to good health is directly attributable to an active lifestyle and healthy diet. We offer our members personalized care that consists of sensible, customized fitness and diet plans that maximize well-being. ” – John E. Croghan, MD Concierge Doctor – Dr. Croghan Triple Board CertifiedDr. John E. Croghan earned his medical degree from Rush Medical College and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Loyola University Medical Center. He completed his first fellowship in Geriatric Medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and a second fellowship in Rheumatology at George Washington University Medical Center. Dr. Croghan is triple board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology and Geriatric Medicine. Download Dr. Croghan’s full bio AFFILIATE HOSPITALS NorthShore University Health System Glenbrook Hospital Evanston Hospital Skokie Hospital Highland Park EXPERTISE Internal Medicine Rheumatology Geriatrics Question & Answer with Dr. Croghan What drove you to launch Dedication Health, a concierge medical practice? I started Dedication Health to offer innovative, personalized primary care medical service and convenience to my patients. The high-volume and impersonal nature of today’s medical system simply does not offer what each patient fully deserves. What qualities or benefits of a concierge medical practice might encourage a person to join? There are many enticing qualities of a concierge medical practice. A professional and caring staff that answers... --- - Published: 2020-04-09 - Modified: 2026-04-24 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-philip-h-sheridan Dr. Philip H. Sheridan, Jr. “The greatest satisfaction practicing medicine is having the privilege of taking care of patients both when well and especially in greater times of need when seriously ill. ” – Philip H. Sheridan Jr. , MD Concierge Doctor – Dr. Sheridan Dr. Philip H. Sheridan Jr. earned his medical degree from Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine where he also completed his residency in Internal Medicine. He completed an internship at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center and later, returned to Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine to complete a fellowship in Pulmonary and Respiratory Disease. Dr. Sheridan is board certified in Critical Care Medicine, Internal Medicine and Pulmonary Disease. Download Dr. Sheridan’s full bio AFFILIATE HOSPITALS NorthShore University Health System Glenbrook Hospital Evanston Hospital Skokie Hospital Highland Park EXPERTISE Internal Medicine Pulmonary Medicine Critical Care Question & Answer with Dr. Sheridan What led you to become a primary physician at Dedication Health? I became a concierge primary physician to help patients get better service and care that has become much more difficult to get because of the many changes in the healthcare delivery system. Unfortunately, the big hospital systems, the insurance companies, and the government bureaucrats have lost sight of what is important in the caring for patients, and that is the system should be there to serve the patients. Instead, for the most part the patients and doctors are now serving the system! ! Everyone deserves excellent healthcare. I try to treat my patients... --- - Published: 2020-04-09 - Modified: 2024-08-28 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-santiago-a-candocia Dr. Santiago A. Candocia “I am excited to be a part of a practice where I have more time to get to know my patients and help them achieve their wellness goals. ” – Santiago A. Candocia, MD, FACP Concierge Doctor – Dr. Candocia Dr. Santiago A. Candocia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biological Sciences from Northwestern University. Dr. Candocia studied at the University of Illinois College of Medicine and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Northwestern University Medical School. He served as Chief Resident in Medicine at Evanston Hospital and as a Clinical Instructor in Medicine at both Northwestern University Medical School and The University of Chicago. Dr. Candocia is board-certified in Internal Medicine. Download Dr. Candocia’s full bio AFFILIATE HOSPITALSNorthShore University Health SystemGlenbrook HospitalEvanston HospitalSkokie HospitalHighland ParkEXPERTISEInternal Medicine Question & Answer with Dr. Candocia What led you to become a primary physician at a concierge medical practice? Joining Dedication Health has allowed me to care for patients in the way that was traditionally practiced: one patient at a time with a focus on the whole patient over the course of their lifetime. In the past, I’ve tried to deliver concierge care to all my patients, but it was impossible to care for so many people and deliver truly personalized care – no matter how many hours per day I tried. What qualities or benefits of a concierge medical practice have you found to be most enticing to prospective patients? Immediate access to care by phone,... --- - Published: 2020-04-09 - Modified: 2026-04-24 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-richard-d-stern Dr. Richard D. Stern “I believe that it is vital to establish and preserve a trusting physician-patient relationship. Our concierge model enhances my ability to utilize both the art and science of medicine in the most personalized and complete fashion. ” – Richard D. Stern, MD Concierge Doctor – Dr. Stern Dr. Richard D. Stern earned a bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri and a degree in medicine from Wright State University. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Evanston/Glenbrook Hospitals, where he served as the Chief Medical Resident. Dr. Stern, who has been in private practice for the past 30 years, is a senior attending physician at NorthShore University Health Systems. Dr. Stern is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is a member of the American College of Physicians, the American Medical Association and the Chicago Medical Society. Download Dr. Stern’s full bio AFFILIATE HOSPITALS NorthShore University Health System Glenbrook Hospital Evanston Hospital Skokie Hospital Highland Park EXPERTISE Internal Medicine Question & Answer with Dr. Stern What led you to become a primary physician at a concierge medical practice? After 24 years in a traditional practice, I had become increasingly frustrated by the many factors that limited my ability to devote the desired time and energy to direct patient contact. What qualities or benefits of a concierge medical practice have you found to be most enticing to prospective patients? Optimal accessibility and responsiveness from their concierge physician, which is provided without... --- - Published: 2020-04-08 - Modified: 2023-08-29 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine/ Concierge Medical Services and Member Benefits Concierge Doctor – A New Relationship Eliminate the frustrations and constraints of a traditional patient-doctor relationship. Concierge Medicine – A Modern Solution Concierge medicine is a modern and innovative solution for ensuring optimal well-being. Concierge Health Care – Industry-Leading You and your family will receive industry-leading medical care and a suite of best-in-class benefits and services. Concierge Doctor – A New Relationship Eliminate the frustrations and constraints of a traditional patient-doctor relationship. Concierge Medicine – A Modern Solution Concierge medicine is a modern and innovative solution for ensuring optimal well-being. Concierge Health Care – Industry-Leading You and your family will receive industry-leading medical care and a suite of best-in-class benefits and services. All-Inclusive Member Benefits: 24/7 Access to Physician24/7 telephone, text and email access to your physician ConvenienceSame-day appointments with ample time with your physician and concierge house visits for patients that are too sick to come in Preventive CareAnnual physicals with screenings that are more comprehensive than what Medicare and insurers cover Virtual Doctor VisitsTelemedicine appointments offer you the flexibility to see your physician through a private and secure video call Specialist SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments with referred specialists Hospital SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments for tests that need to take place at a hospital All-Inclusive Member Benefits: 24/7 Access to Physician24/7 telephone, text and email access to your physician Virtual Doctor VisitsTelemedicine appointments offer you the flexibility to see your physician through a private and secure video call ConvenienceSame-day appointments with ample time with your... --- - Published: 2020-04-06 - Modified: 2026-01-13 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/services/ Concierge Medical Services and Member Benefits As a full-service concierge medical practice, we offer plans for both individuals and families of adults 18 years of age or older. And, rest assured, no matter which plan you select, whether for yourself or your family, all members receive the same personalized services and benefits. Appointments Primary healthcarefocused on you All-Inclusive Member Benefits: 24/7 Access to Physician24/7 telephone, text and email access to your physician ConvenienceSame-day appointments with ample time with your physician and concierge house visits for patients that are too sick to come in Preventive CareAnnual physicals with screenings that are more comprehensive than what Medicare and insurers cover Virtual Doctor VisitsTelemedicine appointments offer you the flexibility to see your physician through a private and secure video call Specialist SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments with referred specialists Hospital SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments for tests that need to take place at a hospital All-Inclusive Member Benefits: 24/7 Access to Physician24/7 telephone, text and email access to your physician Virtual Doctor VisitsTelemedicine appointments offer you the flexibility to see your physician through a private and secure video call ConvenienceSame-day appointments with ample time with your physician and concierge house visits for patients that are too sick to come in Specialist SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments with referred specialists Preventive CareAnnual physicals with screenings that are more comprehensive than what Medicare and insurers cover Hospital SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments for tests that need to take place at a hospital Staff Our on-site specialty medical staff On-Staff SpecialistAccess to on-staff specialists... --- - Published: 2020-04-06 - Modified: 2026-01-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/services/radiology-services Radiology Services Radiology services are an important step in diagnosis and treatment. At Dedication Health, our on-site Radiologic Technologists are board-certified in diagnostic radiology and CT scan with several years of experience performing diagnostic imaging procedures. Our technologists perform a wide range of exams in-office and offer same-day results for x-ray and computerized tomography (CT) scan. We also have off-site radiologists that will quickly generate your final medical results. Full-range radiologists Our radiology department provides American College of Radiology (ACR) accredited services that utilize the latest technology in x-ray and CT, delivering to you and your doctor medical reports, diagnosis and analysis. We offer on-site radiology that fully supports your needs, inside and out. Dedication Health is accredited by the ACR and is committed to providing the safest and best quality care possible. All-Inclusive Member Benefits: 24/7 Access to Physician24/7 telephone, text and email access to your physician Specialist SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments with referred specialists Prescription RefillsOn-site staff will place your prescription orders and expedite refills On-Site LabReceive fast and accurate results with our convenient on-site COLA certified lab Private SuitesUpon each visit, you will be cared for in a private and comfortable suite On-Site Radiology TechnicianAn on-site technician of Radiology performs same-day tests, while an off-site Radiologist generates final medical reports in a timely manner All-Inclusive Member Benefits: 24/7 Access to Physician24/7 telephone, text and email access to your physician On-Site LabReceive fast and accurate results with our convenient on-site COLA certified lab Specialist SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments with referred... --- - Published: 2020-04-06 - Modified: 2023-09-08 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/services/onsite-lab On-Site COLA Certified Lab Accurate on-site lab services are an important segment in assessing your health. That’s why we provide you with a safe and reliable lab — with the personal touch of our concierge service. Our on-site COLA certified lab technicians will help you with phlebotomy-related tests, including Coumadin® clinical needs. Professional service for your lab needs Included in your concierge medical membership is access to a convenient, state-of-the-art laboratory located at our Dedication Health office; the lab is designed to help your doctors assess your overall health and check for any potential medical issues. Bloodwork is performed by our staff and utilizes i-STAT handheld blood analyzers. With this technology, we have the capabilities to analyze your blood work in just a few easy steps and share your confidential results with you immediately. And, Dedication Health is an accredited COLA laboratory and is in compliance with CLIA, and is recognized by the Joint Commission. All-Inclusive Member Benefits: 24/7 Access to Physician24/7 telephone, text and email access to your physician Specialist SchedulingAssistance scheduling appointments with referred specialists Prescription RefillsOn-site staff will place your prescription orders and expedite refills ConvenienceSame-day appointments with ample time with your physician and concierge house visits for patients that are too sick to come in Private SuitesUpon each visit, you will be cared for in a private and comfortable suite On-Site Radiology TechnicianAn on-site technician of Radiology performs same-day tests, while an off-site Radiologist generates final medical reports in a timely manner All-Inclusive Member Benefits: 24/7... --- --- ## Health Articles and Patient Education - Published: 2026-04-06 - Modified: 2026-04-22 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/what-a-quick-heart-scan-can-reveal-about-your-heart-risk-and-cholesterol-treatment-options/ - Categories: Cardiology Heart disease often develops quietly, without obvious symptoms in the early stages, which is why prevention and risk assessment are so important. Risk is not determined by a single number. Age, family history, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, smoking history, and overall health can all play a role. In some cases, a coronary artery calcium scan can provide additional insight by helping detect calcified plaque in the arteries of the heart, giving doctors and patients more information when making decisions about prevention and treatment. Often called a CAC scan, this non-contrast CT scan measures calcium in the coronary arteries. The higher the calcium score, the more plaque is likely present and the greater the long-term risk of future cardiovascular events. Current cholesterol guidelines also recognize CAC as a useful tool when doctors and patients are still deciding whether a statin, a type of cholesterol-lowering medication, is needed. Who May Benefit From CAC Testing? In general, CAC scanning is most useful for people who are not clearly low risk or high risk based on the usual factors such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking history, and age. According to current ACC guidance, it may be especially helpful for men age 40 and older and women age 45 and older with borderline or intermediate 10-year cardiovascular risk if the result would help determine whether statin therapy should be started. For some patients, the result can make the next step clearer. A score of zero may suggest a lower near-term risk in the... --- - Published: 2026-03-01 - Modified: 2026-04-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/north-shore-concierge-physicians-near-chicago-what-to-expect-at-dedication-health/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine If you’re searching for a concierge doctor near me in Chicago’s North Shore, you are likely looking for three things: faster access to your physician, more time during visits, and care that feels coordinated instead of fragmented. Dedication Health provides all three. Dedication Health delivers a membership-based concierge medicine model built around 24/7 phone, text, and email access, same-day or next-day availability, and longer, unrushed appointments designed to remove the typical constraints of traditional primary care. Quick Summary Dedication Health is a North Shore concierge medical practice for adults 18+ with two locations in Winnetka and Northfield, Illinois. Dedication Health provides on-demand access, preventive care, telemedicine, medication reconciliation, on-site lab services, radiology, and concierge cardiology within a personalized membership model. Why Concierge Medicine Matters in Chicago’s North Shore Traditional primary care often means long wait times, short appointments, and delayed follow-ups. Dedication Health restores the physician-patient relationship by prioritizing time, responsiveness, and proactive care. Dedication Health has structured its practice around a limited patient panel, allowing physicians to focus on meaningful relationships rather than volume. For individuals managing complex health conditions or those wanting a more preventive approach, Dedication Health provides a modern solution centered on access, communication, and continuity. Learn more about Concierge Medicine Services What Dedication Health Membership Includes Dedication Health requires an annual membership fee. Dedication Health also accepts insurance plans and bills Medicare and other insurance directly for clinical services and tests performed both in and outside the office. See All Concierge Services and Member Benefits... --- - Published: 2026-01-26 - Modified: 2026-01-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-resolutions-for-2026-stay-healthy-and-happy-all-year-long/ - Categories: Health and Wellness 4 Healthy Resolutions to Stay Healthy and Happy All Year Long No matter where you are in your health journey, it’s always a good time to come back to the habits that help you feel your best. Whether you’re starting fresh or already have a routine that works for you, these simple healthy resolutions can help support your energy, strength, and long-term well-being throughout the year. Focus on Fueling Your Body Well Nourishing your body with balanced meals can have a meaningful impact on your energy, digestion, and overall health. Focus on simple combinations of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. A few good choices could be grilled chicken with vegetables, eggs with avocado and berries, or salmon with a side of leafy greens. These foods help keep blood sugar steady, support muscle strength, and leave you feeling more satisfied between meals. Keep Your Body Moving Regular movement is one of the most reliable ways to support your heart, joints, circulation, and overall strength. You don’t need an intense routine to see benefits. Daily walks, light strength training, stretching, or even staying physically engaged with errands and chores all contribute to better health. Movement also helps with balance, mobility, and maintaining independence as we age. The key is consistency, and choosing types of movement that feel doable for you. Take Care of Your Whole Self Health isn’t just about what you eat or how much you move. How you feel mentally and emotionally can influence everything from sleep and energy to... --- - Published: 2025-07-21 - Modified: 2025-08-01 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/what-time-outdoors-can-do-for-your-body-and-mind/ - Categories: Health and Wellness Did you know that taking time to step outside each day can lead to lasting improvements in how you feel? Spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve focus, support health, and enhance overall well-being. Whether it’s a walk through the neighborhood, time in the garden, or simply sitting in a quiet outdoor space, small moments outside can go a long way. With summer in full swing, this is a great time to be intentional about stepping outdoors more often. What Nature Can Do for Your Health and Well-being Nature Quiets the Stress Response Being in a natural environment can start to lower heart rate and blood pressure while easing the body’s “fight-or-flight” response. Within 20 to 30 minutes, cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone, may begin to decrease. Over time, consistent exposure to nature has been linked to lower baseline stress levels and may reduce the risk of stress-related conditions such as anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and more. Time Outdoors Naturally Boosts Mood Time in nature has been consistently linked to improvements in mood and emotional regulation. Exposure to natural light also supports healthy circadian rhythms and increases serotonin production, both of which contribute to mood stability. Even short periods spent outdoors, such as a walk through a park or time in a garden, can lead to greater calm, clearer thinking, and a more positive emotional state. Regular time in nature can offer meaningful mental health benefits. Reset Mental Fatigue with Time in Nature Spending time in... --- - Published: 2025-05-21 - Modified: 2025-06-06 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-food-swaps-that-support-health-and-longevity/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: eat healthy, health and wellness, health tips, healthy food swaps, healthy living, healthy swaps, simple food swaps, smart food swaps Small changes in your everyday diet can lead to lasting improvements in your health. Choosing healthier options in place of less nutritious ones—what we call simple food swaps—can support heart health, steady blood sugar, and overall well-being. These small adjustments are easy to make and can be especially helpful for managing or preventing conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. Here are a few practical swaps to help you eat well and feel your best: Choose Whole Grains Over Refined Grains Refined carbohydrates like white bread, white rice, and sugary cereals are quickly digested and can spike your blood sugar. Over time, frequent spikes and empty calories can impact both heart health and weight. Switching to whole grains adds fiber, which aids digestion, supports healthy cholesterol, and helps control blood sugar. Try whole-wheat bread instead of white, or swap rice for brown rice or quinoa to get more fiber and nutrients. Snack on Nuts Instead of Chips When you’re craving something crunchy, chips may be tempting—but they’re often high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and refined carbs. A better choice is a handful of unsalted nuts, which provide heart-healthy fats, fiber, and important nutrients. Unlike processed snacks, nuts can help support cardiovascular health and keep you feeling satisfied between meals. They’re a simple swap that offers long-term benefits. Choose Leaner Proteins More Often Red and processed meats can be higher in saturated fat, which may raise LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and increase heart disease risk when consumed in excess. Including... --- - Published: 2025-04-21 - Modified: 2025-06-06 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/protein-and-healthy-aging-are-you-getting-enough-protein/ - Categories: Health and Wellness Most people think about protein in the context of working out or building muscle—but it plays a much bigger role in your overall health, especially as you get older. Protein helps with everything from energy and immunity to maintaining strength and balance. As our bodies change with age, our protein needs often increase, even if our appetite or eating habits don’t. Making small, intentional adjustments to your daily meals can help protect your health and independence long term. Why Your Body Needs More As we get older, the body doesn’t process protein as efficiently as it once did. That means older adults typically need more protein—not less—to maintain the same muscle strength, recovery, and overall health. Thankfully, this natural part of aging can be managed effectively with balanced meals and regular exercise. By paying a bit more attention to your daily protein intake, you can help your body stay stronger and healthier longer. Maintaining Strength and Stability Muscle does more than help you move—it plays a key role in balance, stability, and preventing injuries. As we age, even simple tasks like climbing stairs or getting out of a chair can become harder if we’re losing muscle strength. Maintaining strong muscles helps reduce the risk of falls, supports bone health, and makes it easier to stay active and independent. And protein is what helps your body build and maintain that strength over time. Easy Ways to Add More Protein You can boost your protein intake with just a little planning. Try... --- - Published: 2025-01-17 - Modified: 2025-02-02 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/daily-practice-for-health-and-happiness-invest-30-minutes-into-movement/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: daily exercise, daily movement, daily practice, exercise, fitness, health, health advice, health tips, wellness A Daily Practice That Supports a Healthier, Happier Life Investing time in your health is one of the most valuable commitments you can make, and even small, consistent changes can help you feel your best every day. A simple yet impactful way to start is by incorporating 30 minutes of movement into your daily routine. You don’t have to do it all at once—break it into three 10-minute sessions or two 15-minute intervals to fit your schedule. Making movement a daily practice is an excellent way to invest in your health and happiness: Supports Heart Health Daily movement strengthens your heart, improves circulation, and helps lower blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly—easily achieved with 30 minutes, five days a week. Simple activities like brisk walking, cycling, or gardening can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke, keeping your heart strong and healthy. Improves Mental Well-Being Exercise is a powerful way to improve your mental well-being. Moving your body reduces stress, releases endorphins (your natural mood boosters), and helps manage anxiety and depression. Walking outdoors or cycling can double as a mental reset, giving you time to recharge while connecting with nature. 30 minutes a day can make you feel calmer, happier, and more balanced. Aids in Weight and Energy Management Daily movement is one of the most effective ways to maintain a healthy weight and steady energy levels. Physical activity burns calories, improves metabolism, and supports blood sugar regulation. Beyond managing... --- - Published: 2024-10-31 - Modified: 2024-10-31 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/reduce-inflammation-to-improve-health-relieve-pain-and-prevent-disease/ - Categories: Health and Wellness Managing Inflammation for Better Health Inflammation is the body’s natural defense mechanism, helping to heal injuries and fight off infections. When short-term, it’s beneficial. But sometimes, the body’s inflammatory response stays active longer than needed, even when there’s no injury or illness to address. This ongoing inflammation can be triggered by factors like stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, or a sedentary lifestyle. Over time, this excess inflammation can begin to harm healthy tissues, contributing to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and joint pain. The good news is that by adopting healthy lifestyle habits that can help keep inflammation in check, you can take steps to support your long-term health and well-being. Eat a Balanced, Anti-Inflammatory Diet What you eat plays a huge role in managing inflammation. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like leafy greens, berries, fatty fish (such as salmon), and olive oil. These foods are rich in antioxidants and omega-3s, which help combat inflammation. Avoid highly processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats, which can worsen inflammation and contribute to chronic health issues. Maintain a Healthy Weight Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, is a major contributor to inflammation. Fat tissue produces inflammatory chemicals that can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. Losing even a small amount of weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce inflammation levels and support your overall well-being. Get Consistent, Restorative Sleep Sleep is crucial for allowing your body to repair and recover, which... --- - Published: 2024-09-25 - Modified: 2024-10-04 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/a-healthy-morning-routine-to-kickstart-your-day/ - Categories: Health and Wellness The way you start your morning sets the tone for the rest of your day. A consistent, healthy morning routine helps you feel more energized, focused, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. Incorporating a few simple habits can have a lasting impact on your overall well-being. Hydrate as Soon as You Wake Up After hours of sleep, your body is dehydrated. Replenishing fluids first thing helps kickstart your metabolism, supports digestion, and gets your brain and body functioning at their best. Drinking water before your coffee or tea can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day. For a boost, add a squeeze of lemon or cucumber. Not only does it taste refreshing, but it can also help with digestion and provide a small dose of vitamin C to start your day. Incorporate Morning Movement Starting your day with movement wakes up your body and boosts energy levels. Even 5-10 minutes of light activity, like stretching or a brisk walk, can benefit both body and mind. If you have time for a full workout, even better! Morning exercise, whether it's a short run, strength training, or a quick set of bodyweight exercises, increases blood flow, supports cardiovascular health, and releases endorphins to boost your mood and set a positive tone for the rest of the day. Eat a Balanced Breakfast Fuel up with a balanced breakfast that maintains steady energy and prevents mid-morning crashes. Focus on a mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs.... --- - Published: 2024-08-30 - Modified: 2024-08-30 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/gut-health-simple-habits-for-a-strong-healthy-gut/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: digestive health, gut health, health, health tips, healthy gut, stomach health A healthy stomach and efficient digestion are essential for your overall well-being. The health of your gut plays a significant role in various aspects of your health, beyond just digestion. When your gut is out of balance, it can lead to issues such as inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and an increased risk of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), heart disease, and diabetes. By adopting simple and healthy habits into your daily routine, you can support your digestive system, improve your gut health, and contribute to your long-term health and well-being. Eat a Balanced Diet with Whole Foods Your stomach relies on a steady intake of nutrients to function well. Incorporating a variety of whole foods—such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins—can provide the fiber, vitamins, and minerals necessary to keep your digestive system healthy. Try to minimize processed foods, which can be harder for your stomach to digest. Increase Your Fiber Intake Fiber plays a crucial role in digestion by adding bulk to your stool and promoting regular bowel movements. Aim to include both soluble fiber (found in oats, beans, and fruits) and insoluble fiber (found in whole grains and vegetables) in your diet. Gradually increasing your fiber intake can help prevent bloating and discomfort. Stay Hydrated Water is essential for digestion, as it helps break down food and absorb nutrients more effectively. Staying hydrated also aids in the smooth passage of waste through your digestive tract, reducing the risk of constipation. Make it a habit to drink... --- - Published: 2024-07-19 - Modified: 2024-08-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/summer-superfoods-seasonal-foods-to-eat-more-of-this-summer/ - Categories: Health and Wellness Summer is the season of sunshine, warmth, and a bountiful harvest of fresh, vibrant foods. By incorporating seasonal foods into your diet, you not only enjoy fresher and more flavorful fruits and vegetables but also reap their full nutritional benefits. Here are six of the best seasonal fruits and vegetables to enjoy this summer: Berries Berries, including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. These nutrients help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and enhance cognitive function. Cucumbers Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories. They contain vitamins K and C, as well as antioxidants. Cucumbers can help keep you hydrated, support skin health, and aid digestion. Peppers Bell peppers, particularly the red, yellow, and orange varieties, are high in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. They support immune function, skin health, and vision. Tomatoes Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may lower the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. They also provide vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Watermelon Watermelon, with its high water content, is perfect for staying hydrated during the hot summer months. It is rich in vitamins A and C and contains powerful antioxidants like lycopene. Zucchini Zucchini is a versatile summer squash that provides vitamin C, manganese, and fiber. Zucchini can offer many health benefits, such as better digestion, weight loss, healthy blood sugar levels, healthy vision, and improved heart health. --- - Published: 2024-06-27 - Modified: 2024-08-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/joint-health-keep-your-joints-strong/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: health, health and wellness, healthy joints, healthy living, joint health, joints, wellness Taking proactive steps to maintain joint health is crucial for keeping your joints strong and resilient. By making small but impactful lifestyle changes, you can significantly improve your joint health and prevent accelerated degeneration and pain. Here are five simple but effective ways to help keep your joints flexible, allowing you to stay active and enjoy a higher quality of life for years to come: Maintain a Healthy Weight Excess body weight significantly stresses weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and back, accelerating natural wear and tear. Every pound of excess weight adds roughly four to six pounds of pressure on your knee joints. By keeping your weight within a healthy range, you can reduce this pressure, decrease the risk of joint damage, and enhance the longevity and functionality of your joints, allowing for greater mobility and less discomfort as you age. Engage in Regular Physical Activity Exercise is essential for maintaining joint health. Activities that focus on stretching and strengthening, such as Pilates or Tai Chi, improve flexibility and support the muscles around the joints, reducing their load. Incorporate low-impact cardiovascular exercises like swimming or cycling to keep your joints healthy without overstressing them. Consult your physician before starting or modifying your exercise routine, especially if you have an underlying health condition. Eat a Nutritious Diet A nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory foods, including those high in omega-3 fatty acids, can alleviate joint inflammation and pain. Incorporating foods such as fish, nuts, seeds, and a variety... --- - Published: 2024-05-24 - Modified: 2024-05-24 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/maintaining-healthy-lungs/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: healthy lungs, lung health, lungs, respiratory haelth Protect Your Lungs, Protect Your Health Maintaining healthy lungs is fundamental for our overall well-being. Responsible for delivering oxygen to every cell in our bodies, our lungs play a crucial role that remains essential throughout our lifetime. To support optimal lung function and efficiency, adopting certain healthy habits can truly make a difference. Here are some of the most impactful ways to help maintain your respiratory health: Build Stronger Lungs with Regular Exercise Physical exercise provides a vital workout for your lungs. Aerobic activities like walking, swimming, and cycling enhance lung capacity and efficiency, while strength training fortifies core and diaphragm muscles for deeper, more effective breathing. Over time, consistent exercise makes both your lungs and heart stronger and more efficient. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week to support lung health. Protect Your Lungs from Smoke and Pollutants Quitting smoking improves lung function and lowers the risk of lung cancer and COPD. As you age, your lungs become less effective at clearing pollutants, leading to tissue damage. You can reduce exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution by avoiding secondhand smoke, using air purifiers to improve indoor air quality, and avoiding high-VOC products like certain paints and cleaning supplies. On poor air quality days, stay indoors when possible to help protect your lungs. Maintain a Nutritious Diet and Healthy Weight A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats supports lung health by reducing inflammation and providing essential nutrients. Foods high in... --- - Published: 2024-04-24 - Modified: 2024-04-24 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-hobbies-5-types-of-hobbies-everyone-should-have-for-wellness/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: health and wellness, health tips, healthy habits, healthy hobbies, healthy hobby, healthy lifestyle In the pursuit of a well-rounded and vibrant lifestyle, hobbies are more than just leisure activities—they are vital components of our overall health and happiness. By diving into diverse healthy hobbies, we not only enrich our lives but also unlock profound health benefits. Whether it's boosting physical fitness, sharpening mental agility, cultivating social bonds, or nurturing emotional well-being, the right hobbies can transform our lives. They serve as powerful catalysts, driving significant improvements in our health and providing a deeper sense of fulfillment and joy. Here are five types of healthy hobbies that can contribute to a healthier, happier you: A Hobby That Keeps You Social Engaging in social hobbies can foster a sense of belonging and community, enhancing your emotional and psychological health for a more fulfilling life. Staying connected through social hobbies can greatly enhance your mental health and overall well-being. Engaging in activities such as book clubs, cooking classes, or team sports allows you to connect with others and provides an opportunity to share experiences, learn new skills, and build lasting friendships. A Hobby That Takes You Outdoors Engaging in outdoor hobbies can enhance your mood and offer key benefits like boosting vitamin D production and improving physical fitness. Outdoor hobbies like gardening, bird watching, fishing, or kayaking offer exposure to fresh air and nature, significantly benefiting both physical and mental health. Natural environments can reduce stress, enhance mood, and promote physical activity. Additionally, sunlight exposure during these activities aids in vitamin D production, crucial for bone... --- - Published: 2024-03-26 - Modified: 2024-03-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/fortifying-your-immune-system-for-better-health/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: boost immunity, immune health, immune system, immunity, strengthen immune system Maintaining a strong immune system is vital for fighting off diseases, recovering from infections, and promoting overall health. This complex defense mechanism is affected by various factors. Immunizations like the flu shot are essential for developing immunity against specific illnesses. Additionally, adopting positive lifestyle habits can greatly enhance the effectiveness of your immune system. There are numerous ways to bolster your immune system, from dietary choices to daily habits. Strengthening Your Immune System Nutrition & Immunity A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, provides your body with the essential vitamins and minerals it requires to function at its best. Nutrients like vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, and zinc, present in seeds and nuts, are known for their immune-boosting properties. Equally important is maintaining hydration, as water plays a crucial role in all bodily functions, including the immune system. The Role of Physical Activity Exercise not only improves cardiovascular health and lowers blood pressure but also stimulates the circulation of immune cells, making it easier for the immune system to fight off pathogens. Striving for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, through a combination of aerobic and strength training activities, can significantly benefit your immune function. Be sure to consult with your physician before making changes to your fitness routine. Restorative Sleep Adequate sleep is essential for immune health as well. While you sleep, your body repairs and regenerates its cells, including those of the immune system. Adults should strive for 7-9 hours of high-quality... --- - Published: 2024-03-14 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-eating-habits-to-ward-off-heart-disease/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: disease prevention, healthy eating, heart disease, heart disease diet, heart disease prevention, heart healthy, heart healthy diet, heart healthy eating Heart disease, the nation's leading cause of death, is a significant health concern that is often preventable. Lifestyle choices play a crucial role in warding off heart disease. Embracing healthier eating habits proactively can substantially lower or control risk factors of heart disease including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and being overweight. The foods we choose to eat can have a profound impact on our heart health and overall well-being. Transitioning to a heart-healthy diet involves more than just avoiding unhealthy foods; it's about making positive choices that nourish your body and protect your heart. Here are some tips to help you eat in a way that supports your heart and your health for the long haul: Healthy Eating Habits to Ward Off Heart Disease Diversify Your Plate with Colorful Produce Incorporate a wide variety of fruits and vegetables into your meals for vital nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Aim for a rainbow of colors to get the full spectrum of nutrients. Choose Whole Grains Swap out white bread, pasta, and rice for whole-grain alternatives like whole wheat, brown rice, oats, barley, and quinoa. Whole grains include more fiber and nutrients, which can help manage cholesterol levels and keep your heart healthy. Incorporate Healthy Fats Choose fats wisely from avocados, olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish such as salmon. These are high in beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3s, aiding heart health by lowering inflammation and cholesterol. Select Lean Protein Sources Prioritize lean proteins such as... --- - Published: 2024-03-01 - Modified: 2024-03-01 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/drinking-water-for-improved-health-and-vitality/ - Categories: Health and Wellness Water is the elixir of life. It's no exaggeration to say that water is as vital to our existence as the air we breathe. With the human body comprising about 60% water, it's a critical component in every cellular process. But beyond the basic necessity for survival, drinking water has numerous health benefits that contribute to overall well-being. Here, we explore the myriad ways in which staying hydrated by drinking enough water daily enhances health and vitality. The Essential Health Benefits of Drinking Water 1. Promotes Cardiovascular Health Water is essential for maintaining the balance of bodily fluids. These fluids assist in circulation, digestion, absorption, and even saliva production. Drinking water helps the heart pump blood more easily through the blood vessels to the muscles. Moreover, staying hydrated means your heart doesn't have to work as hard, which is crucial for long-term cardiovascular health. 2. Enhances Brain Function Dehydration can affect brain structure and function. It's also linked to the balance of mood and emotions. Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining concentration and memory function and can reduce the risk of stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that even mild dehydration can impair cognitive function, affecting concentration, alertness, and short-term memory. 3. Regulates Body Temperature Water has a remarkable capacity to regulate the body's temperature through sweating and respiration. When your body heats up, it perspires to dissipate excess heat and cool down. Without enough water, heat storage increases, and the individual is less able to tolerate heat strain. Having... --- - Published: 2024-02-02 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/health-heart-tips-for-american-heart-month/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: amercian heart month, amercian heart month 2020, health tips, healthy heart, healthy heart tips, heart health, heart health tips, heart month, heart month 2020 February might be well-known as the month of love, but it is considered American Heart Month as well. It is the perfect timing to learn what heart disease is and how you can prevent it. Heart disease is a serious and dangerous condition, which takes the lives of many people every day. As the leading cause of death for men and woman in the United States, heart disease can happen at any age. And high rates of blood pressure, obesity, and high blood cholesterol can put you at risk for getting heart disease earlier in your life. Generic factors play an essential role in the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases, but heart disease may be prevented if you take the steps to keep your heart healthy. So, it is time you show some love to yourself, and embrace the following easy heart health tips. American Heart Month Heart Health Tips Quit Smoking If you smoke, stopping is certainly the best thing you can ever do not just for the prevention of heart disease, but your overall health. Smoking is one of the main causes of cardiovascular disease. Smoking cigarettes remains one of the most preventable causes of heart disease. When you smoke, your arteries tighten, which makes your heart work harder. Smoking also can trigger an irregular heart rhythm and raise blood pressure, which are leading causes of stroke. This is why we are mentioning this at the top of this list of heart health tips. There is no doubt quitting... --- - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2024-01-25 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/longevity-healthy-habits-that-have-the-potential-to-add-years-to-your-life/ - Categories: Uncategorized In the pursuit of a happier and longer life, there is no better time than now to improve longevity by making positive changes to your lifestyle that not only have the potential to add years to your life but also life to your years. Lifestyle Changes to Improve Longevity Here are four of the most impactful changes you can make to your lifestyle that can improve health and longevity: Fitness for Life Certain types of exercise are particularly beneficial for longevity. Strength training maintains muscle mass and bone density, while balance exercises like tai chi reduce fall risks. Cardiovascular activities, such as brisk walking or cycling, are essential for heart health and metabolism. Aim for a mix of these exercises throughout the week. Nutrition and Hydration For a longer, healthier life, focus on a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, and high in fiber from beans, whole grains, and leafy greens. Eat more lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and plant-based options such as lentils and tofu over red and processed meats, Additionally, drink 8 cups of water daily to stay hydrated. Nurturing Your Mind Mental health plays a crucial role in longevity. Engage in brain-stimulating activities such as reading, exploring music, or learning new skills. Embrace mindfulness meditation and sensory relaxation to transform stress into peace. Staying social through community involvement or time with loved ones is also beneficial. Restorative Sleep Quality sleep is crucial for a longer, healthier life. Create a sleep-friendly environment... --- - Published: 2023-11-06 - Modified: 2023-12-28 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/understanding-and-controlling-inflammation-a-key-to-preventing-chronic-diseases/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: inflammation Understanding and Controlling Inflammation: A Key to Preventing Chronic Diseases Inflammation is a biological process that has both positive and negative impacts on our bodies. On the one hand, it is our immune system's first line of defense against infection and injury. On the other hand, chronic inflammation, which is long-term inflammation, can lead to a variety of health problems, including pain and chronic diseases. This article aims to delve into the intricacies of inflammation, its relationship with chronic diseases, and how to control or reduce inflammation through diet and lifestyle modifications. What is Inflammation? Inflammation is a complex biological response to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. The body initiates inflammation to protect itself, remove the damaged cells and tissues, and start the healing process. This acute or short-term inflammation is generally beneficial and essential for survival. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can start damaging healthy cells, tissues, and organs, leading to various health problems. This prolonged, persistent inflammation can lead to the onset of many chronic diseases. Inflammation and Chronic Diseases A growing body of scientific evidence suggests that chronic inflammation plays a central role in the pathogenesis of several chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Chronic inflammation can also cause chronic pain, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Cardiovascular disease: Inflammatory processes contribute to atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, which can eventually lead to heart attacks and strokes.... --- - Published: 2023-10-22 - Modified: 2023-10-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/fall-superfoods-best-foods-to-add-to-your-plate-this-season/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: fall superfoods In autumn, nature presents us with a cornucopia of foods that are brimming with vitamins, minerals, and health-boosting compounds. When you opt for seasonal choices, you do more than savor their peak taste; you unlock their full nutritional potential. Here are six of the best fall superfoods to eat this season: The Healthful Harvest: Fall Superfoods Apples Brimming with dietary fiber and vitamin C, apples promote gut health and bolster immunity. Their phytonutrients have been associated with reduced risks of several chronic diseases. Beets These earthy vegetables are a treasure of betalains - powerful antioxidants known to support detoxification and fight inflammation. Additionally, beets promote heart health and enhance blood circulation. Brussel Sprouts Brussels sprouts are abundant in vitamin C, vital for tissue repair and bolstering immune function. They also boast a rich supply of vitamin K, instrumental in promoting healthy blood clotting and fortifying bone health. Eggplants Eggplants are rich in fiber, aiding digestion, and contain the antioxidant nasunin, which has been linked to safeguarding brain cell membranes from damage and promoting cognitive health. Pumpkins A hallmark of the season, pumpkins are nutritional powerhouses. They are rich in Vitamin A and their generous fiber content aids in digestion, ensuring optimal gut health. Additionally, their seeds are a good source of zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. Sweet Potatoes These vibrant roots are abundant in beta-carotene, a dynamic antioxidant that also serves as a premier source of vitamin A. Such essential nutrients fortify your immune system, rejuvenate the skin, enhance vision,... --- - Published: 2023-10-01 - Modified: 2023-10-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/cold-and-flu-season-stay-healthy-all-season/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: cold and flu, cold and flu season, immune system Our immune system operates tirelessly year-round to keep us healthy. As we enter the cold and flu season, it's essential to prioritize bolstering your immune system to stay healthy. Your immune system acts as your body's natural defense against illnesses like the flu and colds. By taking proactive steps to boost your immunity, you can increase your chances of staying healthy. Here are five steps you can take to strengthen your immune system and prevent getting sick: Stay Healthy This Cold and Flu Season - Give Your Immune System a Boost Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods Your immune system thrives on a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Load up on colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and antioxidants, all of which play a vital role in immune function. Manage Stress Managing stress is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system. Make time for activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or other hobbies you enjoy. These activities not only help alleviate stress but also bolster your immune resilience to help you stay healthy during cold and flu season. Get Enough Sleep Quality sleep is vital for a strong immune system, so aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night. During deep sleep, your body repairs and regenerates, enhancing its ability to fend off infections during cold and flu season. Stay Hydrated Proper hydration is often overlooked but crucial for a strong immune system. Drink plenty... --- - Published: 2023-08-25 - Modified: 2023-08-25 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/preserving-cognitive-health-through-lifelong-learning/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: aging, aging health, brain health, chicago geriatric, chicago geriatric doctor, cognitive function, cognitive function doctor, cognitive health, concierge physician, geriatric care, health, lifelong learner, lifelong learning Just as our bodies require regular exercise to keep us healthy, our brains need regular stimulation to stay sharp. Research shows that keeping your brain stimulated through lifelong learning, or continuing to learn new things as you age, can help ward off cognitive impairment and reduce the risk of developing cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's and dementia. With endless opportunities to learn and stimulate your mind, make exercising your brain a priority and embrace the benefits of lifelong learning. Read Books Exploring new subjects through books is a great form of mental exercise. Reading has been known to significantly reduce stress, slow cognitive decline, and even improve intelligence over time. Take Classes Participating in online or group classes is an excellent way to learn a new language or skill. Learning helps form more neural pathways and can boost concentration, memory, and cognitive skills. Try New Hobbies Hobbies are creative outlets that keep your brain engaged and improve cognitive function. Studies show that learning a new hobby can slow decline and improve brain activity and memory as we age. Train Your Brain Engaging in a variety of different brain training activities such as chess, crosswords, Sudoku, and bridge can enhance cognitive function, including memory, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Strive To Be a Lifelong Learner Continuously challenging ourselves with new information and skills can help sharpen the mind and preserve cognitive function as we age. Whether it involves learning a new language, exploring new subjects through books, or taking classes, there... --- - Published: 2023-07-23 - Modified: 2023-07-27 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/exercise-your-way-to-a-better-life-the-power-of-movement/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: exercise, fitness Regular exercise is fundamental for disease prevention, and its benefits for the mind and body can truly not be overstated. Even simple activities like taking a brisk walk or doing some light weight lifting can have a profound impact on your well-being. Here are four ways that prioritizing exercise and making it a regular part of your routine can help you lead a healthier and happier life: Build a Strong and Agile Body Regular exercise is a powerful way to strengthen the body from head to toe. Various exercises can fortify the heart and help the cardiovascular system and lungs work efficiently. Additionally, exercise promotes bone density and joint health, boosts lung function, elevates endurance levels, and improves flexibility, strength, and agility. Keep Your Mind Sharp Fitness plays a vital role in keeping the mind sharp as we age. Exercise can boost cognitive function, preserve memory, and significantly reduce the risk of dementia. Embracing physical activity as part of your routine empowers you to stay mentally agile, focused, and better equipped to maintain a healthy mind throughout life's journey. Improve Happiness & Well-being Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators, to help relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve mood. Even a small amount of physical activity can leave you feeling happier, more relaxed, and less anxious. Boost Energy & Beat Fatigue Regular exercise is vital for combating fatigue by boosting the body's energy levels and helping improve endurance and vitality. Furthermore, exercise promotes better sleep... --- - Published: 2023-06-26 - Modified: 2023-07-27 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/cholesterol-levels-proactively-prevent-or-manage-high-cholesterol/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: cholesterol, cholesterol levels, concierge medicine, concierge physician, hdl, ldl, Triglycerides Keep Your Cholesterol in Check Have you had your cholesterol checked recently? It's a crucial step in maintaining your cardiovascular health. If left untreated, high levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) can silently damage your heart and lead to serious health issues like heart disease and stroke. Learning about cholesterol, having your cholesterol checked regularly, and adopting healthy habits can help you prevent or manage high cholesterol and significantly reduce your risk of heart disease. The Good, The Bad, and Triglycerides When it comes to your blood cholesterol levels, there are three primary indicators that your physician looks for: HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. To protect your heart, it is important to maintain a balance between low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels to protect your heart and blood vessels from disease. LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it can build up on the walls of your blood vessels, raising your risk for heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. HDL cholesterol is considered the "good" cholesterol because it helps rid your body of excess cholesterol so it’s less likely to end up in your arteries. Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood that your body uses for energy. Both triglyceride levels and cholesterol levels are important markers of health. The combination of high levels of triglycerides with high LDL cholesterol and/or low HDL cholesterol puts you at an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Getting Your Cholesterol Under Control Lowering your risk of... --- - Published: 2023-05-23 - Modified: 2023-05-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/chronic-inflammation-combatting-inflammation-with-a-healthier-lifestyle/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: Anti-Inflammatory Diet, chicago internal medicine, chronic inflammation, inflammatory, inflammatory foods, managing chronic inflammation, Reducing Chronic Inflammation The saying "too much of a good thing" is especially true when it comes to inflammation. While acute inflammation helps the body heal, when inflammation persists and becomes chronic, it can become a source of nagging aches and pains and inflict damage to tissues and organs. Left unaddressed, this can ultimately lead to the development of chronic inflammatory diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, dementia, arthritis, and diabetes. To protect your health, it's crucial to be aware of the potential dangers of chronic inflammation and take action to prevent or manage it. A healthy diet and other healthy lifestyle practices can make a big difference in keeping inflammation in check. Fight Inflammation with Food: An Anti-Inflammatory Diet Preventing or controlling chronic inflammation starts with your diet. Eating a healthy diet that includes colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation. Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats are also beneficial due to their high fiber content, which fosters a healthy gut microbiome. It's equally essential to limit inflammatory foods and drinks such as processed snacks, refined grains, sugary drinks, and red and processed meats. You should also avoid smoking and moderate your consumption of alcohol, sugar, and caffeine to prevent exacerbating inflammation. Reducing Chronic Inflammation with a Healthy Lifestyle A healthy lifestyle is pivotal in preventing managing chronic inflammation. Incorporating regular physical activity, even if it is taking a 20-minute walk, can lower the body's inflammatory response. Managing stress and getting enough quality sleep... --- - Published: 2023-04-23 - Modified: 2023-04-23 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/a-healthy-daily-routine-make-time-for-health-and-happiness/ - Categories: Health and Wellness, Healthcare Trends - Tags: daily routine, doctor recommended, happy and healthy, health, health and happiness, health and wellness, health tips, healthy daily routine, healthy habits, mental health, physical health, wellness, wellness tips Taking care of ourselves is so important, yet can easily slip through the cracks when life gets busy. Dedicating time each day for activities that bring you joy, promote well-being, and help nourish your body is essential for leading a healthy and happy life. Whether it’s going on a nature walk, exploring new hobbies, or cooking a nutritious meal –there are tons of small but meaningful changes you can make for a healthy daily routine that will have big positive impacts on both your physical and mental health and well-being. Simple but Profound Habits for a Healthier Daily Routine Stand Up Sitting for long periods increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Take frequent breaks to stand and walk around for at least 5 minutes every hour to reduce the risks of a sedentary lifestyle and improve your health. Move More Make time for physical activity throughout the day, like a walk after dinner or a quick morning workout. Even small amounts of activity can improve your health and longevity at any age. Stretch Often Taking a quick stretch break helps combat fatigue and restores energy. It increases joint range of motion, improves circulation and posture, and alleviates muscular tension throughout the body. Protect Your Vision Extended screen time can cause eye strain and damage. To prevent this, follow the 20-20-20 rule: take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look 20 feet away. This can help reduce eye strain and prevent long-term damage to your vision. Head... --- - Published: 2023-03-17 - Modified: 2023-03-17 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-herbs-spices-for-flavorful-nutritious-cooking/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: anti-inflammatory, antioxidants, cardiovascular health, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, digestive health, flavorful meals, garlic, ginger, health benefits, healthy herbs, immune support, metabolism boost, nutrition, nutrition awareness month, nutritious cooking, rosemary, spices, thyme, turmeric Herbs and spices have been used for centuries to enhance the flavors of foods, add enticing aromas, and provide various health benefits. These culinary treasures not only elevate the taste of our dishes but are also packed with potent antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and essential nutrients. Let's look at the health benefits of seven popular healthy herbs and spices – garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, rosemary, thyme, and cayenne pepper – and explore how you can incorporate them into your diet. Top 7 Healthy Herbs and Spices To Add To Your Dishes Garlic Garlic, a staple in many cuisines worldwide, is known for its pungent aroma and robust flavor. However, this versatile ingredient is not just a flavor enhancer but also a powerhouse of health benefits. Its main active compound, allicin, is responsible for many of its health-promoting properties, including: Cardiovascular health: Garlic has been shown to improve heart health by reducing blood pressure, lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) levels, and increasing good cholesterol (HDL) levels. Immune system support: Garlic's antioxidant and antimicrobial properties may help support the immune system by fighting off infections and reducing inflammation. Antioxidant: Garlic is rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Anti-inflammatory: Garlic contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with various chronic conditions. Add minced or chopped garlic to sautés, stir-fries, soups, stews, and marinades. You can also roast whole garlic cloves for a milder, sweeter flavor and spread them... --- - Published: 2023-02-18 - Modified: 2023-02-18 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/heart-disease-the-power-of-prevention/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: American Heart Health Month, American Heart Health Month 2023, health heart tips, healthy heart, heart disease prevention, heart health, improve heart health, prevent heart disease, tips for healthy heart February is American Heart Health Month, a time to bring attention to the importance of heart health and the steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. However, many risk factors for heart disease are preventable. Fortunately, there are many simple and healthy lifestyle changes that we can make to improve our heart health at any age. These changes can be small and easy to implement, yet they can significantly improve our health and lower our risk of heart disease and stroke. Lifestyle Changes for Heart Health and Heart Disease Prevention Below are five simple but important lifestyle changes you can start implementing today for improved heart health and well-being. 1. Exercise Regularly: Exercise is an excellent way to improve heart health. Regular physical activity can help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. 2. Eat a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet can help improve heart health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve overall heart health. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated and trans fats. 3. Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. It damages the blood vessels, reduces oxygen in the blood, and increases the risk of heart attack... --- - Published: 2022-12-28 - Modified: 2022-12-28 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-new-years-resolutions-2022 - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: 2022, 2022 eat health, 2022 healthy habits, 2022 new year, 2022 new year resolution, 2022 new year's resolutions, 2023 eat healthy, 2023 health, 2023 healthy resolutions, 2023 new year, 2023 new year resolutions, 2023 resolutions, happy new year, health new year, healthy new year, healthy new year habits, healthy new year resolutions, healthy new year's, healthy new year's resolutions, healthy new year's resolutions 2020, healthy new year's resolutions 2021 It’s that time of the year again. Amidst the shopping and the festivities, there are New Year’s resolutions gaining resolve somewhere in the back of your mind. While healthy New Year’s resolutions like losing weight, quitting smoking, and saving money are admirable, they are infamously tough to keep. Statistics show that only 9. 2 percent of people ever achieve their New Year's resolutions and break free from their bad habits. Why is it so difficult to make them stick? We try really hard but always end up giving them up, because of one reason or the other. The reasons behind the loss of good intentions are vast. Researchers have ID'd several culprits, such as setting a goal that's too vague or having unrealistic expectations. When setting your 2023 healthy new year’s resolutions, use these four surefire ways to make achievable goals that will last throughout the year. Set Small and Attainable Healthy New Year’s Resolutions The "go big or go home" mentality rarely works when it comes to healthy New Year’s resolutions. If you’ve never exercised before, it's unlikely you will suddenly start working out for an hour every single day. Start with small and attainable goals, such as going to the gym three days a week or taking a short daily walk. Once this becomes a habit, you can work up to larger goals. Write Down Exactly How You Plan To Achieve Your Resolutions Having a plan is essential for your success. Saying you want to "lose weight" or... --- - Published: 2022-11-28 - Modified: 2022-11-29 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/best-superfoods-to-promote-heart-health/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: best foods for heart, best superfoods, color diet, eat color, heart health, heart health food, heart health superfoods, hearty foods, rainbow diet, super foods, superfoods Eating for heart health is as much about what you do eat as it is about limiting certain foods and ingredients. A healthy meal plan full of fresh and colorful fruits and vegetables and heart-healthy proteins can help lower your risk of many serious and chronic health conditions, including heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and more. Here are some of the best superfoods to eat to your heart's content: Best Superfoods for a Healthy Heart Dark Leafy Greens Dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and arugula are rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Especially an important B vitamin called folate that is helpful for heart disease prevention. Berries Blueberries, strawberries, goji, and acai berries are all superfoods thanks to their flavonoids, which can lower blood pressure and dilate blood vessels, helping with circulation. Olives and Olive Oil The heart-healthy benefits of olive oil are well documented. Olive oil has shown to reduce blood pressure, bad cholesterol, and triglycerides while increasing good, heart-protective cholesterol. Fatty Fish and Fish Oil Salmon, mackerel, and other fatty fish are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain a healthy heart. If you don’t eat much seafood, fish oil is another option to get your dose of omega-3. Beans and Other Legumes Beans and other legumes benefit cardiovascular health because they are high in fiber, plant protein, and other micronutrients, but low in fat, free of cholesterol, and low on the glycemic index. Mixed Nuts and Seeds Nuts and seeds are excellent... --- - Published: 2022-11-03 - Modified: 2022-11-19 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/5-essential-traits-to-look-for-in-a-primary-doctor/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: chicago primary care, Chicago primary doctor, Chicago primary physician, primary care, primary care Chicago, primary care doctor, primary care physician, primary doctor, primary doctor near me, primary physician Choosing a primary care physician is one of the most important decisions you will make for your health. If you don’t have a primary doctor or are not at ease with the one you currently see, it's time to find a new doctor. Whether you just moved to a new city, had a bad experience with your doctor or medical staff, it is worthwhile to spend time finding a primary doctor you can trust. Finding the Right Primary Doctor Read on to know how to find the right primary doctor who can give you the medical attention you need, when you need it. As face time with patients shrinks, it puts physician–patient relationships at risk. The 2016 Survey of America's Physicians, conducted by Merritt Hawkins for The Physician’s Foundation, found physicians consider patient relationships the most satisfying aspect of their practices. patients are more likely to follow their doctor’s instructions if they feel they can trust their physician and that he or she has taken the time to listen, understand and show that he or she cares Availability The average primary doctor spends around 17 minutes with a patient. This is simply not enough time. A physician should remain with you until all your questions are answered, whether clinical or administrative. When patients get more time with doctors, they tend to be more satisfied with their care and experience reduced rates of medication prescriptions. Additionally, longer consultations are associated with better health outcomes. Having a primary doctor on call is... --- - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2022-10-29 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/cognitive-health-how-to-maintain-a-healthy-mind-as-you-age/ - Categories: Health and Wellness How to Maintain Cognitive Health as You Age Aging inevitably brings many changes, both physically and mentally. While it’s normal to experience some degree of mental decline with age, there are ways to help protect your brain health and proactively stave off memory loss and maintain cognitive health. Research points to a combination of healthy habits that can help you preserve and protect your brain’s function over time. Let's look at four of them below. 4 Ways to Keep Your Mind Sharp and Your Brain Healthy Keep your mind stimulated. Mentally stimulating activities can help build and preserve cognitive function. Find hobbies and activities you enjoy such as reading, volunteering, or learning a new skill. Crosswords, sudoku, and other puzzles keep your mind active as well. Stay active. Physical activity is an important factor in preserving brain health and function. In fact, cognitive decline can be almost twice as common among adults who are inactive compared to those who are active. Exercise also lowers blood pressure, helps blood sugar balance, improves cholesterol levels, and reduces stress, all of which can help protect your brain and your heart. Eat well. Eating certain foods (and avoiding others) has been shown to slow brain aging and lessen the chances of developing Alzheimer's disease. As a general rule, follow a healthy dietary pattern that includes a lot of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Try to get protein from plant sources and fish and choose healthy fats, such as olive oil or canola, rather... --- - Published: 2022-09-10 - Modified: 2022-10-01 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/double-trouble-flu-season-covid-19/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: covid, covid-19, covid-19 booster, double trouble, flu season, flu shot, flurona With the double threat of flu and COVID-19 in the air, vaccines are more important than ever. The best way to prevent a double flu/COVID infection is to get vaccinated for both the flu and COVID-19. Doing so will help protect you from severe illness and also reduce the strain on local health care systems. Stay Protected From Flu and COVID-19 This Fall Schedule an Appointment to Receive Your Flu Shot A flu vaccine helps prevent flu and its potentially serious complications. Getting the flu shot every year is essential to help protect yourself, your family, and our community from from the flu. Flu vaccination is especially crucial for people at higher risk of developing severe complications from flu, including children younger than 5, pregnant people, adults 65 and older, and people with certain chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma. Remember that a flu vaccine not only protects you but can also help protect those around you, including people at higher risk for serious flu illness. Dedication Health will have flu shots available for patients beginning on October 1st. Please call our office to schedule an appointment to receive your annual flu shot. CDC Recommends the First Updated COVID-19 Booster The CDC recommends a new, reformulated COVID-19 booster shot. These boosters, from Pfizer and its partner BioNTech as well as from Moderna, have been reformulated to include protection against the newer, widely spread Omicron subvariants of the COVID-causing virus, BA. 4 and BA. 5. They also... --- - Published: 2022-08-31 - Modified: 2022-08-31 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/afternoon-slump-got-you-down-heres-how-to-stay-energized-throughout-the-day/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: afternoon energy slump, afternoon slump When the afternoon rolls around, and you start to feel your energy dropping, there are many things you can do to boost energy levels naturally. Try these methods to beat an afternoon slump and have more energy throughout the day: How to Beat an Afternoon Slump in Energy Get Your Body Moving Work out. Squeezing a workout into your day, even if you can only spare 10 minutes at a time, will help keep your energy levels up throughout the day. Stretch it out. Yoga, which uses various movements, stretches, and breathing techniques for exercise and meditation, is an excellent fatigue fighter. Move around. Taking breaks throughout the day to move and stretch is a highly effective way to get that quick burst of energy to get you through the rest of the day! Exercise boosts energy, both immediately and over the long term. Make sure to get your body moving and your blood pumping throughout the day. Eat for an Energy Boost Don’t skip breakfast. A balanced breakfast provides energy to power through the day and helps your body perform at its best. Cut back on sugar. Steer clear of foods that are high in sugar or refined carbohydrates. Sugar gives you a quick, easy boost, but you’ll pay for it later with low blood sugar and a drop in energy. Stay Hydrated. Drinking enough water to stay hydrated is key for keeping energy levels up throughout your day. To have the energy you need to power through your... --- - Published: 2022-04-30 - Modified: 2022-05-11 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/boost-heart-health-3-things-you-can-do-to-protect-your-heart/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: boost heart health, health tips, healthy heart, healthy heart tips, heart doctor, heart health, heart health food, heart health tips, heart healthy diet, senior heart health While there are many risk factors for heart disease, there are also many things you can do to help prevent it. Take a few minutes to learn these 3 simple things that can boost heart health and have a huge impact on your health and overall well-being. Three Easy Ways to Boost Heart Health Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet Eating for heart health is as much about what you do eat as it is about limiting certain foods and ingredients. Fuel your heart with lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Reduce your intake of sweets, sugar-sweetened beverages, salt, saturated fat, and processed foods. The type of fat you eat plays an important role in your heart health. Choose healthy fat options, which include nuts, seeds, avocados, olives and their oils for cooking. Get Up and Get Moving Most adults should aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week to lower their risk of developing coronary heart disease. Even if you can only allot 10 minutes of exercise at a time, schedule it. Every little bit adds up. The longer you sit, the more detrimental it can be for your heart. Try to get up and move at least once an hour to improve your circulation and boost heart health. Exercise is the type of medicine that provides benefits no matter how small the dose. Know Your Numbers If you want to have a healthy heart, it is necessary to maintain normal blood... --- - Published: 2022-04-25 - Modified: 2022-05-11 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/new-updates-from-dedication-health/ - Categories: Health and Wellness Exciting Updates from Dedication Health Now Offering Galleri™ Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test Today, the majority of cancers are diagnosed too late, when outcomes are poor. That’s why we’re excited to offer the Galleri™ multi-cancer early detection test* to our members. This first-of-its-kind test detects more than 50 types of cancer through a simple blood draw. When cancer is detected in its early stages, more cancer treatment options may be available that can improve survival rates. Call our office to make an appointment to learn more and determine if the test may be right for you. Join Us in Welcoming Our New Certified Health Coaches If you’re having trouble making healthy habits stick, personalized health coaching through MyHealthCoach can help. MyHealthCoach, is our innovative, chronic care management application that will allow you to work with our certified health coaches to implement doctor-recommended changes to your diet and lifestyle. And in turn, help you reach health and wellness goals. To start working with one of our certified health coaches, call the office at 847-986-6770. Or, email our team at myhealthcoach@dedication-health. com to sign up for MyHealthCoach. Welcome, Christina! “I am a nutritionist and health coach with nearly twenty years of experience supporting and educating patients so that they can live a balanced lifestyle. I believe that wellness is a lifelong pursuit and empower my patients to find enjoyable ways of incorporating healthy choices into their everyday. " – Christina Kamins Welcome, Laura! "I enjoy working one on one with individuals and specialize... --- - Published: 2022-04-15 - Modified: 2022-04-15 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/good-sleep-is-essential-for-good-health/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: good sleep, sleep health Sleep is a vital, often neglected, component of every person's overall health and well-being. Most adults need at least 7 hours of sleep each night. However, more than 1 in 3 American adults say they don’t get the recommended amount of sleep. Not getting enough sleep on a regular basis can lead to serious health problems, or make certain health problems worse. 5 Health Benefits of Getting a Full Night's Sleep Disease Prevention Getting a good night’s sleep on a regular basis can reduce your risk of several common disorders and chronic diseases, including coronary heart disease, stroke, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dementia. Strengthen Immune System Sleep provides essential support to the immune system. Making sure your body has a chance to rest and recover from the day is important for your immune system to function at full strength. Curb Inflammation Inflammation is linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and arthritis. Research shows that people who get 6 hours or less of sleep have higher levels of inflammation than those who get more. Improve Brain Function Restful sleep has been linked to several brain functions. Getting enough sleep on a regular basis can improve concentration, memory, productivity, and cognitive function. Boost Mood and Energy Sleep provides essential support to the immune system. Making sure your body has a chance to rest and recover from the day is important for your immune system to function at full strength. What Time You Go to Bed May Affect Heart Disease Risk New... --- - Published: 2022-04-02 - Modified: 2022-04-11 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/geriatrician-why-you-should-see-a-geriatric-doctor/ - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: chicago geriatric doctor, chicago geriatrician, chicago geriatrics, find a geriatrician, geriatric doctor, geriatric doctors, Geriatrician, Geriatrician near me, geriatrics As people age, they have different medicals needs and requirements that should be treated by a physician who has extensive knowledge of elderly conditions and knows how to take care of them. Just like a pediatrician is specialized in child health and knows how to treat health conditions in infancy, a geriatrician is a physician who has additional training in treating elderly people. They know how to diagnose and treat age-related conditions and help you prevent health conditions. They have the same education as primary care doctors but undergo 1 to 2 additional years on geriatrics specialization. What Do Geriatricians Treat? Geriatric doctors understand and know how to treat conditions that affect the elderly. They have the skills and training necessary to treat patients with multiple conditions. These conditions can include Alzheimer's, muscle weakness, fatigue, heart conditions, diabetes, and arthritis. A geriatrician can also diagnose and treat age-related health conditions. They can help prevent and manage health issues that can arise later in life. These health issues could include memory loss, falls, frailty, and incontinence. When It Is Time To Make The Switch to a Geriatrician? Are you unsure whether you should start seeing a geriatrician? Here are some cases that may require you to get assistance from one. You are Taking Multiple Medications Elderly people may have a harder time metabolizing medications. When they take too many, they may experience dangerous side effects a sometimes the medication for one condition can affect the second one. A geriatrician will manage... --- - Published: 2022-03-12 - Modified: 2022-03-12 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/how-to-cope-with-chronic-illness/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: chronic illness, cope with chronic illness Chronic illness affects millions of people each year. When diagnosed with a chronic illness, you may feel depressed, angry, hopeless, low energy, and a wide variety of emotional symptoms. This could be due to the isolation patients feel when they are not able to keep the same pace in life as their family, friends, peers, coworkers, etc. It is important to understand that these feelings are normal and valid. Chronic illness can be difficult to live with, but finding ways to cope can help bring some relief. Since chronic illnesses can range in severity, symptoms, and the ways it affects people, it is good to find ways to cope that best suits your lifestyle while not making your symptoms worse. How to Cope with Chronic Illness Follow Your Treatment Plan When diagnosed with a chronic illness, it is important to work with your doctor on a treatment plan to manage your symptoms. Your treatment may include medication, physical activity limits, diet changes, more frequent check ups, and more. Complying with treatment can increase emotional wellness, and even quality of life especially once the right regime is found. With some patients, it can take time to find the right treatment which is why good communication with your physician and compliance is very important. Create a Support System Having support from people who understand your chronic illness can seem daunting, but necessary to feel connected with others. Support networks could look like family, friends, counselors, church groups, support groups, and even your... --- - Published: 2022-02-16 - Modified: 2022-02-16 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/why-you-should-see-a-cardiologist/ - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: cardio doctor, cardio specialist, Cardiologist, Cardiologist near me, cardiology, chicago cardiologist, find a cardiologist A cardiologist is a specialized physician who specializes in heart disease. Typically, you would be referred to a cardiologist by your primary care physician or your concierge medical doctor depending on their medical assessment. With heart disease being the number one leading cause for Americans, it is important to stay vigilant about your heart health and seek a cardiologist if you have signs of heart disease. Common Reasons To See a Cardiologist Symptoms That Are Concerning The most common reason that patients begin to see a cardiologist is due to concerning symptoms. Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, fainting episodes, extreme fatigue, and difficulty swallowing are some of the most concerning symptoms that could indicate that there could be a cardiac issue. Some symptoms, like nausea, is a symptom that is not typically a concern on its own. However, when these symptoms are combined with cold sweats or chest pain, they should be evaluated immediately. Abnormal Labs Whether you see a traditional doctor or a concierge medical physician, lab work is used in order to gauge levels in your system such as cholesterol, electrolytes, cardiac biomarkers, blood sugar, and more. Depending on the results, doctors are able to tell if you are at greater risk for certain cardiac diseases or events and figure out a treatment plan to best suit your healthcare needs. Family History of Heart Disease Have you ever wondered why patient intake paperwork usually includes extensive family history? This is due to hereditary ties between families.... --- - Published: 2022-01-30 - Modified: 2022-01-30 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/4-easy-health-goals-for-2022/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: 2022 health, 2022 new year, 2022 resolutions, health, health goals, health resolutions There’s no better time than right now to adopt healthier habits that could help you feel better and live longer. Resolve to be happier and healthier in 2022 by setting realistic health goals and taking steps to reach them. To help you get started, here are four health goals that you can achieve this year: 4 Health Goals for 2022 Find a Type of Exercise You Love Try different types of exercise such as dancing, playing a sport, or taking a scenic hike until you find one you enjoy and would look forward to. Make Sleep a Priority Get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night by establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and keeping a consistent sleep schedule. Try New Ways to Relieve Stress Experiment with new relaxation techniques, such as writing in a journal or practicing yoga, that can help you manage daily stress. Add More Vegetables to Your Diet Make a healthy eating change by focusing on adding more vegetables to your plate. Even adding a side salad is an easy way to increase your intake. Achieve 2022 Health Goals For a Happy, Healthy New Year Implementing healthy routines, finding new hobbies, and adding healthy substitutions are great ways to hit those healthy new year’s resolutions. If you want to improve your health this year, contact Dedication Health today. Our concierge physicians in Chicago can help you achieve your health goals for 2022. Call Dedication Health at 847-986-6770. From our family to yours, we wish you a... --- - Published: 2021-10-28 - Modified: 2022-05-11 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/diabetes-the-difference-between-type-1-and-type-2/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: diabetes, diabetes care, diabetes care near me, diabetes chicago, diabetes doctor, diabetes treatment, diabetes types, endocrinologist, endocrinology, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes Diabetes has become an increasingly problematic diagnosis that many Americans are being faced with. In fact, over 34 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes. That is the equivalent of 1 in 10 people. Diabetes should be treated regularly and consistently by a qualified healthcare physician. With Diabetes National Awareness Month taking place in November, we thought it would be beneficial to shed light on the types of diabetes and how they affect a person. Diabetes should be taken seriously, as ignoring proper treatment could lead to serious complications. What Is The Difference Between Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes? Type 1 Diabetes Otherwise known as insulin-dependent diabetes, this condition causes the body, specifically the pancreas, to stop producing insulin. Most people with type one diabetes are diagnosed in childhood; however, it can develop at any age. At this time, there is no way to prevent or cure type one diabetes at this time but it can be managed effectively with the right treatment. Since our bodies need insulin to survive, patients with type one diabetes must take daily injections or use an insulin pump. It is important for a person who is diagnosed with type one diabetes to work closely with a physician when taking insulin. There is a multitude of situations that could occur that would require a change in dosage and timing of insulin. Without the proper treatment of insulin, patients could face very serious health complications such as death. Type 2 Diabetes Otherwise known as insulin-resistance... --- - Published: 2021-09-03 - Modified: 2021-09-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/covid-19-vaccine-and-the-delta-variant-are-you-protected/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: chicago vaccination, coronavirus, coronavirus vaccination, coronavirus vaccine, covid vaccination, covid vaccine, covid-19, covid-19 vaccination, covid-19 vaccine The most important thing you can do to protect yourself from COVID-19 is to get fully vaccinated. Vaccines are highly effective at preventing COVID-19 infection and are also effective in fighting against the Delta variant. Whether or not you are vaccinated, it’s also important to follow prevention guidelines that are available for vaccinated and unvaccinated people. Remember, we are all in this together. Learn steps you can take to do your part to keep yourself, your loved ones, and your community safe. Vaccination is More Important Now Than Ever The numbers of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the United States are rising by the day amid the rise of the Delta variant. The Delta variant causes more infections and spreads faster than earlier forms of the virus that causes COVID-19. By the end of July, Delta was the cause of more than 80% of new U. S. COVID-19 cases, according to CDC estimates. The highest spread of cases and severe outcomes are happening in places with low vaccination rates. Vaccines Are Highly Effective Even if They’re Not Perfect COVID-19 vaccines are effective and are a critical tool to bring the pandemic under control. New COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations have been largely limited to the unvaccinated. However, no vaccines are 100% effective at preventing illness in vaccinated people and breakthrough cases, while rare, do happen. For vaccinated people who are infected with COVID-19, the vaccine still provides them strong protection against serious illness and death. Where to Go to Get Your... --- - Published: 2021-08-07 - Modified: 2021-08-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/medical-concierge-services-in-cook-county-illinois/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge doctor, concierge health, concierge health care, concierge healthcare, concierge medical care, concierge medical services, concierge medicine, concierge medicine cook county, concierge medicine near me, cook county, cook county doctor, medical concierge, medical concierge services If you want more personalized care from your physician, concierge medicine is the perfect solution. Concierge medical practices, including here at Dedication Health in Cook County, take the time to build strong and enduring relationships with each patient. Concierge physicians use that insight to create an individual personal health plan for a healthy and fulfilling life. Patients can take comfort in knowing your doctor is dedicated to delivering the highest quality healthcare and personalized medical concierge services. Learn more about medical concierge services to determine if concierge medicine is right for you. Medical Concierge Services While all concierge practices are different, you can generally expect to see the following concierge medicine services: Concierge Primary Care Concierge primary care puts you in charge of your health by providing unparalleled communication and convenience with your healthcare team — online and in person. It’s the day-to-day healthcare you rely on from your primary care physician, plus a whole lot more. Concierge primary care is personalized and preventative healthcare. Concierge primary care doctors believe you have to be proactive when it comes to your health. You can’t wait for something to go wrong with your body to decide to take care of it. And when you do begin to experience some type of symptoms, you need to correct the source of the problem and not just suppress the symptoms. With a concierge health membership at Dedication Health, you and your family will receive personalized, preventative primary care to help you maintain optimal health and... --- - Published: 2021-07-10 - Modified: 2021-07-15 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/stress-what-it-does-to-the-body/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: effect of stress, health, health and wellness, how stress affects health, how stress affects the body, stress, stress and health, stress management, stress on the body Stress is no stranger to any of us, it affects everyone. For example, the global pandemic has caused many people around the world severe stress. Stress regarding health, safety, job security, social isolation, and so much more. There is some stress that is good for your body. Examples of this would include exercising, starting a new job, riding roller coasters, and anything else that brings excitement and fulfillment. The body has an easier time registering this kind of stress. However, when we are stressed about finances, health, living situations, or things that could negatively affect us, our bodies have a much harder time processing it. Over time, chronic stress can cause a variety of health problems. Nervous System Symptoms from Stress The nervous system takes on a lot when stress comes our way. Our nervous system is responsible for our “fight or flight” responses. It sends signals to every other system declaring that there is danger and what to do about it. As said before, some stress is good. It keeps us safe from dangerous situations. However, our nervous systems need to be able to come back down from “fight or flight” when we are not in dangerous situations. Having your nervous system constantly on alert lowers the other systems ability to fight infection and cause damage to major nerves in your body. These nerves are responsible for the communication between systems and are vital to maintaining good health. If you experience tingling in your fingers or toes, get numbness... --- - Published: 2021-06-27 - Modified: 2021-06-27 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/summer-health-tips-to-have-a-happy-healthy-summer/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: 2021 health, 2021 health tips, health tips, internal medicine, internist, summer 2021, summer health, summer health tip, summer health tips, summer safety, summer safety tips, sun health, sun safety Summer is officially here! While the sun can feel great on your skin and provide necessary Vitamin D, too much can cause long-lasting damage. While prolonged sun exposure is the number one risk factor for skin cancer, some of the most effective precautions to prevent sun damage are also the easiest. Follow these quick and easy summer health tips for staying safe while enjoying the summer outdoors. Summer Health Tips Following these summer health tips can help you enjoy the beautiful summer weather while keeping your health and safety in mind. Hydration is Key The key to staying safe and healthy this summer is staying hydrated. Aim for at least 8-12 cups of water every day. Tips to stay hydrated include: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Limiting alcohol, sugary drinks, and/or caffeine. Knowing the signs of dehydration and seeking medical attention right away if you experience severe dehydration symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, fainting, rapid heart rate, or others. Stay Cool During Exercise Regular physical activity is crucial for health and wellness. However, if you plan on exercising outdoors, be sure to take some precautions so you don’t get overheated in hot weather. These precautions and summer health tips include: Exercising in the morning or evening, when it’s cooler outdoors. If possible, exercising in shady areas. Wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing. If it’s too hot out, move your workout indoors. Protect Your Skin From the Sun UV rays can damage your skin in as... --- - Published: 2021-06-10 - Modified: 2021-07-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/diabetes-specialist-when-should-i-see-an-endocrinologist-for-diabetes/ - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: best diabetes care, Chicago endocrinology, control diabetes, diabetes, diabetes care, diabetes chicago, diabetes doctor, diabetes specialist, diabetes treatment, endocrinologist, endocrinology, endocrinology doctor, endocrinology specialist, internal medicine, internist, type 2 diabetes Proper management of diabetes is vital for overall health. The problems can continue to escalate if a person doesn't make positive changes. Losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and taking medications as prescribed all influence how well diabetes is controlled. Don't forget to keep all scheduled appointments with the doctor and notify them if something seems off. Despite such efforts, it may not be enough. You may need to see a diabetes specialist, or endocrinologist, to control diabetes successfully. When Should I See an Endocrinologist for Diabetes? An endocrinologist is a doctor that specializes in diabetes. While your primary doctor can help you, they do not have the same level of expertise relating to diabetes. For this reason, you may need to see a diabetes specialist for your treatment plan and strategy. Your Primary Care Doctor Recommends a Diabetes Specialist Your primary care doctor may encourage you to see an Endocrinologist. They may feel your diagnosis is severe enough, or it is unique. Or, they may feel it is beyond their level of care. Don't ignore this recommendation if it indicates your doctor feels you need additional treatment. Your doctor should share with you why they think this specialist is necessary. Ask questions if you have any. Your doctor may not have many diabetes patients. They may not have experience with the level of treatment you require. As a professional, they have a responsibility to share this with you. It shows they care about you and want to make sure... --- - Published: 2021-05-30 - Modified: 2021-07-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/nature-for-health-how-spending-time-outdoors-can-impact-health-and-happiness/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: health benefits of nature, healthy, nature for health, nature health, nature prescription, nature rx, nature therapy, prescribing nature, prescription for nature Spending time outdoors in nature may have a positive impact on our health and happiness. Whether you prefer the beach, a hiking trail, or your own garden, getting outside could be an easy and powerful way to improve your health and wellbeing. Learn more about the benefits of nature for health. Why Doctors are Prescribing Nature for Health Here are six reasons to spend more time in nature: Boost Immunity Spending time outdoors can help bolster defenses to protect against viral infections as well as increase the immune response to vaccination. Increase Energy Because of the invigorating effects of fresh air and sunlight, going outside is a great way to improve vitality. The boost of sudden energy can help inspire you to be more active, too! Release Stress Taking a walk in nature for as little as 20 minutes could be enough to lower cortisol levels and significantly reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Improve Mood Being out in nature can create a sense of inner peace and happiness. Time spent outdoors may help improve feelings of self-esteem and help fight depression as well. Alleviate Pain and Inflammation Chronic pain can become worse with increased inflammation. Thankfully, both the causes and symptoms of inflammation can be reduced by spending more time in nature. Lower Risk of Chronic Disease Being outdoors, which is often associated with physical activity, can help lower the risk of cancer, cardiovascular problems, obesity, and more. Nature for Health To learn more about our concierge medical practice... --- - Published: 2021-04-01 - Modified: 2021-07-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/kidney-health-protect-yourself-from-kidney-disease/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: kidney health, kidney health month, kidney healthcare, kidney month, kindey doctor, national kidney month March is National Kidney Month which means we are going to talk about the impact these bean-shaped organs have in regards to our health and wellness. Kidneys provide many benefits to our health including filtering blood, releasing waste and toxins, producing hormones, regulating pH, and controlling blood pressure. However, as we get older, we can develop kidney disease. Kidney disease can be known as a silent killer due to lack of symptoms and very serious if not caught early. The most common kidney disease is called Chronic Kidney Disease. This often-overlooked disease affects approximately 15% of the United States population. That is approximately 37 million people whose kidneys are not effectively working as they should. Chronic Kidney Disease is scaled into five stages depending on the levels of kidney function with stage five being the most severe. However, there are some things we can do to make it easier for our kidneys to function such as: How to Improve Kidney Health Visit with Your Doctor If you have any concerns for your health, it is always important to connect with your concierge medical provider or primary physician to talk to so they can determine the next steps that need to take place. Be sure to include any family history of kidney disease so that your provider has a full overview before deciding on their course of action. Typically, blood work and imaging may follow in order to determine how well your kidneys are functioning. You may even be referred to... --- - Published: 2021-03-21 - Modified: 2021-03-21 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/covid-vaccine-call-center-seniors-call-now-for-covid-vaccine-appointment/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: call center, covid vaccination, covid vaccination chicago, covid vaccine, covid vaccine appointment, covid vaccine call center, covid vaccine chicago, covid vaccine cook county, covid vaccine illinois, covid vaccine register, covid vaccine winnetka, illinois covid vaccine CALL CENTER OPEN NOW AND LINES ARE AVAILABLE TO REGISTER SENIORS. 847-853-8231 847-716-3300 224-214-4630 847-835-4117 Residents of Glencoe, Kenilworth, Northfield, Wilmette, and Winnetka ages 65 and over can register to receive the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at New Trier High School Northfield Campus (7 Happ Road, Northfield) on Tuesday, March 23 (1st dose) and Tuesday, April 20 (2nd dose) by calling any of the following numbers on Friday, March 19 from 10 AM-4 PM or until appointments are filled, whichever is first: · 224-214-4630 · 847-835-4117 · 847-716-3300 · 847-753-8231 Vaccination appointments will be made on a first come, first served basis. Approximately 1,100 doses are available. Once appointments are filled, callers will receive an automated message to this effect. No online registration portal is available for this clinic. This opportunity is provided by Cook County and Albertsons/Jewel Osco, hosted by New Trier High School, and staffed by employees of participating municipalities. In order to be eligible, residents must present a valid driver’s license (proving identity and residency in Glencoe, Kenilworth, Northfield, Wilmette, or Winnetka) and insurance card at the vaccination site. After registering, individuals will receive an email with authorization documents that should be filled out and brought to the vaccination site. Residents signing up to be vaccinated must be available on both March 23 and April 20 and able to provide their own transportation to and from the site. Please be a good neighbor and share this opportunity with seniors who are still in need of the vaccine or... --- - Published: 2021-03-17 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-chicago/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago, chicago concierge medicine, chicago doctor, chicago doctors, chicago physician, chicago physicians, concierge care, concierge doctor, concierge doctors, concierge healthcare, concierge medical, concierge medical care, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine near me, concierge physician, concierge physicians, concierge practice, concierge primary care, geriatric medicine, geriatrics, medical concierge Imagine being able to reach your primary care doctor any time you want. Someone who knows your entire medical history; answers your emails, texts, and phone calls 24/7; gives you same-day appointments when you’re sick. This high level of attention and care is now accessible for individuals and families that become a member at a concierge medical practice. These concierge practices offer unlimited doctor access and enhanced services for a low membership fee and are popping up across the U. S. Learn what you should know on this guide, Concierge Medicine Chicago. Concierge Medicine vs Traditional Healthcare With a traditional office practice, a doctor tries to manage some 2,000 patients. On an average of about one patient every 10-15 minutes. Insurance reimbursements are such that doctors have to see a high number of patients to make ends meet. Personalized attention can sometimes seem like it’s lacking when a doctor is rushed. A concierge practice, in comparison, will keep its patient load to only a couple hundred patients. Concierge doctors say they can spend more time with patients and focus more on preventative health care. In addition, concierge medical practices such as Dedication Health in Chicago only schedule one patient to see that doctor at a time. As a result, no more waiting for appointments, more personalized attention, and longer face-to-face time with your concierge doctor to ensure all of your needs are addressed. These are just some of the reasons more and more patients and doctors are switching to a... --- - Published: 2021-03-04 - Modified: 2021-03-04 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/illinois-covid-19-vaccines-for-seniors-and-phase-1b/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: covid vaccination, covid vaccine, covid-19, covid-19 vaccine, illinois covid, illinois covid vaccine Vaccine Appointments Available to Schedule Beginning March 4th at 8:30 a. m. for Seniors and March 7th at 4 p. m. for Residents Eligible in Phase 1B+ Beginning Thursday, March 4 at 8:30 a. m. , Illinois seniors can schedule their first COVID-19 vaccine appointment at the United Center vaccine site, which will begin to administer a limited number of vaccines on March 9, with a full opening March 10. Following this exclusive appointment period for seniors, all Illinoisans eligible under the state’s Phase 1B+ will be able to schedule appointments on Sunday, March 7 at 4 p. m. The United Center site will have the capacity to administer 6,000 doses per day, with all doses provided directly by the federal government and not taken out of state or city allotments. More than 100,000 appointments over the next three days will be available when registration opens. The vaccine will be offered at no cost, and insurance is not required, nor will it be requested at the federal community vaccination center. Documentation regarding immigration status is also not required. Illinois residents have two options for making appointments: online and through a call center. • To register online, visit www. zocdoc. com/vaccine. The website is projected to handle much higher volume of appointment requests. Zocdoc will show real-time appointment availability and eligible residents will then be able to select a date/time and book an appointment online. Date of birth will be required when booking an appointment to confirm vaccine eligibility. • To... --- - Published: 2021-02-20 - Modified: 2021-07-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/4-benefits-of-concierge-medicine-in-2021/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge benefits, concierge doctor, concierge health, concierge health benefits, concierge healthcare, concierge medical, concierge medical practice, concierge medical practice chicago, concierge medicine, concierge medicine 2021, concierge medicine benefits, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine physician We have seen an increase in concierge medicine for individuals since the epidemic started. The benefits that concierge medical practices provide their patients have become more and more evident. Since the Coronavirus pandemic, we have seen that underlying conditions and long-term effects of the virus can affect our health greatly. By joining a concierge medicine practice, patients have been able to work closely with a concierge physician in order to improve their health. Are you wondering if concierge medicine is right for you? Below are some of the most valuable benefits of concierge medicine practices for patients. 4 Benefits of Concierge Medicine Personalized Treatment Plans If there is one thing we have learned this past year, it is that we must protect our health fervently. Concierge medicine provides personalized treatment for patients of all types of medical backgrounds. Having a concierge physician available to answer questions, Additionally, the chance for the concierge physician to get to know you as a person and not as a patient number which leads to better satisfaction of care. If you have a chronic condition/s that need medical care, having a concierge physician can be convenient and cost-effective. Even if you have to get specialized labs, imaging, or procedures outside of the concierge office, your concierge provider will be able to work with those sources to keep all of your information in one place. This ensures that when your doctor created and maintains your treatment plan, that they have all of the information instead of... --- - Published: 2021-02-08 - Modified: 2021-02-12 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/covid-19-vaccine-sign-up-locations-and-northshore-covid-19-vaccine-update/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: chicago covid vaccine, covid chicago, covid update, covid vaccine, covid-19, covid-19 update, covid-19 vaccine COVID VACCINE SIGN-UP LOCATIONS: City of Chicago Vaccination Sites https://getvaxchi. chicago. gov Jewel https://mhealthcheckin. com/covidappt Innovative care https://innovativecorona. com/ Oak Street Health https://www. oakstreethealth. com/covid-19-vaccine Walgreens https://www. walgreens. com/findcare/vaccination/covid-19 Cook County: https://vaccine. cookcountyil. gov/ Lake County: https://www. lakecountyil. gov/4521/COVID-19-Vaccine NorthShore: https://www. northshoreconnect. org/mychart/Authentication/Login This information is sent on behalf of Sean T. O’Grady, Chief Operating Officer and Lakshmi Halasyamani, MD, Chief Medical Officer. Phase 1B COVID-19 Vaccine Administration Update NorthShore will begin administering vaccines as a part of our System Phase 1b roll-out efforts this week. In response to the request of public health officials, NorthShore entities will focus efforts on our patients 65 and older. Across NorthShore Legacy, Swedish and Northwest Community, there are over 300,000 individuals aligned with our system who are 65 and over. Each of our entities has developed an operational plan that best meets the needs of the communities we serve. While the amount of vaccine we will receive remains unclear and it will take several weeks to recruit staff to fill our vaccine operations, NorthShore is ramping up capacity to provide vaccines at regional clinics in Evanston, Lake Bluff, Northbrook, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove and in the City of Chicago on the Swedish campus. Last week, NorthShore began communicating with eligible 1b individuals about next steps in the process. We also communicated with individuals who are not in 1b about our efforts. In the coming days, eligible individuals in 1b will receive additional electronic communication to complete a pre-visit assessment and more information about... --- - Published: 2021-02-04 - Modified: 2021-02-04 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/heart-health-tips-to-protect-your-heart/ - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: 2021 health tips, american heart health, american heart month, best doctor in chicago, chicago doctor, health health month, health tip, health tips, heart doctor, heart health, heart health covid, heart health doctor, heart health tips February is American Heart Month. Here at Dedication Health, we want to bring you accurate information, support, and heart health tips. Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death for Americans regardless of gender and ethnic background. Studies have shown that the Coronavirus has lasting effects on the heart, which is why it is vital to start thinking about how to make some positive changes that your heart will thank you for. Top Heart Health Tips Decrease Stress Now more than ever, Americans are struggling more and more with high-stress levels due to the impact of the Coronavirus. Managing your stress is very important to heart health. With Americans more stressed than ever due to many factors involving the Coronavirus, it is now vital to their health for people to learn how to lower their stress. You may consider talking to someone about your stress, such as a doctor or counselor. They can provide coping skills or other tools to use to lower stress. Get Active Pump it up! One of the best ways to better your heart health is to get it pumping. Creating a lifestyle that allows you to be more active will strengthen your heart. A mixture of cardio and strength training is the ideal regime. Still, it is important to talk to your doctor before adding any new type of strenuous activity to your lifestyle. Don’t have access to a gym right now? No problem! There are many online resources where you can do... --- - Published: 2021-01-29 - Modified: 2021-01-29 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/covid-19-vaccine-in-chicago/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: coronavirus vaccination, coronavirus vaccine, covid-19, covid-19 vaccination, covid-19 vaccine Wearing masks and social distancing help reduce your chance of being exposed to COVID-19 or spreading it to others, but these measures are not enough. The combination of getting vaccinated and following CDC’s recommendations to protect yourself and others will offer the best protection from COVID-19. Vaccines will work with your immune system so it will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. As Illinois is opening vaccinations to millions of residents under Phase 1B guidelines, find out how you can get the COVID-19 vaccine in Chicago and surrounding cities. Phase 1B opens up vaccinations to people age 65 years and older as well as "frontline essential workers," which includes first responders, education workers like teachers and support staff, childcare workers, grocery store employees, postal service workers, and more. There are several ways eligible residents will be able to get vaccinated, but state officials have urged patience as the new phase opens up. COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout There is currently a limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine. While the supply is limited, certain groups (e. g. healthcare workers) will be prioritized to receive the vaccine, based on national guidance. For more information see COVID-19 Vaccine Planning in Chicago. Find Out When and Where You Can Get the COVID Vaccine Residents in Cook County, Lake County, DuPage County, and Will County can sign-up to receive updates on the COVID-19 vaccine. Cook County Residents can now register for coronavirus vaccine updates, including when they will be able to receive their first... --- - Published: 2021-01-26 - Modified: 2021-01-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/mental-health-amid-covid-19-pandemic/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: coronavirus, covid-19, mental health, mental health coronavirus It has been over a year since the novel coronavirus, otherwise known as COVID-19, has plagued the world around us. We have heard the stories, or maybe even seen first hand through personal experience or loved ones, the physical symptoms that this virus can cause. But what about its mental toll? Taking care of mental health is essential for overall health and wellbeing. During such turbulent times, mental health is more important now than ever. Learn steps you can take to cope. How the Coronavirus Pandemic Can Effect Your Mental Health Whether you have been diagnosed with coronavirus or not, the precautions, social isolation, and fatigue cause the perfect storm. What should you look out for? On this page, we will discuss the most common mental health symptoms that have been affecting millions of America since the epidemic started. Depression Depression already affects over 16 million people in the United States. Since coronavirus and lockdown measures have been put in place, this number has increased rapidly over the last year. For the more at-risk groups of people, such as the elderly, complete isolation for months at a time had to be implemented. Weekly visits from the family in most care facilities had to be ceased, causing feelings of such loneliness and sadness. Additionally, if those also suffered from dementia or Alzheimers, the ability to keep these patients grounded and remembering has become more challenging for many people. Phone calls and window visits are difficult and not as effective for those... --- - Published: 2021-01-10 - Modified: 2021-01-10 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/thyroid-awareness-month/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: concierge doctor, internal medicine, thyroid, thyroid awareness, thyroid awareness month, thyroid awareness month 2020, thyroid care, thyroid disorder, thyroid disorders, thyroid doctor, thyroid health, thyroid treatment January is Thyroid Awareness Month. Most wouldn’t believe how much trouble this little butterfly-shaped gland can cause if it is not balanced. If left untreated, it can cause many physical and mental symptoms that can range from mild to debilitating. Annual checkups with your doctors and bloodwork will help detect if there is a variance with your thyroid levels. At Dedication Health, we are discussing the most common questions people have in regards to the thyroid gland and spreading awareness of thyroid disorders. 3 FAQ's for Thyroid Awareness Month What is the Thyroid Gland and Why is it Important? The thyroid is a vital gland at the base of the neck that plays a vital role throughout the whole body. It is responsible for sending out special hormones that help regulate metabolism, body temperature, mood, and even brain development. In order to keep the body functioning properly, the hormones (T3 and T4) need to be produced at the appropriate amount. If not, it can cause a thyroid disorder that can lead to many health complications such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and even infertility. The good news is, there are several ways to treat a thyroid disorder under the care of internal medicine doctors with medication and diet. Are There Different Types of Thyroid Disorders? Yes, the two generalized types are Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism. It is estimated that approximately 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disorder. When your thyroid is working harder than it should, this is hyperthyroidism.... --- - Published: 2021-01-02 - Modified: 2021-01-02 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/top-10-healthy-habits-for-2021/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: 2021, 2021 health, 2021 healthy habits, 2021 new year, happy new year, health, health and wellness, health habits, healthy habits, healthy lifestyle, healthy new year, new year goals, new year habits, new year resolutions, top 10 The new year is finally here! For many, this is the time to begin thinking about how we would like this year to look. With record coronavirus cases rising, staying healthy is at the top of everyone’s list. What does this look like coming into the new year? Are your goals focused on losing weight, building muscle, or improving overall health? We have compiled a list of 10 healthy habits that are easy to incorporate during these uncertain times. These habits are meant to be creative yet easy to implement. Instead of restriction and overworking, we are replacing or adding healthy habits to help reach attainable goals. 10 Healthy Habits for 2021 Kickstart 2021 with these top 10 healthy habits for a happy and healthy new year. Drink More Water This one may seem overused and cliche, but studies show that adequate water intake holds so many benefits in regard to our health. With over 60% of our bodies being made of water, it is a key ingredient to keep our bodies sustaining our health and wellness. Water distributes oxygen to our bodies, protects our vital organs, aids in digestion, and helps encourage weight loss. Find Ways to be More Active With the urge for everyone to stay at home, it can be challenging to find ways to be active especially if you are used to going to the gym or taking exercise classes. However, increasing physical activity can help you sustain good energy levels, boost your immune system, and... --- - Published: 2020-11-01 - Modified: 2020-12-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/the-average-doctor-appointment-is-far-too-short/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: chicago concierge doctor, chicago concierge medicine, chicago doctor appointment, concierge doctor, concierge doctor appointment, concierge doctor near me, concierge medicine, concierge medicine near me, doctor appointment, internal medicine doctor, internal medicine doctor appointment Doctors become doctors to care for people, to listen to them, guide them toward wellness, diagnose and treat them when they are ill, and generally to be healers rooted within a community. These themes are so foundational that the hypocritic oath specifically calls out the importance of mentorship between physicians, the need to remember the "art" within the science, the power of compassion, and the deep truth that a person is more than the sum of his or her symptoms. Meanwhile, health and illness, how we feel in, and about, our bodies are deeply personal topics that can be difficult to discuss. Patients need to feel like they are in a safe space where an expertly trained, well-rested, fully present professional can engage with them to weave together a complete picture of why they are not sleeping or what is causing their chronic pain. That is a tall order for the average 15-minute time allotment for an in-office doctor appointment. A 15-Minute Doctor Appointment Does Not Work No one knows exactly why short and rushed visits became the norm. And how doctors structure the "15-minute doctor appointment" varies. Generally, they start by asking the patient how they are and why they came in. They try to zero in on the “chief complaint” — the medical term for the patient’s primary reason for the visit. However, most patients have more than one issue to discuss. Fifteen minutes with a doctor is simply not enough time for patients to address all of... --- - Published: 2020-10-18 - Modified: 2020-10-18 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/benefits-of-electronic-health-records/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: ehr, ehr system, electronic health record, electronic health record system, electronic health records, health records, health system, health tech, health technology, health trends, healthcare, healthcare trends In a world that revolves around digital information, doctors and other medical practitioners have begun to heavily rely on electronic health records. EHR or electronic health records are digital records of health information. They contain all the information you’d find in a paper chart — and a lot more. There are many benefits to using electronic health records, for both primary care providers and patients. How Are Electronic Health Records Used? Electronic Health Records make extensive and secure medical records instantly accessible to authorized users. Many EHRs are also designed to provide information to the patient and other health care providers, helping to inform clinical decisions and coordinate care. While an EHR does contain the medical and treatment histories of patients, an EHR system is built to go beyond standard clinical data collected in a doctor's office and can be inclusive of a broader view of a patient’s care. Benefits of an Electronic Health Records System There are many benefits of electronic health records to health care providers. For starters, the data will prove to be more extensive and accurate as compared to paper records over time. The medical data is also available 24/7 online, and is available to any number of authorized doctors and specialists, each accessing the same set of information. Histories of tests and medical events will exist over time, allowing each health care provider to see the patient's history in one permanent location. Less Paperwork. Clinicians and staff currently spend a significant amount of time working... --- - Published: 2020-09-26 - Modified: 2020-09-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/how-to-be-active-at-any-age/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: anti aging, anti aging exercise, chicago doctor, chicago fitness, chicago health, Chicago Primary Care Physician, doctor, exercise, fitness, fitness tips, health, health exercise, Health management, health tip, health tips, healthy aging, home exercise, home fitness, how to be active, how to be more active, primary care physician, senior exercise, senior fitness, wellness How to Be Active at Any Age: Move More, Sit Less Americans should sit less and move more, even if that activity comes in tiny chunks, according to the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services’ new physical activity guidelines. The guidelines urge Americans to get at least 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise (such as running), at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (such as brisk walking) or some combination of the two every week. In addition, the guidelines say adults should aim to complete muscle-strengthening activities, such as resistance training or weight-lifting, at least two days per week. adults to simply “move more and sit less throughout the day,” and reminding them that “some physical activity is better than none. ” This is why it is important for everyone to discover how to be active, and it is is never too late to start. The Importance of Physical Activity Physical activity and exercise provides immediate and long-term health benefits. For example, exercise improves your health and can reduce the risk of developing several diseases like type 2 diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease. Most importantly, regular activity can improve your quality of life and longevity. In other words, staying active can add years to your life and add life to your years. If you want to learn how to be active no matter your age or where you are, check out these tips from Dedication Health. If you have a health problem like heart disease, diabetes, or... --- - Published: 2020-08-31 - Modified: 2020-08-31 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/membership-medicine-is-the-future/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge doctor, chicago concierge practice, chicago membership healthcare, concierge doctor, concierge medical, concierge medical care, concierge medicine, concierge membership, concierge practice, direct primary care, health concierge membership, health membership, health membership chicago, membership healthcare, membership medical care, membership medicine, primary care, retainer medicine The desire for personalized and on-demand products and services has changed nearly every industry in recent years. It's no surprise that healthcare has undergone these changes as well. Patients are unsatisfied with traditional medical practices that operate more like an assembly line than a healthcare provider. Primary care doctors generally focus on seeing as many patients in a day as possible. As a result, patients are limited to only a few minutes with their provider. This has led many patients to seek out a better alternative than traditional primary care, namely, membership medicine. What is Membership Medicine? Put simply, membership medicine is primary care offered directly to patients and employers, generally without insurance administration. This model of medicine is a counter-response to the soaring costs of health insurance, doctor burnout, as well as plummeting patient and physician satisfaction. Membership medicine is known by many names including concierge medicine, direct primary care, boutique medicine, direct-pay, membership healthcare, cash-only, and retainer medicine. Under this model, a modest monthly, quarterly, or annual fee typically covers unlimited office visits, as well as discounts for both medications and lab tests. While all practices are different, the membership fee also includes exclusive benefits and enhanced services. Concierge members of Dedication Health receive industry-leading medical care and a suite of best-in-class benefits and services. These benefits include same-day appointments, 24-hour access to your personal doctor, private suites, unrestricted time with your physician, no waiting times, and much more. Concierge medical practices also offer more services than traditional... --- - Published: 2020-08-16 - Modified: 2020-08-16 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/internists-disease-prevention-management - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge medicine, chicago internal medicine, chicago internist, concierge internal medicine, concierge internist, concierge medicine, conicerge internal medicine, disease managment, disease prevention, internal medicine, internist, preventive medicine How Are Internists Different From Other Doctors? Internal medicine physicians are often referred to as internists or doctors of internal medicine. Internists are not to be mistaken with "interns," who are doctors in their first year of residency training. Undergoing at least 7 years of medical school and postgraduate training, internists are sometimes referred to as the “doctor’s doctor”. This is because they are often called upon to act as consultants to other physicians to help solve puzzling diagnostic problems. Internists are trained to deal with any health problem a patient may have, no matter how rare or complex, including severe chronic illnesses or situations where several different illnesses may be present at the same time. They are highly skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, infections and diseases affecting the heart, blood, kidneys, joints, and digestive, respiratory and vascular systems. Internists are also trained in primary care internal medicine. This incorporates an understanding of disease prevention, wellness, substance abuse, mental health and effective treatment of common problems of the eyes, ears, skin, nervous system and reproductive organs. Why are Internists the Best Choice for Disease Prevention and Management in Adults? The reason why more and more people are choosing to have any diseases they are diagnosed with taken care of by an internist is because this is their medical area of focus. They have received the exact type of medical training necessary to diagnose and treat adults who have chronic conditions. These conditions include heart disease, hypertension, diabetes,... --- - Published: 2020-06-10 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-primary-care-why-physicians-switch-to-concierge-medicine/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago primary care, concierge doctor, concierge health, concierge medicne, concierge membership, concierge model, concierge pcp, concierge physician, concierge primary care, concierge primary care physians, pcp, primary care, primary care doctors, primary care physians Concierge healthcare is continuing to grow in popularity all across the country. Concierge medicine, often referred to as retainer medicine, is considered to be much more rewarding for both physicians and their patients. Rather than the traditional model of care, concierge primary care physicians cater to their patients rather than insurance companies. This is not to say that they do not accept insurance. In fact, many concierge medical practices including Dedication Health will bill your insurance for tests not included in your membership. While every practice is different, generally a concierge health membership includes unlimited visits and urgent care, 24-hour access, routine vaccinations, health screenings, and other services. Rather than paying a copay or coinsurance, these services are included in the membership cost. Today, concierge medicine is more accessible than ever as more families are able to not only afford the membership, but end up saving money in the long run. As more patients and physicians see the value of concierge primary care, this model will continue to rise in popularity. Let's take a look at the most common reasons primary care physicians decide to switch to concierge medicine. Why Physicians Switch to Concierge Primary Care To Provide Better Care Most primary care physicians prefer to provide patient-centered medical care. They want the care be on the patient's terms rather than deal with the barriers and constraints from insurance companies. Fortunately, this is now possible thanks to concierge primary care. Nearly 9 out of 10 physicians claimed this was a... --- - Published: 2020-05-09 - Modified: 2020-06-19 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/coronavirus-update/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: coronavirus, coronavirus doctor, coronavirus guide, coronavirus in the US, coronavirus information, coronavirus prevention, coronavirus symptoms, coronavirus testing, coronavirus tips, coronavirus update, covid-19 Coronavirus Update The latest coronavirus update including current status and prevention measures from the CDC, WHO, and top physicians and experts. This was last updated on May 9, 2020. We strive to include the most up-to-date and credible information. Because there are still some things we do not know about COVID-19, we will continue to make additions and revisions as more information comes to light. For quick access, bookmark this reference guide and check back often for new updates. What is COVID-19? Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China. The first case of COVID-19 in the United States was reported on January 21, 2020. How COVID-19 Spreads According to the CDC, the virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Recent studies indicate that people who are infected but do not have symptoms likely also play a role in the spread of COVID-19. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or... --- - Published: 2020-05-09 - Modified: 2020-06-19 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/private-practice-why-join-a-concierge-medicine-practice/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago doctor, Chicago medical practice, chicago practice, chicago private doctor, Chicago private practice, Chichago concierge practice, concierge doctor, concierge medicine, concierge practice, doctor near me, medical practice, personal doctor, private doctor, private practice, private practice near me Concierge medicine is a healthcare model that was created in the mid-1990s with the idea of providing more personalized medical attention. If you tend to go to a regular physician you may have already experienced long waiting times that would increase your frustration and anger, as well as short appointment times that were not enough to provide you individualized healthcare. If this is your case then concierge medicine is the ideal model for you. In this article, we are going to talk about the advantages a private practice has over traditional practices and why it works for both sick and healthy people. Benefits of Joining a Private Practice Longer appointments Concierge physicians limit the number of patients they see in order to provide longer appointments. This also ensures shorter wait times. The minimum appointment time of concierge doctors is at least 30 minutes for healthy patients. Long appointment times will help you to build a trustworthy relationship with your doctor, have better communication, and will allow your doctor to know you well. The feeling of being comfortable with your doctor is invaluable. By treating fewer patients concierge doctors ensure that all your health needs and concerns are addressed. This results in higher satisfaction and a better health outcome. More Access Apart from the short appointment times, it can take you a long time to schedule an appointment in the traditional medicine system but concierge medicine focuses on the patient's experience and provides quick-access healthcare. You can easily access your doctor... --- - Published: 2020-04-09 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/social-distancing-and-how-to-stay-connected/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: coronavirus, coronavirus guide, covid 19 social distancing, covid 2019, covid-19, novel coronavirus, physical distancing, social distancing, what is social distancing Research suggests that the rapid spread of COVID-19 is largely due to the movements of people who do not know they have contracted the virus. Either because they had mild symptoms or because they had no symptoms at all. Limiting face-to-face contact with others is the best way to reduce the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). For this reason, experts are recommending social distancing to "flatten the curve". Learn more about social distancing and how to stay connected amid COVID-19. What is Social Distancing? Social distancing is deliberately increasing the physical space between people to avoid spreading illness. Keeping at least six feet distance from other people lessens your chances of catching COVID-19. This is because COVID-19 spreads mainly among people who are in close contact. Social distancing can help slow down the spread of disease allowing the health care system to more readily care for patients over time. That is why it is such an important containment measure. Tips for Social Distancing One of the most effective ways to practice social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic is to stay home as much as possible. It is also best to not have visitors and visiting loved ones by electronic devices instead of in person. In addition to these, the CDC recommends the following tips: Follow guidance from authorities where you live. If you need to shop for food or medicine at the grocery store or pharmacy, stay at least 6 feet away from others. Use mail-order for medications, if... --- - Published: 2020-04-04 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/coronavirus-prevention/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: coronavirus, coronavirus guide, coronavirus information, coronavirus prevention, coronavirus status, coronavirus tips, covid-19, covid-19 tips, covid-19 update, prevent coronavirus The best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Learn what does and not work as coronavirus prevention. Basic Coronavirus Prevention: What Works Soap and Water Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with soap and water for 20-40 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer kills viruses that may be on your hands. Additionally, it is one of the most important steps you can take for coronavirus prevention to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to those around you. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Clean and Disinfect Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily for coronavirus prevention. This includes doorknobs, light switches, counters, tables, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and others. Use soap and water or cleaners appropriate for use on these surfaces. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the cleaning product. Social Distancing COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person. For this reason, maintain at least 6 feet distance between yourself and others if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick. When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you... --- - Published: 2020-04-04 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/home-exercises/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: best exercises, coronavirus, covid-19, exercise at home, exercises for beginners, health, home exercise, home exercises, home fitness, home fitness routine, home workout, social distancing, wellness As people are advised to stay home and gyms are being closed to limit the spread of the coronavirus, people are resorting to home exercises to stay healthy. Working out at home can be restrictive in terms of space and lack of equipment. However, home fitness can be every bit as effective as a gym workout if performed correctly and consistently. There are so many home exercises we can do without equipment. Examples of these exercises are push-ups, lunges, squats, planks, and yoga. Whether you are a gym enthusiast or you need a routine that will help you stay active and healthy while practicing social distancing, there are many home exercises to try. Before you begin, check with your doctor and ask if there are any precautions you should take. Home Exercises Social distancing is vital for you to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, you must stay active while at home to stay healthy. Unfortunately, many of us are struggling to keep up with our fitness routines and becoming sedentary. You can still workout and be active during this trying time by simply following the following routines. The home exercises listed below are incredibly easy and effective. Give them a try today! Push Ups Push-ups are one of the most effective bodyweight exercises around. And perfect form is essential. Start in a high plank position with your hands flat on the floor about shoulder-width apart, wrists stacked under your shoulders. Keeping your body in one long line... --- - Published: 2020-04-01 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/coronavirus-tips-covid-19/ - Categories: Coronavirus - Tags: CDC, coronavirus, coronavirus doctor, coronavirus guide, coronavirus symptoms, coronavirus testing, coronavirus tip, coronavirus tips, coronavirus update, coronavirus updates, covid-19, covid-19 tips, covid-19 update, WHO Accurate information from reliable sources can be hard to find if you do not know where to look. Misinformation about COVID-19 has gone viral on social media. Therefore adding to the confusion. If you are looking for coronavirus tips and facts, seek only reliable sources from health experts. Coronavirus Tips from Top Health Experts In this guide, we compile the most up-to-date information about COVID-19. As well as best practices to protect yourself from top health experts including physicians, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). This four-part series of coronavirus tips will cover what works and what doesn’t to protect against the virus. Additionally, how to stay active with home exercises and how to stay connected through social distancing. Lastly, updated information on everything we know about COVID-19 including symptoms to watch for and what actions to take if you are sick. COVID-19 Updates Find coronavirus tips and important information on COVID-19 from top health experts in our four-part guide. We strive to only include the most up-to-date and credible information. Because there are still some things we do not know about COVID-19, we will continue to make additions and revisions as more information comes to light. For quick access, bookmark this reference guide and check back often for new updates. Last updated in April 2020. Coronavirus Prevention: What Works and What Doesn’t Home Exercises Help You Stay Active and Healthy Social Distancing and How to Stay Connected COVID-19 Update: Everything We... --- - Published: 2020-03-30 - Modified: 2021-08-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/virtual-doctor-visits/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: healthcare, healthcare trends, live doctor, live doctor appointment, on demand doctor, telehealth, telemedicine, telemedicine services, video doctor, video doctor appointment, video doctor visit, video visist, virtual doctor, virtual doctor appointment, virtual doctor visit, virtual doctor visits The enormous advancement in videoconferencing technology over the last few years has made it possible for people to access this technology via PCs, smartphones, and tablets, something that was not possible after it went live. This technology has gone viral and is slowly replacing the routine patient visits to a physician in the health sector. Most people are now ditching regular visits for virtual visits due to the convenience it offers. Even though virtual doctor visits can not replace all-in office appointments, patients are embracing telemedicine in large numbers. Let's look at the benefits of virtual doctor visits: Safety With the current COVID-19 outbreak, opting for a virtual doctor visit can give patients peace of mind that they can receive the medical care they need without unnecessary risk of exposure. This is because video visits allow you to see your doctor without leaving the comfort and safety of your home. For this reason, telemedicine services have been more popular than ever before. Unfortunately, this has led to long waiting lines as popular telehealth providers are struggling to keep up with the demand. Because we are a concierge practice, our physicians have a much smaller patient panel. Therefore, we are able to provide our patients with on-demand care without the wait. These virtual visits will allow you to be evaluated with no interruption in care without having to travel to Dedication Health's Chicago concierge practice. Convenience Virtual doctor visits are convenient because they can be accessed from anywhere and at any... --- - Published: 2020-03-02 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/pulmonologist-near-me/ - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: chicago doctor, chicago internal medicine, chicago internist, Chicago Pulmonologist, internal medicine, internist, Local Pulmonologist, medical specialist, pulmonary care, pulmonary chicago, pulmonary disease, pulmonary doctor, pulmonary medicine, Pulmonary Medicine Near Me, pulmonologist, Pulmonologist Near Me A Pulmonologist, or respiratory system doctor, takes care of patients with breathing problems. They are medical specialists with training in diagnosing and treating lung ailments as well as issues that arise from respiratory difficulties. A Pulmonologist works in clinics, at hospitals, in trauma centers, and Intensive Care Units. Additionally, many work in an internal medicine practice such as Dedication Health. Many doctors and other medical providers consult with a Pulmonologist to help identify issues as well as to provide treatment regimens. Determine whether you should see a Pulmonologist from the information below. What Does a Pulmonologist Treat? A Pulmonologist provides treatment for lung and breathing disorders as well as for symptoms of associated problems due to respiratory difficulties. Pulmonary care patients receive care for: -Short-term and chronic care for patients with infections due to environmental, allergic, industrial, or other causes. -Damaged lung lining surfaces that reduce oxygenation of the blood caused by burning, chemical inhalation, or surgery. -Early diagnosis and treatment for cancer caused by smoking, industrial, environmental, or generational issues. In this situation, the Oncologist will often consult with your Pulmonologist. -Foreign objects lodged in the throat or lungs as well as treatment of growths impairing full respiratory function. -Infections and diseases that affect the membrane surrounding the lungs that make breathing painful and difficult. -Pre-surgery care, surgery, and post-surgical care for replacing a lung that has failed due to disease, cancer, or injury. -Diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular diseases and infections that cause loss of strength and function... --- - Published: 2020-02-28 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/on-demand-healthcare-concierge-medicine-benefits/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge healthcare, chicago doctor, chicago healthcare, concierge healthcare, concierge medical care, concierge medical care chicago, concierge medical services, concierge medicine, healthcare, on demand care, on demand doctor, on demand healthcare Concierge medicine practices are continually heightening their prominence today. There are many reasons for that, including the growing demand for immediate care. As you probably know, healthcare carries a great deal of significance in our lives. For this reason, having more access to doctors for quality healthcare services goes a long way in improving your health and wellness. This is where the concept of concierge medicine comes in. As a model of on demand healthcare, concierge medicine provides patients the opportunity to receive better healthcare services compared to the traditional model. Here are the benefits of on demand healthcare you should know about: On Demand Access to Your Doctor Contrary to the traditional model where a scheduled appointment with a doctor can take days to materialize, on demand healthcare grants patients faster access to physicians. Concierge medicine makes it possible for patients to see their doctor on demand. Instead of waiting for a long time to have your medical issue addressed, a concierge medical practice offers 24/7 access to your doctor via phone, email, and text. And most importantly, same- or next-day appointments. On demand healthcare means that your health is a priority. When you're sick or have a health concern you need addressed, you have fast and convenient access to a physician. Most offices, including Chicago concierge practice, Dedication Health, have no waiting times. Your appointment time is reserved for you, and is not time-restricted in the same way traditional doctor visits are. Building Trust and a Lasting Relationship... --- - Published: 2020-02-18 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/rheumatology-when-should-you-see-a-rheumatologist/ - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: chicago doctor, chicago Rheumatology, Good Rheumatologist, internal medicine, internist, Rheumatic, Rheumatologist, Rheumatologist near me, Rheumatology, Rheumatology chicago, Rheumatology near me, When Should You See a Rheumatologist Your health is one of the most crucial things that need care. It is, however, impossible to properly do that if you do not know what you are suffering from. A rheumatologist is a physician who is trained in the area of Rheumatology. This enables them to better diagnose, treat, and care for patients suffering from a variety of rheumatic diseases. If your joints, muscles, tendons, or bones are experiencing any issue in the form of swelling, deformity, discomfort, and stiffness, you should schedule an appointment with a doctor that specializes in Rheumatology. When To See a Rheumatologist Considering the vast scope of the work that they do, we have come up with a list of five times when you should see a rheumatologist. Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases There are more than a hundred conditions that fall under Rheumatology. For most people, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most known area of specialty for these practitioners. As there is no cure for RA, people with this condition should have regular checkups with a rheumatologist. However, a rheumatologist treats many more conditions. For instance, gout, lupus, chronic back pain, tendinitis, and osteoarthritis are also in their scope. As a rheumatologist specializes in these diseases, it is best to visit one as soon as possible if you show any symptoms for these conditions. Swelling Joints and Pain If you are experiencing either pain or swelling in multiple joints or the pain won’t go away no matter how long or what you do, it... --- - Published: 2020-02-01 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/what-is-a-concierge-doctor/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: a concierge medical practice, concierge doc, concierge doc chicago, concierge doc near me, concierge doctor, concierge doctor il, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine doctor, concierge medicine il, concierge physician, what is a concierge doc, what is a concierge doctor, what is a concierge physician Primary care is one of the most underrated fields of medicine, but with medicine concierge that is starting to change. If you have ever struggled to communicate with your doctor, or you are looking for more personalized care you should consider a concierge doctor. This new medical trend focuses on building a long-term relationship with the patient and providing 24/7 personalized care in or out of the office. What is a Concierge Doctor? This is a doctor that mainly focuses on preventative healthcare and provides a personalized health plan for each of his patients. This type of doctor limits the number of patients he sees to be able to provide longer appointments, 24-hour access through phone, text, and call. You will build a long-term relationship with your doctor in order to enjoy a customized preventative health plan. Benefits of Having a Concierge Doctor Longer Appointments The average traditional physician visit lasts around 18 minutes. With a concierge doctor, there isn't a limited time of visit. The appointment will last as long as needed for you to share your health problems and ask all the questions you want to. This is because a concierge doctor actually has time for their patient. Traditional doctors manage a few thousand patients often having to keep one eye on the patient and one eye on the clock. While concierge doctors only manage a few hundred patients, and are able to be attentive to them with longer, unrushed appointments. Easy to Communicate With Traditional doctors don't... --- - Published: 2020-01-05 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-internal-medicine/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine, Internal Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge, chicago internal medicine, concierge healthcare, concierge internal medicine, concierge internal medicine chicago, concierge internal medicine doctor, concierge internal medicine near me, concierge internist, concierge medicine, concierge medicine near me, internal medicine, internal medicine concierge Concierge medicine provides health care that assures truly individualized medical care and the personal attention of a trusted physician. Concierge internal medicine physicians chooses to limit the size of their practice. As a result, they can spend more time with each patient and provide prompt health care. They stay accessible even after hours. Benefits of Concierge Internal Medicine Concierge medicine provides many significant benefits. Concierge doctors provide enhanced care and increased access. Additionally, they make a commitment to limit patient loads to ensure adequate time and availability for each patient. Same-Day Appointments Rather than waiting days or weeks to see a doctor when you are sick, your concierge internist is available when you need him. You will be seen as early as the same day, for acute visits. Additionally, office visits start promptly. This allows more time to thoroughly address all of your questions and concerns at each visit. 24/7 Direct Communication Another benefit of concierge internal medicine is direct access to your doctor. You receive the comprehensive medical services of an internist from a physician who’s available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Therefore, you can reach your doctor by cell phone, email or text message after hours for urgent issues. Preventive Medicine and Wellness Concierge internal medicine gives ample time to focus on preventive measures and overall wellness. Which has proven to be one of the most effective models for maintaining health. We conduct a thorough assessment of your health which serves as the basis of... --- - Published: 2020-01-04 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/what-is-boutique-medicine-is-it-right-for-you/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: best doctor in chicago, boutique doctor, boutique doctor in chicago, boutique health, boutique medical, boutique medical practice, boutique medical service, boutique medical services in chicago, boutique medicine, boutique medicine chicago, boutique physician, boutique practice The experience of visiting a doctor has changed a lot over the years, and not all for the better. Today, face-to-face time with a doctor is often limited to 15 minutes or less. And during this time, doctors have one eye on the patient and one eye on the clock. These shorts visits have taken a toll on both doctors and their patients. For that reason, some primary care physicians and internists have made the move to a concierge model such as boutique medicine. What is Boutique Medicine? The essence of boutique medicine is a trusting physician-patient relationship, built over time, with a strong commitment to being fully present and attentive to the patient's concerns. While all boutique medical practices differ slightly, a concierge membership covers a wide range of health services and premium benefits. For example, Dedication Health provides primary and specialist care, and have a fully equipped lab on-site for expedited lab results. All of our patients have 24-hour access to their health providers through phone, text, and email. Additionally, our patients enjoy VIP perks including valet parking, private suites, same or next-day appointments, and virtually no waiting time. Boutique doctors limit the number of patients they see. As a result, they can provide enhanced access, longer appointments, and highly customized patient care. Who is a Boutique Membership For? Boutique medicine is gaining popular because it puts the patient in the driver's seat. Boutique medicine, often referred to as concierge medicine or membership healthcare, is ideal for anyone... --- - Published: 2019-12-14 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/coumadin-clinic/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: Anticoagulation Services, Cardiologist, cardiology, Chicago Clinic, Chicago Coumadin, chicago doctor, concierge clinic, concierge coumadin clinic, concierge medicine, Coumadin, Coumadin Clinic, Coumadin Clinic Chicago, Coumadin Management, internal medicine As a patient taking anticoagulants, you should be aware of the potential for very serious side effects that can occur if the medication is not properly monitored. Some of these side effects can be life-threatening. Studies have shown that patients enrolled in a Coumadin clinic, or anticoagulation clinic, have better INR control, better outcomes and fewer complications. What is a Coumadin Clinic? Coumadin clinics monitor and manage medication that prevent blood clots. Patients who have had heart valve replacements, had complicated surgeries, blood clots, or heart beat irregularities may be prescribed Coumadin or other blood thinners to help slow the blood clotting process. These medications, known as anticoagulants, are used to prevent major complications, such as vessel or valve obstruction, or strokes. A Coumadin clinic will answer your general questions and educate you on what you need to do while on Coumadin. Anticoagulation Services Regular blood testing and dose adjustments are necessary to avoid bleeding while still preventing undesired clotting. Some patients need frequent medication adjustments. That’s where the expertise of the Coumadin Clinic at Dedication Health comes in! Our Coumadin Clinic will perform weekly coagulation checks on-site with same day results. Our clinics are staffed by licensed nurse practitioners and pharmacists, as well as our internal medicine physicians. Chicago Coumadin Clinic As part of Dedication Health's commitment to the overall health and well-being of our patients, we are equipped to monitor and assist our patients who take blood-thinning medications. Our Coumadin care specialists provide you with the knowledge you... --- - Published: 2019-11-30 - Modified: 2019-11-30 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/what-makes-internal-medicine-doctors-different/ - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: concierge internal medicine, internal medicine, internal medicine doctor, internal medicine doctors, internist, internists In the ever-changing world of healthcare and medicine, the demand for specialists is very high. A specialist is a certified, highly skilled and dedicated physician who specializes in a particular area. Physicians specializing in internal medicine are called internists. Internists, or internal medicine doctors, are efficient to treat critically ill patients. They are often consulted by other physicians to seek guidance and clarification in their specialty area. The following guide provides you a brief overview of internal medicine and the roles of internists. It provides the benefits you get when treated with internal medicine. It will also explain how internal medicine differs from family medicine and when you need to consult an internist. What is Internal Medicine? Internal medicine is a type of specialist that treats a broad range of diseases and health problems of adults. Internal medicine doctors have a comprehensive scope to treat adults and adolescents over 16 years old. They have knowledge and expertise in simple and complex diseases as well. What Do Internists Treat? Internal medicine doctors are trained for assessment, diagnosis, treatment for a broad range of illnesses and disease. They have the capability to treat even significantly ill patients. Internists are highly skilled physicians with expert knowledge in a particular area of specialization such as Pulmonary Medicine or Cardiology in addition to primary care. When Should I Consult an Internist? An internist provides intensive and effective care in any one area of specialization. You can consult an internist for the following type of treatment.... --- - Published: 2019-11-24 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-practice-near-me-concierge-medicine-in-cook-county/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge doctor, concierge doctor near me, concierge doctors chicago, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, Concierge Medicine Evanston, Concierge Medicine Lake Bluff, Concierge Medicine Mount Prospect, concierge medicine near me, Concierge Medicine Northbrook, Concierge Medicine Skokie, concierge physician, concierge practice, concierge practice near me, hybrid concierge medicine chicago Concierge doctors limit the number of patients they see. As a result, they can provide enhanced access, longer appointments, and highly customized patient care. If you're searching for a "concierge practice near me", you've come to the right place. Dedication Health is Cook County's preferred concierge healthcare provider. We are dedicated to quality care that puts the focus back on you with more time, enhanced service and improved convenience. As a member you get same day visits and 24-hour text or email access. In addition, you have as much time as needed with your personal doctor with every visit. Top Medical Concierge Practice Near Me Concierge Medicine Chicago Conveniently located in Chicago's North Shore, Dedication Health is Chicago's premier concierge medicine practice. Our Chicago doctors are board-certified in Internal Medicine, Rheumatology, Pulmonary Disease, Critical Care Medicine, and Geriatric Medicine. Therefore, if you're searching for a concierge practice near you with top-rated doctors, join Dedication Health. Get directions from Chicago. Concierge Medicine Evanston Our concierge medical practice, Dedication Health, is a mere 5 miles North of Evanston. Many of our patients and staff are from Evanston. In fact, Dr. Santiago Candocia served as Chief Resident in Medicine at Evanston Hospital before becoming a physician at our concierge practice. Get directions from Evanston. Concierge Medicine Skokie Skokie residents choose Dedication Health as their concierge medical practice. Our concierge physicians help you achieve optimal health and well-being through wellness coaching, disease prevention and management, and world-class medical care. Dedication Health is about a... --- - Published: 2019-11-19 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/sustainable-new-years-resolutions-for-a-healthy-2020/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: 2020, 2020 new year, 2020 new year's resolutions, health, healthy, healthy 2020, healthy new year, healthy new year's resolutions, healthy new year's resolutions 2020, new year's resolutions, sustainable new year's resolutions New Year's is an opportunity to recommit to your health and well-being: Eat better. Exercise regularly. Drink more water. Changing your habits, no matter how well-meaning, is hard. And if you're looking for New Year's resolution ideas you can actually stick to, consider looking past the big, obvious ones and and seek ones that may seem smaller, but will have a big impact in the long run. Here are some tips to stay healthy in 2020 with sustainable new year's resolutions. Sustainable New Year's Resolutions Are Quantifiable Goals A common mistake people make is setting vague goals like, “I’ll be healthier”. Instead, make your resolution specific, with a tangible, achievable outcome. A few examples of specific and sustainable new year's resolutions would be "drink 8 glasses of water every day", "get 7 hours of sleep every night", "wear sunscreen every time I plan on spending more than 30 minutes outside", or "meditate for 30 minutes every weekend to relieve stress". These goals, while small, can add up to make a big impact and help you become healthier. Eat Better If you want to eat better in 2020, determine how you plan to do so with smaller and sustainable new year's resolutions. For example, "eat at least two fruits a day", "limit soda intake to 1 can a day", or "meal prep each week". These smalls goals are easier to stick with it, and can help you eat better and improve health overall. Exercise Regularly When setting exercise-related and sustainable new... --- - Published: 2019-11-03 - Modified: 2019-11-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-doctor-in-chicago-coordinates-care-for-patient/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago, concierge doctor, concierge doctor in chicago, concierge healthcare, concierge medicine, Concierge medicine in chiago, coordination of care, Dr. Candocia, Dr. Santiago Candocia, internal medicine, internal medicine doctor, internal medicine in chicago, specialist care, specialist care in chicago, specialist care near me Dr. Santiago Candocia takes pride in being a concierge doctor in Chicago and advocate for his patients. By offering an enhanced suite of services that include same-day appointments, 24-hour access to physicians, preventive health and wellness advice, and coordination of specialist care, concierge physicians at Dedication Health can spend more time with their patients and provide what they describe as more in-depth, higher quality health care. Along with providing high-quality health care, Dr. Candocia serves as a patient advocate with outside specialists and hospitals. "Working in a Concierge style practice allows me the time to look for solutions to problems that are not offered by other specialists. I can refer anywhere in the country and look for the best of the best when a unique problem arises,” explains Dr. Candocia. This coordination of care can be life-saving for patients with complicated conditions. Patient with Rare Disease Seeks Help At 17, Michael Ambrose was a high school student in Chicago that came down with what he thought was a nasty case of stomach flu. After visiting several doctors, all of whom had difficulty determining the cause, Michael's case became a subject at medical conferences as his physicians strived to solve the mystery. After a colonoscopy and genetic testing, Micheal finally got answers. He was diagnosed with a rare hereditary disease called juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS), as well as a rare blood disorder called hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). The disease severely impacted Michael's life. He had endoscopies and colonoscopies every six months,... --- - Published: 2019-10-27 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/health-concierge-membership-pros-cons/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: benefits of concierge medicine, boutique doctor, boutique doctors, chicago concierge doctor, Chicago concierge medical practice, chicago concierge medicine, concierge care, concierge doctor, concierge doctors, concierge health, concierge health care, concierge healthcare, concierge medical, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine benefits, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine near me, health concierge, health concierge membership Imagine being able to reach a primary care doctor any time you want. A personal doctor who knows your entire medical history; answers your emails, texts, and phone calls 24/7; and gives you same-day appointments when you’re sick. And all for a flat fee that is generally less than the cost of a cup of coffee a day. If this speaks to you, here's what you should know about the pros and cons of a health concierge membership. The Problem with Traditional Healthcare The current healthcare system has become transactional and impersonal. Due to diminishing financial margins in the healthcare industry, there is unprecedented pressure on physicians to minimize patient visit times and employ an assembly-line approach to patient care. Patient satisfaction is dropping after long waiting times and little fact-to-face time with their doctor. While physicians, whose eyes are forced to be on the computer and the clock, are experiencing "doctor burnout" by the revolving door of patients and endless administrative burdens. Quantity Care vs. Quality Care Caring for patients requires a more holistic approach than seeing patients as computer checkoffs. Medical offices need to focus on the patient who has the symptoms, not just the symptoms the patient has. This is why many doctors are opting out of high pressure, volume-driven medicine and choosing to open boutique concierge practices which feature low patient counts, 24/7 physician availability, personalized care, and a health concierge membership system. By doing so, concierge doctors are able to get away from "quantity medicine"... --- - Published: 2019-10-21 - Modified: 2019-10-21 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/chicago-internal-medicine/ - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: chicago internal medicine, chicago internist, concierge internal medicine, concierge internal medicine doctor, concierge internist, concierge medicine, internal medicine, internal medicine chicago, internal medicine doctor, internal medicine near me, internist chicago, internist near me Whether you’re simply seeking preventive medical care to protect your health, or you need ongoing care for a chronic condition, Dedication Health’s Chicago internal medicine services can provide you with comprehensive solutions. Our internists use the latest medical technology to treat conditions from diabetes to lung or heart disease. Our Chicago internal medicine doctors include Dr. John Croghan, Dr. Philip Sheridan Jr. , Dr. Santiago Candocia, and Dr. Richard Stern. Chicago Internal Medicine Doctors Dedication Health’s Chicago internal medicine doctors, also referred to as internists, begin seeing patients at age 16. Our physicians are board-certified in internal medicine and have special training that focuses on the prevention and treatment of adult and adolescent conditions. We give patients regular physical examinations, offer preventive care, and diagnose and treat most illnesses. Additionally, we have medical specialists and a fully equipped lab on-site. Our doctors also coordinate care with hospitals or other specialists for serious or unusual cases if needed. What are Internists? Internists are specialists who have the training and expertise to diagnose and treat adults across the spectrum from primary care to complex illness. Internists are sometimes referred to as the "doctor's doctor," because they are often called upon to act as consultants to other physicians to help solve puzzling diagnostic problems. Some internists choose to take additional training to sub-specialize in more focused areas of internal medicine. For instance, the concierge internists at Dedication Health have received further training for sub-specialties including cardiology, endocrinology, travel medicine, rheumatology, and pulmonary medicine.... --- - Published: 2019-10-07 - Modified: 2020-08-11 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/staying-active-as-you-age-exercises-for-older-adults/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: aging, best exercises, chicago, concierge medicine, exercise for aging, exercise for older adults, exercise for seniors, geriatrics, health, health and wellness, healthcare, staying active, staying active as you age, staying healthy, tips to stay active, wellness Studies have shown that physical activity is one of the biggest contributors to longevity, adding extra years to your life—even if you don’t start exercising until your later years. But staying active as you age is not just about adding years to your life, it’s about adding life to your years. There are many reasons why we tend to slow down and become more sedentary with age. It may be due to health problems, weight or pain issues, or worries about injuries. But as you grow older, an active lifestyle becomes more important than ever to your health. Benefits of Staying Active As You Age Being active can help boost your energy, maintain your independence, protect your heart, and manage symptoms of illness or pain. Additionally, physical activity can ward off diseases such as diabetes or obesity. Regular exercise is also beneficial for your mind, mood, confidence, memory, and overall well-being. However, before you start exercising, consult your doctor to know the type of exercises you can engage in and what is too much. This is crucial for patients with heart disease, diabetes, or other health conditions. How Often Should I Exercise? Older adults should aim for at least 2 hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate-intensity exercise. If you weren't physically active before, start slowly. Even 5 minutes of physical activity a day has health benefits. You can build up to more over time. Best Exercises for Staying Active As You Age Endurance /Aerobic Activities Aerobic activities that... --- - Published: 2019-09-27 - Modified: 2020-10-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/6-health-tips-doctors-want-you-to-know/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: chicago doctor, chicago health, doctor heath tips, doctor in chicago, doctor near me, doctor recommended health tips, health tip, health tips If anyone knows how to get healthy and stay healthy, it's your doctor. Whether your concern is weight loss, disease prevention, or just maintaining overall well-being, MDs are your go-to for everything centered around your health. Use personal strategies and insider health tips from the best physicians to supercharge your health this year. 6 Doctor-Recommended Health Tips Get a head start on these invaluable health tips for a healthier you this year and beyond. Find an Active Hobby You Enjoy The first of our health tips is to fit exercise into your routine in a way that’s enjoyable to you. Fitness hobbies such as swimming, bicycling, dancing, or golfing can help you stay active. Physical activity and exercise can have immediate and long-term health benefits. Most importantly, regular activity can improve your quality of life. However, you should always consult with your doctor before making any major changes to your fitness routine. Stock Your House with Healthy Food Stocking your pantry and fridge with nourishing food staples is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stick to healthy eating. That's because a house stocked with nutritious ingredients is the best way to ensure you'll have everything you need to make a healthy and flavorful dinner every night, even on the busiest weeks when stopping at the grocery store just isn't realistic. Know Your Health Baseline Next on our list of doctor-recommended health tips is to know your health baseline. Visit your doctor regularly, so you know your numbers... --- - Published: 2019-08-17 - Modified: 2020-06-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-doctors-do-4-things-differently/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: benefits of concierge medicine, chicago concierge doctor, Chicago concierge medical practice, chicago concierge medicine, chicago doctor, chicago physicians, concierge care, concierge doctor, concierge doctors, concierge health care, concierge medica l var, concierge medical, concierge medical doctor, concierge medical doctors, concierge medical practice, concierge medical services, concierge medicine, concierge medicine benefits, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine doctor, concierge medicine in Chicago, concierge medicine near me, concierge medicine practice, concierge physicians, concierge practice Despite common frustrations with the primary care experience, many people don’t know an alternative exists in concierge medicine. With a smaller patient roster and more attention from their primary care provider, the patient experience improves, sometimes dramatically. At a typical concierge practice, concierge medicine doctors offer their patients same-day or next-day appointments, comprehensive screenings, diagnostic services and 24/7 physician access. How Are Concierge Medicine Doctors Different? Patients in a concierge practice appreciate the immediate access to their physician by cell phone, e-mail, and same-day appointments, and minimal waiting time in private, pleasant waiting rooms. Concierge medicine doctors limit the number of patients they see. As a result, they can provide enhanced access, longer appointments, and highly customized patient care. Here is what you need to know about concierge medicine doctors, and what makes them different. Your concierge doctor will see you ASAP. Concierge medicine doctors can see you sooner for standard appointments, and within 24 to 48 hours for sick visits. This means no more waiting for weeks for an acute illness, waiting hours in the waiting room prior to being seen or having many questions after a 5-minute doctor visit. You’ll get same day visits, phone and video visits, questions answered by text or email, and as much time with your personal doctor as needed for every visit. Concierge medicine doctors build trusting relationships with their patients. The opportunity to build a relationship with a doctor is a top selling point. In contrast to the high-touch concierge approach, the... --- - Published: 2019-06-10 - Modified: 2021-08-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medical-services-geriatric-primary-care-specialty-care/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago doctor, chicago doctors, chicago geriatric, chicago internal medicine, chicago physicians, chicago primary care, concierge doctor, concierge group, concierge health, concierge healthcare, concierge medical group, concierge medical practice, concierge medical services, concierge medical services chicago, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine near me, concierge practice, concierge primary care, concierge services, cosierge medicine, geriatric, geriatric doctor, internal medicine, internist, medical concierge, membership healthcare, primary care doctor, primary care near me, pulmonary, specialist care If you want more personalized care from your physician, concierge medicine is the perfect solution! As a concierge medical practice, Dedication Health takes the time to build strong and enduring relationships with each patient. We use that insight to create an individual personal health plan for a healthy and fulfilling life. You can take comfort in knowing your doctor is dedicated to delivering the highest quality healthcare, and personalized medical concierge services for your health. Medical Concierge Services Concierge medicine, also known as boutique medicine, is an alternative to the typical “fee-for-service” doctor’s office. Rather than pay a fee each time you visit your physician, medical concierge services require a reasonable membership fee. These membership fees provide access to enhanced medical services and exclusive benefits. A concierge medicine membership works well for people with existing medical conditions that see their doctor regularly. Healthy individuals looking to maintain their health and prevent disease also benefit from concierge healthcare. Your membership fee can cover things such as office visits, wellness exams, basic office procedures, most in-office tests and injections, and 24/7 access to your doctor. While every concierge practice is different, the medical concierge services offered by our concierge practice are outlined below. Primary Care and Preventative Care Concierge primary care puts you in charge of your health by providing unparalleled communication and convenience with your healthcare team — online and in person. It’s the day-to-day healthcare you rely on from your primary care physician, plus a whole lot more. Concierge primary... --- - Published: 2019-05-28 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-family-medicine-3-invaluable-benefits-concierge-medicine/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge doctor, concierge family medicine, concierge health, concierge healthcare, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine insurance, concierge medicine near me, concierge medicine practice, concierge membership, concierge physician, doctor on demand, family doctor, family medicine, health membership, health plan, is concierge medicine worth it, membership healthcare, personal doctor, personalized healthcare, preventative care, primary care doctor, primary care physician, private doctor Concierge medicine, or concierge family medicine, is a private form of healthcare in which physicians charge their patients an out-of-pocket retainer or membership fee in exchange for full, immediate access to their services. As well as perks such as same-day appointments, 24-hour access to medical attention via cellphone or email, and an unrestricted amount of time visiting their personal doctor. All of these unique perks are covered with their concierge healthcare membership. Concierge physicians who operate under this structure maintain a much smaller pool of clients. Typically around a few hundred versus several thousand in a traditional family practice. Is a Concierge Health Membership Worth It? Concierge medicine continues to grow in popularity. Those considering it for themselves and their family tend to have one major question in mind. "Is concierge medicine worth it? " While concierge medicine used to only be accessible for the wealthy, these days concierge membership fees are reasonable and accessible for most families. In fact, some concierge practices such as Dedication Health in Chicago can even work with your insurance. For approximately the cost of a cup of coffee per day, individuals and families are able to take advantage of all the value concierge medicine offers. 3 Priceless Concierge Medicine Benefits There are many benefits of concierge medicine, such as same-day appointments and 24-hour access to your personal doctor as mentioned above. However, there are many more unique benefits that concierge healthcare offers that most traditional family practices cannot. These include longer face-to-face time with... --- - Published: 2019-05-26 - Modified: 2019-05-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/imaging-radiology-chicago/ - Categories: Imaging and Radiology - Tags: chicago imaging, chicago radiologist, chicago radiology, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, ct scan, diagnostic imaging, diagnostic radiology, imaging, imaging and radiology, imaging center, imaging chicago, imaging in chicago, imaging near me, imaging services, imaging tech, medical imaging, radiologist, radiology, radiology center, radiology chicago, radiology near me, radiology services, radiology tech, x ray Dedication Health’s radiology service is unlike any other medical imaging service in Chicago, and you'll know it the minute you walk through the door. As a leading concierge medicine provider, we ensure you are informed and comfortable. When you join our concierge practice, enjoy complimentary valet parking and private suites with slippers and a blanket waiting for you. Dedication Health is a full-service concierge medical practice with services including primary care, travel medicine, imaging and radiology. Full-Service Medical Practice With On-Site Radiology Technicians Our highly-qualified radiology technicians are standing by so you can get the right answers, right away. Rather than being referred out for imaging and radiology services, we have on-site technicians ready to perform same-day tests. The next step is professional test interpretation by a team of radiologists that quickly generate final medical reports. Having an on-site radiology team also allows the ability to perform additional testing - on the spot - if needed. Dedication Health goes above and beyond to make sure you get the best, most precise imaging services available. State-of-the-Art Imaging Suite and Equipment Your test will be performed on the latest generation of digital imaging equipment. This means less discomfort and less difficulty positioning your body for optimum results. It also means fewer re-takes and exceptional image clarity and resolution. Our imaging suite is fully equipped with all new state-of-the-art Siemens Digital X-ray, Siemens CT scanner and EKG Machine. You will receive fast and accurate results with our convenient on-site radiology services. Imaging and... --- - Published: 2019-05-23 - Modified: 2019-05-23 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/how-do-i-find-concierge-doctors-near-me/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge doctor, concierge doctor in chicago, concierge doctor near me, concierge doctor review, concierge doctors, concierge doctors chicago, concierge doctors cook county, concierge doctors near chicago, concierge doctors near cook county, concierge doctors near me, concierge doctors near you, concierge medicine, concierge medicine doctors, doctors near chicago, doctors near me, find a doctor, find concierge doctors, find doctors near me, top rated concierge doctor Searching For Concierge Doctors Near Me It's not always easy to find reliable, easy-to-understand information about specific doctors or practices. However, there are effective strategies and helpful resources you can use to find a new doctor in your area. When searching for good concierge doctors near you, here is what to focus on in your search and where to go for the information you need. Read Patient Reviews on Concierge Doctors Near You Patients put a lot of trust in unbiased reviews and opinions from other patients when choosing a doctor. In fact, research shows that 77% of patients use online reviews as the first step in finding a new physician. When searching for concierge doctors near you, use popular public review sites including Google, Healthgrades, and Vitals to find top rated primary care physicians and concierge doctors near you. Check For Board Certification Being certified through the American Board of Medical Specialties means a doctor has earned a medical degree from a qualified medical school, completed three to seven years of accredited residency training, is licensed by a state medical board, and has passed one or more exams administered by a member of the ABMS. To maintain the certification, a doctor is expected to participate in continuing education. To see whether a doctor is certified, go to certificationmatters. org. Consider Compatibility More than 50% of Americans focus on personality and relationship when choosing a physician, according to a 2014 survey from The Associated Press and the NORC Center for... --- - Published: 2019-05-22 - Modified: 2019-05-22 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/medicine-reconciliation/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: ADEs, chicago medical reconciliation, chicago medicine reconciliation, concierge healthcare, concierge medical, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, healthcare, medication, medication reconciliation, Medication Reconciliation Services, medicine reconciliation, patient safery, patient safety, pharmacy, prescriptions, reconcile medications, reconcile medicine, What is Medicine Reconciliation, Why is Medicine Reconciliation Important Medication errors have been shown to be the most common type of errors affecting patient safety. In fact, preventable adverse drug events are associated with one out of five injuries or deaths. Preventing harm from medications, or adverse drug events (ADEs), remains a top patient safety priority. Medicine reconciliation is an effective tool for for preventing ADEs and improving patient safety. The essence of medication reconciliation is making sense of a patient’s medications and resolving conflicts between different sources of information. As a result, healthcare providers are able to minimize harm and to maximize therapeutic effects. Learn more about medicine reconciliation below. What is Medicine Reconciliation? Medication reconciliation is the process of creating the most accurate list possible of all medications a patient is taking including drug name, dosage, frequency, and route. Then comparing that list against the physician’s admission, transfer, and/or discharge orders. The goal of medication reconciliation is to provide correct medications to the patient. Proper medication reconciliation is necessary to avoid medication errors such as omissions, duplication, dosing errors, or drug–drug interactions. Why is Medicine Reconciliation Important? Medicine Reconciliation arose as the solution to the well-documented patient safety problem of unintentionally introducing changes in patients' medication regimens due to incomplete or inaccurate medication information at transitions in care. National patient safety initiatives have increased the importance of medicine reconciliation as the Institute of Medicine has found that poor communication of medical information at transition points is responsible for as many as 50 percent of all medication errors... --- - Published: 2019-05-13 - Modified: 2019-05-13 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/primary-care-physician-near-me-chicago/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: best concierge doctors, best doctor, best doctor in chicago, chicago concierge medicine, chicago doctor, chicago physician, chicago physicians, chicago primary care, concierge doctors, concierge healthcare, concierge medicine, concierge medicine cook county, concierge medicine near me, cook county doctor, elite doctor, mdvip, membership healthcare, pcp, primary care, primary care concierge, primary care physician, primary care physician near me, top doctor, vip doctor Find a Top Rated Primary Care Physician in Chicago Dedication Health is a concierge medicine practice in Chicago's North Shore. At Dedication Health, we believe that all individuals should have access to high-quality and personalized healthcare. But when one steps into a traditional doctor's office, the opposite is usually found: long waiting lines, limited face-to-face time with a primary care physician, referral hassles, and limited availability. This is why many primary care physicians and patients are making the switch to a better, more convenient healthcare model: concierge medicine. Dedication Heath's concierge health membership provides patients with 24-hour access to their top rated primary care physician, same day appointments, and an unrestricted amount of time with their concierge doctor. Learn more about Chicago's top rated concierge primary care physicians at Dedication Health below. Dr. John E. Croghan John E. Croghan, MD is one of the top rated primary care physicians in Chicago. Dr. Croghan is triple board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology and Geriatric Medicine. Dr. Croghan is a concierge doctor, rheumatologist, and founder at Dedication Health. Dr. John Croghan has an average rating of 4. 8 out of 5 from Vitals, Google, and Healthgrades. "I started Dedication Health to offer innovative, personalized primary care medical service and convenience to my patients. The high-volume and impersonal nature of today’s medical system simply does not offer what each patient fully deserves. " - John E. Croghan, MD Patient Reviews "Dr Croghan is truly 1 in a million in... --- - Published: 2019-04-24 - Modified: 2019-04-24 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/why-concierge-medicine/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge, chicago concierge doctor, chicago concierge practice, concierge care chicago, concierge doctor, concierge medical, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine near me, is concierge medicine, why choose concierge medicine, why concierge medicine, why concierge medicine is right If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Why concierge medicine? ” the answer is different for everyone. It’s a very personal choice that each person has to make on his or her own, but we’ll outline the top four reasons most people make the switch below. 1) You Want a Relationship with Your Physician In this day and age, many practices offer “cookie-cutter” care. In other words, a visit to the doctor is like going down an assembly line. Your doctor reviews your chart, asks you if there have been any changes, and then sends you on your way with a new round of prescriptions. He doesn’t really know who you are. And, if he doesn’t actually know who you are, how can he possibly know what’s best for you? That’s what makes concierge medicine so different. Physicians limit the number of patients in their practice and limit the number of people they see each day, so they can build real relationships with the people they treat. Your visits are unrushed and you can ask as many questions as you need. 2) You Want to Focus on Total Wellness Traditional medical practices focus on sick care, and some of this is the byproduct of having so little time at each visit. The doctor only treats the most urgent and pressing need at each visit, and that means he could be missing some underlying issue that could solve a problem for good. With concierge medicine, your physician talks with you about your lifestyle... --- - Published: 2019-04-08 - Modified: 2019-04-08 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/cook-county-health-care-concierge-medicine-chicagoland/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicagoland, chicagoland concierge medicine, chicagoland doctor, concierge care, concierge health, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine chicagoland, concierge medicine in cook county, concierge medicine near me, cook county, cook county concierge, cook county concierge medicine, cook county doctor, cook county health, cook county health care, cook county healthcare, cook county illinois, doctor in cook county, healthcare Dedication Health is Cook County's premier concierge medicine practice. At Dedication Health, patients enjoy 24-hour access to their concierge doctors who take the time to understand fully their individual conditions and histories. With same-day appointments, little to no wait times, and longer appointment duration, there is more of an opportunity to build a trusting and long-term relationship. These are just some of the many benefits of joining a concierge medicine practice. Learn more about Cook County health memberships from Dedication Health below. Cook County Health Membership Concierge Medicine is a form of membership healthcare in which the doctor provides personalized, accessible care. Concierge doctors limit patient loads to ensure adequate time and availability for each patient. Patients invest in concierge medicine and a Cook County health membership for on-demand health care and unfettered access to their personal doctor. Concierge doctors have fewer patients, but spend more time addressing medical concerns and preventing disease among their set of patients. Concierge health memberships generally provide patients with 24/7 access, a cell phone number to connect directly with their physician, same-day appointments, visits that last as long as it takes to address their needs and varying other amenities. Cook County Concierge Doctors Most people make an appointment with their doctor when they are sick or need a prescription refill. They go through the hassle of making an appointment weeks or even months in advance. Because concierge doctors have fewer patients, they can see their patients more often and for longer periods of time.... --- - Published: 2019-03-29 - Modified: 2019-03-29 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/hybrid-concierge-medicine/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: conciege medicine, concierge doctor, concierge doctor near me, concierge doctors chicago, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine near me, concierge medicine practice, hybrid concierge, hybrid concierge medicine, hybrid concierge medicine chicago, what is concierge medicine, what is hybrid concierge medicine The term “concierge medicine” is still emerging, and each office offers something a little different in this respect. On top of this, we now have “hybrid concierge medicine” as well. So, what is hybrid concierge medicine? On this page, we’ll explore what both terms mean, as well as how each differs from what you may be accustomed to at a traditional doctor’s office. What You Can Expect from a Traditional Practice Traditional practices are more or less the standard these days. An average family physician is likely to have more than 2,000 patients in all. Although he probably won’t see all of them in any given year, the number of active patients is still fairly high, and that’s why it’s notoriously difficult to get in to see most doctors, as well as why visits seem so rushed. There are two major reasons why this is happening today. First, there is a shortage of doctors in the country, and the patients have to go somewhere. Second, insurance companies have changed the dynamics of a traditional practice. They’ve limited procedures, reduced payments, and make it difficult for doctors to uphold quality of care. In order to stay afloat, most offices increase how many patients they see. What is Concierge Medicine? Concierge medicine, by the strictest standard, is basically having your physician on call. Your concierge doctor only sees a few patients each day. Instead of having a couple thousand patients in total, he may have a couple hundred. This is a beautiful... --- - Published: 2019-03-11 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/disease-prevention-concierge-medicine/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge, chicago doctor, chicago primary care, concierge care, concierge doctor, concierge medicine, concierge medicine advantages, concierge medicine benefits, concierge medicine practice, concierge physician, conicerge healthcare, disease prevention, disease prevention chicago, preventative health, preventative health care Concierge medicine is transforming the healthcare landscape of modern-day treatment with its emphasis on patient-focused healthcare, disease prevention, and personalized attention. While there are many advantages to concierge medicine including same-day appointments and on-site specialist care, arguably the most important is the focus on preventative health. Chronic diseases are the leading causes of death and disability. However, according to the World Health Organization, 80% of chronic diseases are preventable. This is why disease prevention and having a personal doctor you can trust is more important than ever. Disease Prevention with Concierge Medicine The goal with disease prevention and concierge medicine is always to optimize health and reverse or prevent chronic disease. Chronic diseases —including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer— account for some of the most common health problems in the United States, according to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Yet many of these chronic diseases are preventable with better lifestyle habits and preventative care. The CDC reports some sobering statistics about Americans: Chronic diseases are the leading causes of death and disability. 70% of annual deaths are due to chronic diseases. These preventable conditions do not only compromise quality of life. They add to rising health care costs—75% of our health care dollars are devoted to treat these diseases. Concierge Medicine Provides Better Overall Health Outcomes Concierge medicine enables the physician to focus primary concern and attention on disease prevention, and to better manage health and wellness to optimal levels. A study measuring the... --- - Published: 2019-02-23 - Modified: 2019-02-23 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/doctor-on-demand/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: 24 hour access to doctor, 24/7 access to doctor, around the clock doctor, chicago concierge medicine, concierge doctor, concierge doctor chicago, concierge health care, concierge health membership, concierge healthcare, concierge medicine, concierge medicine benefits, doctor off hours, doctor on demand, health membership, on demand doctor At a time when in-and-out appointments are a financial necessity for most physicians, Dedication Health and a growing number concierge medicine practices are maximizing their time to provide patients with enhanced access. By keeping their patient count low, concierge doctors have the opportunity to better serve their patients. At Dedication Health, patients enjoy 24-hour access to their concierge doctors who take the time to understand fully their individual conditions and histories. With same-day appointments, little to no wait times, and longer appointment duration, there is more of an opportunity to build a trusting and long-term relationship. Having a concierge doctor on demand is just one of the many benefits of joining a concierge medicine practice. What Does It Mean to Have a Doctor on Demand? With a concierge doctor on demand, patients can be assured that their healthcare issues will be addressed efficiently and effectively. No matter where or when they occur. Concierge medicine is all about enhanced access and personalized and on-demand care. Enhancing patient access to care is essential for improving patient outcomes, improving patient experience and reducing healthcare costs. Whether you need to see your primary care physician, want to see a specialist, or require same day care, a concierge health membership works for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Benefit of Having More Time With Your Doctor Doctors want more time with their patients. But with all of the paperwork and regulation they must deal with under a traditional healthcare model, they... --- - Published: 2019-02-07 - Modified: 2019-02-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-is-no-longer-for-the-wealthy/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago doctor, concierge care, concierge medicine, concierge medicine affordable, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine is, concierge medicine myth, concierge medicine near me, concierge medicine wealthy, concierge medicine worth it, doctor is in, the doctor is in, the doctor is in copay 40000, the times, times If you read the headlines, it’s easy to be misled, but concierge medicine is no longer for the wealthy. Recently, the Times drug readers in with their sensational story “The Doctor Is In. Co-Pay? $40,000,” and while things like this are and can be true, they’re not the whole story at all. There are many concierge medical practices, including Dedication Health in Chicago, that offer affordable membership fees and even accept insurance. Why People Think Concierge Medicine is for the Wealthy The earliest concierge-style models emerged many years ago, and they did indeed cater to an elite class. These physicians performed house calls and offered a number of perks, but also didn’t accept insurance at all. At the same time, TV shows like “Royal Pains” sensationalized the practice, making it seem like all concierge physicians lived in the Hamptons and only treated ultra-high net worth folks. There are physicians still operating this way. “A successful internist in New York or San Francisco might earn $200,000 to $300,000 per year,” according to a doctor interviewed by the Times, “but Private Medical pays $500,000 to $700,000 annually for the right practitioner. ” The money doesn’t materialize out of thin air. It’s the patients paying those salaries, divvied up among as few as 50 patients. Concierge medicine also has a distant cousin, referred to as “direct pay” or a similar variant. Under this model, physicians don’t accept insurance at all. Patients must pay entirely out-of-pocket. While it does share some characteristics with the... --- - Published: 2019-01-27 - Modified: 2019-01-27 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/specialist-care-doctor-types/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: concierge doctor, doctor specialty, endocrinology specialist, geriatrics specialist, medical services, medical specialist, pulmonary specialist, specialist, specialist care, specialist care near me, specialist near me Specialist Care: How Do I Find a Medical Specialist Near Me? A specialist is a doctor who, as the name implies, specializes in a particular type of medicine, like Cardiovascular Medicine, Endocrinology, or Geriatrics. Knowing which medical specialist is right for which ailment often requires time, research, and expertise. Use this guide below to determine which type of specialist care you need. Why Look for Internal Medicine? Internal medicine is a branch devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of internal diseases and disorders in adults. Internists go through 1-3 years of additional schooling in order to be able to hold the title. You may find general internists who diagnose and treat any number of conditions as well as sub-specialists who focus on a specific area of the body. Internists sometimes provide general care, though they typically run specialty practices. Primary care physicians consult with them when they’ve got a particularly challenging case or they may refer their patients to an internist for a specific type of specialist care. How Do I Find a Specialist Near Me? Usually, your primary care physician is a good place to start. Because primary care physicians refer to them as needed, yours probably already knows a handful he trusts. While you may be able to find a physician by searching for the type of medicine he or she specializes in, sometimes internists are only listed by their formal specialties or proper titles. You can use the chart below to determine which type of doctor you’re... --- - Published: 2019-01-11 - Modified: 2019-01-11 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/personal-doctor-prolong-life/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: best doctor in chicago, chicago doctors, chicago physicians, concierge doctors, concierge medicine, concierge physicians, find a doctor, personal doctor, personal doctor chicago, personal doctors, personal physician, personal physician chicago, primary doctor, primary physician, see same doctor, seeing same doctor A new study appearing in BMJ Journals highlights the importance of finding a personal doctor you feel comfortable with and staying with them. The paper, called “Continuity of care with doctors—a matter of life and death? ” was designed to explore whether or not there is a correlation between positive health outcomes and the receipt of continuity of physician care. Researchers examined data from 22 studies published between 1996 and 2017 to identify patterns in care and outcomes. What makes this study so unique, however, is that it compiles data from several countries, multiple models of care, and both primary and specialty care, meaning it provides a snapshot unlike any previous study has. Follow-Up Visits Define Continuity of Care The study looked at existing research papers which specifically measured things like whether a person’s primary care physician visited them in the hospital and if follow-up visits, both with primary and specialist care, were observed. Some of instances of continuity were measured based on a single day, as would be the case if a patient was hospitalized and discharged promptly, while others looked at long-term doctor-patient relationships over a period of years. Poor Continuity of Care Shortens Lifespans Nearly 82% of the studies researchers looked at found clear mortality increases when there are lapses in continuity. And this was seen with both general and specialist care. Moreover, many of the others showed mixed results, meaning even those could not debunk the link. Better and Longer Relationships Lead to Improved Outcomes The... --- - Published: 2019-01-07 - Modified: 2019-01-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/new-health-resolutions/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: 2019, 2019 new year, 2019 new years, better health, get healthy, happy new year, health resolutions, healthy new year, healthy resolutions, new year goal, new year health, new year resolutions Sticking with your New Year’s health resolutions can be tough. If you’re like 77% of the population, according to Shelcy V. Joseph of Forbes Magazine, you’ve already let yours slip away. However, you can still make yours happen, even if you’ve stumbled. Joseph draws upon research presented by cognitive psychologist Spencer Gerrol who explains, “When setting these resolutions, dopaminergic reward systems (the orbitofrontal cortex and ventromedial prefrontal cortex) become more active”. This is what gets us excited about making big changes, but the brain doesn’t stay in this heightened state. Without regular stimulation, our desire to see things through wanes. Taking small steps, having accountability, and tracking your progress can help. As the leading concierge medical practice in Chicago, Dedication Health can assist you with lots of health resolutions too. Lose Weight Many people like to oversimplify and say that losing weight is merely a matter of eating less and exercising more. True, this is part of it. But if it really was that simple, everyone would be slim and fit. Additionally, businesses formed around weight loss gimmicks would go out of business. The reality is, reaching your weight loss goal is a personal journey, and it helps to have someone on your side who can help you identify what changes you can make for optimal nutrition based on your health resolutions. Patients of our concierge medical practice in Chicago can use our dedicated app to get immediate access to a certified health coach for nutrition and wellness advice. So... --- - Published: 2019-01-02 - Modified: 2019-01-02 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/eat-healthy-2019-meal-prep/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: 2019 eat healthy, 2019 new years, benefits of meal prep, chicago, chicago doctor, concierge doctors, eat better 2019, eat healthier, eat healthier 2019, eat healthy, eat healthy in 2019, eat healthy meal prep, health and wellness, healthy 2019, healthy meal prep, healthy new year, healthy new year's, meal prep, meal prep 2019, meal prepping If one of your new year’s resolutions is to eat healthy in 2019, that's great! But where do you start? From misconceptions like equating healthy eating with bland food and unsustainable fad diets, there are numerous factors that make healthy eating seem like a complicated affair. But it doesn't have to be so overwhelming. Making healthy food choices is all about planning ahead, and that is exactly what meal prep allows you to do. Meal prep—basically planning and preparing your meals ahead of time so you don’t have to do it when you’re busy, starving, or tired—is a fantastic way to keep a healthy diet on track. Here are three ways meal prep can help you eat healthy in 2019 and beyond. Keep healthy food readily available. If you want to eat healthily, keep healthy food readily available. A great way to do this is by preparing delicious and healthy meals for the week ahead of time. For many people, the biggest challenge to eating healthy has to do with making last-minute decisions about food: What's available right now? Not only does meal prep help keep healthy food readily available, but it also helps you save time and money throughout the week. You can also prepare healthy snacks such as fruits, nuts, and granola and keep them in easily accessible and visible places in your home and workplace. That way you reach for the good stuff when you’re ready for a quick lunch or snack. Eat healthy new recipes every... --- - Published: 2018-12-28 - Modified: 2022-01-28 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-new-years-resolutions-2019/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: chicago, chicago doctor, doctor, doctors in chicago, health, health and wellness, healthy new year, healthy new year's, healthy new year's resolutions, healthy new year's resolutions 2019, new year, new year's resolutions, primary care doctor With a new year approaching, it's that time again when we start to consider our hopes, dreams, and goals. It might be that you are reflecting on what you had set out to achieve this year and didn't quite accomplish, yet you are adamant that 2019 is going to be the year of mastery! Keeping this in mind, equipping yourself with some new tips and tricks can be a great way to keep your eyes on the prize of achieving and improving areas of your life. How to Make Healthy New Year's Resolutions Stick in 2019 Make Your Goals Meaningful When you have a range of goals that you are trying to choose and focus upon, select the first few that are the most meaningful to you. By considering how achieving these goals would enrich your life, can help to motivate you and be successful in not only setting-out to achieve them but also remain committed to them. If you have a goal such as, 'volunteering more regularly', this will not only add meaning to your life but it will also create extremely positive effects for others - this in itself can often contribute to being a strong motivator. Additionally, honing-in on the most relevant goals increases the likeliness of you sticking to them. Try Something New Not everyone begins their year with goals and aims as some people approach the new year with an open mind and see where it takes them. If this is your usual stance, maybe... --- - Published: 2018-12-23 - Modified: 2018-12-23 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/4-concierge-medical-services/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge medical, chicago concierge medicine, concierge health, concierge medical, concierge medical services, concierge medical services chicago, concierge medicine, concierge physician, health concierge Concierge Medical Services You Probably Didn't Know About You’ve probably heard by now that concierge medical services are designed to provide superior care, but what does that mean? Many expect concierge medicine to be what’s depicted on TV and reserved for the elite and celebrities. The reality is it’s not just about having your doctor’s ear whenever you want, nor is it something only a few can receive. Here’s a quick look at a few concierge medical services that will likely surprise you if you haven’t explored the concept in depth yet. 1) Specialty Care You may seek out concierge medical services because you want a top-notch primary care physician. That is certainly a great reason to do so. However, practices like Dedication Health have specialty physicians on staff, meaning you can see someone who specializes in geriatrics, diabetes, cardiology, endocrinology, or even travel medicine as needed. If you’re a generally healthy person, simply knowing a higher level of care is available will likely provide some measure of comfort, but if you’re reliant on the help of specialists to manage a chronic condition, your care team will become your anchor. 2) More Services On-Site Although not every practice brings in the latest in technology, Dedication Health does. Whether you need an x-ray, CT scan, or EKG, you can have it done in-office, thus saving the headache of travel and coordinating with other providers. An on-site lab, medicine reconciliation services, coumadin clinic, and nutrition/ wellness counseling are also available to members.... --- - Published: 2018-12-18 - Modified: 2018-12-18 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/health-membership-chicago/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: concierge care, concierge care chicago, concierge health, concierge health chicago, concierge health membership, concierge medicine, concierge membership, health membership, health membership chicago, health plan, health plan chicago, healthcare, membership health, membership healthcare There are various health membership options and concierge medical plans offered in Chicago. Unlike other methods to manage your healthcare and costs, such as insurance, each health membership plan is determined by the individual provider, so you will see differences from one practice to the next. On this page, we’ll go over the types of packages available, what’s included, and what’s not, empowering you to an informed decision about which type of health membership is right for you. Concierge Medical Plans are Membership-Based Concierge medical practices offer more services and additional time with your physician, among other things. They also limit the number of patients they accept, allowing the doctor to focus more attention on each person. In order to do so, you’ll be charged some kind of fee to hold your space. This may be called a retainer fee, health membership fee, or another variant. Pricing for this varies based on the practice and number of family members who will be seen by the doctor and typically range from about $1,500 to more than $5,000 per year. Expect Some Perks as Part of Your Health Membership At Dedication Health, we do as much as possible in-house, so that you don’t need to worry about scheduling elsewhere or coordinating your care. This includes specialty care, such as geriatrics, cardiology, diabetes management, travel medicine, and more. Because our practice is holistic in nature, meaning we believe in total wellness as a way of life, you can also receive nutrition and general... --- - Published: 2018-12-12 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/how-much-does-concierge-medicine-cost/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge care, concierge care near me, concierge doctor, concierge health, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine cost, concierge medicine fee, concierge medicine near me, how much does concierge medicine cost How much does concierge medicine cost? The simple answer is, probably less than you think. On this page, we’ll break down some of the common expenses at a national level and identify how you could actually save money by joining a concierge medical practice. How Much Does Concierge Medicine Cost? Before we begin, it’s important to clarify what concierge medicine really is, and how services vary, to help narrow down what you might anticipate for your own personal expenses. Concierge Medical Practices are Different Concierge medical practices see fewer patients, in order to provide you with more time with your physician. This is different from the initial style of concierge medical practice, in which the physician traveled and did house calls. It is also different from direct patient care, which requires patients to pay cash for services instead of using insurance. With most concierge medical practices today, you still need to visit your doctor in his or her office, but you get more time per appointment, and you can use your medical insurance. You’ll also likely get perks, such as 24/7 access to your physician and perhaps faster service, better technology, more services offered in-office, and full medical care management. From there, additional perks will vary drastically from one practice to the next. For example, we focus on making our patient care suites comfortable, provide valet parking, and offer total wellness services, like nutrition counseling, but you might not find these services at other practices. How Much Does Concierge Medicine... --- - Published: 2018-12-04 - Modified: 2018-12-04 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/pulmonary-care/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: Dr Philip Sheridan, Dr Philip Sheridan Jr., Dr Sheridan, Dr. Philip H. Sheridan, pulmonary, pulmonary care, pulmonary care near me, pulmonary chicago, pulmonary disease, pulmonary doctor, pulmonary doctors, pulmonary medicine, pulmonary specialist, pulmonologist, pulmonologists, specialist care If you’re running a search for “Pulmonary care near me”, chances are that time is of the essence. Pulmonary doctors, referred to as pulmonologists, are internists who have additional training which allows them to focus on the respiratory system. This includes the lungs, upper airways, thoracic (chest) cavity, and chest wall. Other physicians often consult with a pulmonologist when a patient is in dire need of care or when a particular case is difficult to diagnose or treat. What Kinds of Issues Do Pulmonary Doctors Treat? Pulmonologists treat virtually everything that impacts a person’s ability to breathe. A few examples include: Asthma Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COPD) Cystic Fibrosis Emphysema Interstitial Lung Disease Lung Cancer Occupational Lung Diseases Pulmonary Hypertension Sleep Apnea Tuberculosis 5 Tips to Find Pulmonary Care Near You 1. Talk to Your Primary Care Physician If you’re already under a physician’s care, your doctor likely has a handful of physicians he knows and trusts. Going with his recommendation often means you’ll get better care and that the two offices will coordinate your care well. 2. Check with Your Insurance Company Sometimes insurance companies won’t cover treatment from a specialist if they haven’t approved the visit first. If your insurance company is one like this, it’s advantageous to check with them before going out and searching on your own. 3. Visit Review Sites Normally, friends and family can provide a wealth of information, but few will ever need to visit a pulmonary specialist, so they’re unlikely to be... --- - Published: 2018-11-25 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/is-concierge-medicine-right/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge medicine, concierge care, concierge doctor, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine near me, health concierge, is concierge medicine The Kings and Queens of yesteryear knew the answer to the question “Is concierge medicine right for you? ” They kept private physicians near at hand because they valued their lives, and they valued their doctor's skillset. They knew that their lives and health provided stability for their kingdom. A healthy royal at the head of the state ensured the safety and prosperity of the entire realm. The noble family kept the physician on retainer in the palace so they could benefit from the doctor’s services whenever and as however often they needed treatment. American society has done well to continue recognizing the value of a doctor’s training, and now concierge medical practices are recognizing the value of their client patrons. Your home is your castle, and the people who count on you are in your kingdom. People rely on you for their security, life stability, and companionship. If your health suffers, it will impact the people around you. You can help ensure the stability of your kingdom by answering “yes” to the question, “Is concierge medicine right for me? ” By keeping your physician on retainer as the nobles of old did, you will enjoy more convenient medical care that will keep you healthier than traditional practices. How Does Concierge Medicine Keep You Healthier than Other Practices? Ease of Scheduling: When you opt for concierge medicine, you pay a retainer fee in exchange for the benefit of being among the small number of patients that the practice will see.... --- - Published: 2018-11-18 - Modified: 2018-11-18 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/endocrinology-finding-the-best-diabetes-care-near-me/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: best diabetes care, Chicago endocrinology, diabetes, diabetes care, diabetes care near me, diabetes doctor, dr richard stern, dr stern, dr stern chicago, endocrinologist, endocrinology, endocrinology doctor, endocrinology near me If you’re looking for endocrinology or diabetes care, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that more than 100 million people have diabetes or prediabetes in the United States. Nearly 10% of the population is already diabetic, and the numbers are growing. If you’ve been recently diagnosed, it can seem like a hopeless disease, but it can be managed and you can live a full healthy life, especially if you get the right care. What is a Diabetes Specialist? There’s not really an official specialty of medicine devoted exclusively to diabetes. Those who provide diabetic care on a specialist level are usually endocrinologists. These are physicians who have gone through additional schooling related to internal medicine and then focused in on the glands of the endocrine system—the hormone system. This includes the pancreas, which is responsible for insulin production. When Should I Search for Endocrinology Near Me? 1) Your doctor refers you. Some primary care physicians really know diabetes well, and if you have an uncomplicated case, may be able to treat you in their office. If your doctor refers you out, it means he knows he doesn’t have the skills necessary to treat you or he’d feel better if you are in the hands of a specialist. 2) You question your doctor’s expertise. Perhaps you know your doctor hasn’t treated many diabetics or you’ve got a nagging feeling he’s missing something. 3) You feel lost in your care. Right out of the gate, your physician should be explaining your condition to... --- - Published: 2018-11-10 - Modified: 2018-11-10 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-care/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge, concierge care, concierge care chicago, concierge care near me, concierge health, concierge health care, concierge healthcare, concierge medical care, concierge medicine, concierge medicine near me, health concierge, membership healthcare Unfortunately running a search for "concierge care near me" often pulls up a very short list, if anything at all. If you’ve done so recently, you probably know the many benefits of concierge care; more time with your physician, a focus on total wellness, a sense of ease when it comes to managing your healthcare. Yet, with such stark differences between traditional medicine and these boutique practices, why is it so hard to find a provider when you need one? The US is Facing a Physician Shortage America could be short as much as nearly 105,000 physicians by 2030 according to the latest stats. Of them, upwards of 40,000 will be primary care physicians; 800 fewer per state than needed to keep up with the population. The nation is shorthanded, which is a big reason why many offices work more like assembly lines than wellness centers. It’s Difficult for Physicians to Switch While many doctors have become every bit as frustrated with the state of medicine as patients have, the right answer to the problems faced isn’t so clear-cut. To keep up with demands, many offices now employ a number of auxiliaries who handle many of the tasks a doctor formally would have performed. While this makes it easier for them to see more people and get by on the pittance insurance companies offer for services, it still harms the experience. Many doctors want to switch to alternate models, but doing so generally means they need to sell or close... --- - Published: 2018-10-18 - Modified: 2018-10-18 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/internist-vs-family-doctor/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: boutique doctor, chicago family doctor, chicago internal medicine, chicago internist, chicago primary care doctor, concierge doctor, concierge internal medicine, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, dedication health, internal medicine, internal medicine doctor, internist, internist chicago When comparing an internist vs family doctor, it can be difficult to tell the difference between the two at first. After all, insurance companies sometimes cover either as a primary care physician and either can treat you for various reasons. However, there are distinct differences in the two, and to determine which one is right for your needs, it’s helpful to break down the unique qualities of each and how they operate. An Internist is an Internal Specialist “Innere Krankheiten,” or German for “internal medicine,” was first brought to the US in the late 1800s, though it existed long before that without the name. The concept behind it is simple; all areas of medicine for adults which don’t deal with the outside of the body, but rather, within. Though the scope of training varies, it usually consists of an additional 1-3 years of schooling to become an internal medicine specialist, with some physicians becoming generalists who oversee all areas of the body and others who work in a sub-specialty such as: Allergy and Immunology Cardiology Endocrinology Gastroenterology Geriatrics Hematology Hepatology Infectious Diseases Nephrology Oncology Pulmonology Rheumatology A Family Physician Treats Almost All Conditions in People of All Ages A family physician doesn’t go through the extra training to focus on only one area. Instead, he could be treating illnesses with one patient, and then be performing an exam on a pregnant woman next. Moreover, the family physician sees children as well as adults and he’ll just as readily treat acne... --- - Published: 2018-10-13 - Modified: 2018-10-13 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medical-care-top-3-reasons/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge doctor, concierge medical, concierge medical care, concierge medical care chicago, concierge medical care near me, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine near me, conicerge dr, medical care There are countless reasons why both patients and physicians are switching over to concierge medical care. If current growth is any indicator, the concept will absolutely boom in the coming years, putting better care within reach for more people than ever. Why such a drastic shift? If you’ve already become a member at a concierge medical practice, you probably already know why, but for those just dipping their toes in and learning, here are the top three reasons why concierge medicine will get bigger. Patients Want More Time with Their Doctor If you have been to a general practitioner's office lately and felt like you were rushed in and out, you didn’t imagine it. The average doctor in a traditional medical practice spends just 8 minutes with each patient. This leads to patient dissatisfaction, and patients often move to a new practice hoping it will be different. But it won’t be different, because it’s the model, not the office, that has an issue. In order to make ends meet, the average doctor has a patient load of thousands of patients. The doctor becomes frazzled and rushed, and the patient doesn’t receive the time he or she deserves. This leaves both physicians and their patients unhappy. Because concierge-style medical practices can have a much smaller group of patients, the doctor has much more time for them; 76% spend 30-60 minutes with each patient per visit, while 14% spend more than 60 minutes. Patients Feel Undervalued and are Tired of Waiting The... --- - Published: 2018-10-07 - Modified: 2018-10-07 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/geriatrics/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: geriatric care, geriatric care chicago, geriatric care near me, geriatric medicine, geriatric medicine chicago, geriatric medicine near me, Geriatrician, Geriatrician chicago, Geriatrician near me, Geriatricians, geriatrics, geriatrics chicago, geriatrics doctor, geriatrics near me Geriatrics is a field of medicine dedicated to helping people of a certain age. But what exactly is that age and what conditions determine if it’s time to make a switch? Whether you’re looking for yourself or someone else you care deeply about, you may have some questions about geriatrics. On this page, we’ll walk you through what you can expect from a geriatric practice and when it might be time to seek one out. What is Geriatrics? Geriatrics is a sub-specialty of internal medicine, so it makes more sense to start there. Internal medicine is a branch of healthcare that’s dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions that happen inside the bodies of adults. Internists are physicians who spend an additional 1-3 years in school in order to be called internal medicine specialists. They then go on to work as generalists or will cover a specific area, such as cardiovascular health, diabetes care, or geriatrics. In some cases, internists will see patients on a regular basis, just like a family doctor will. However, many become “doctor’s doctors. ” Due to their expertise, other physicians call them when they need additional help diagnosing or a patient isn’t responding to treatment. Therefore, individuals may seek out the help of a geriatric specialist, also called a geriatrician, when they think they need one or when their physician refers them. What Do Geriatricians Do? Aging people need special care. They’re often more fragile, prone to falls, and have mobility issues. Sometimes cognitive issues... --- - Published: 2018-10-03 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-and-insurance/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine and insurance, concierge medicine insurance, concierge medicine insured, concierge medicine services, insurance and concierge medicine, insurance concierge medicine, is concierge medicine covered by insurance Concierge Medicine and Insurance: Here's What You Need to Know When people first hear about concierge medical practices, they generally like the idea, but often wonder about concierge medicine and insurance. Whether or not insurance covered concierge medicine is a question worth asking, but it doesn’t have a simple answer. On this page, we’ll explore some of the costs associated with care and discuss whether or not insurance companies traditionally cover them. Each Plan is Unique, and May Have Different Benefits Insurance companies have numerous plans, each with its own rules, stipulations, and coverage levels. Sometimes, even plans offered by the same employer will vary. For this reason, it’s impossible to speculate what any given plan will cover. At Dedication Health, we’re in-network providers for most major insurance companies. If you’d like specific details about concierge medicine and insurance, please call our office directly and we’ll find out what your plan offers. Membership Fees: Generally Not Covered Concierge medical practices typically have a monthly or annual fee to participate. The amounts will vary based on what the practice offers and the level of care you’ll receive. Because this is technically not a medical service, insurance companies do not generally cover the membership fee. Annual Physicals/ Well Checks: Generally Covered One of the most confusing things about the Affordable Care Act is how annual checkups are covered. In essence, the policy was written to ensure people could visit their physician once a year for a wellness visit at no cost. Unfortunately,... --- - Published: 2018-09-29 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-can-save-you-money/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine can save you money, concierge medicine cost, concierge medicine plan, concierge medicine practice, concierge medicine price, concierge medicine savings, concierge practice Believe It or Not, Concierge Medicine Can Save You Money Are you curious to know how concierge medicine can save you money? You’re not alone. While there is plenty of information out there which suggests the model is only for the wealthy and elite, it’s actually more affordable than most people think. In fact, many people save money by switching to a concierge medicine plan from their standard healthcare plan. A Quick Overview of Concierge Medical Practices Before we get into how concierge medicine can save you money, it’s important to understand what the model entails. In short, concierge medical practices charge some kind of base fee. They may call it a membership fee, access fee, or retainer fee, which can be broken up into monthly or yearly payments, depending on the office. Because of this, physicians are able to spend more time with each patient, they keep their practices smaller, and they offer perks, like 24/7 access to physicians. Because of the up-front costs, though, many people incorrectly believe it’s more expensive to be with a concierge-style practice. 24/7 Access Can Prevent the Need for Visits One of the most appreciated features of a concierge medicine practice is that physicians make themselves more available to their patients, and this can sometimes eliminate the need for repeat visits. Imagine you’re fighting a cold or have a chronic condition, and you go in for treatment. If the first round of treatment isn’t effective or the condition persists, most physicians for you... --- - Published: 2018-09-28 - Modified: 2018-09-28 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-reviews/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge doctor, concierge healthcare, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine near me, concierge medicine practice, concierge medicine reviews, dedication health, dedication health reviews Curious to know what patients say about concierge healthcare? We’ve gathered up quotes from our own patients' concierge medicine reviews on Google and Yelp to provide a clearer picture of how Dedication Health patients feel about the concierge healthcare services offered. My Doctor Listens to Me “They value your time, fully listen to your symptoms or concerns and they go above and beyond to make sure your needs are taken care of. ” -Brooke M. Patients commonly remark about how refreshing it is to feel unrushed and listened to during visits. The traditional primary care model only allows about eight minutes of time with a physician, so it’s a rush to get everything out as quickly as possible in order to have all concerns addressed. Dedication Health sees fewer patients and only schedules one patient at a time. Because of this, you have the doctor’s full attention when you visit. My Doctor Knows Me, Not Just My Conditions “It's always a very positive experience from the front door to the exam room. Phone calls, text messages, etc always returned. No wait for Appointments, usually the next day. I have been with Dr. Stern for 20 years, one of the best. You never feel rushed always have time to listen and get to know your personality not just your illness. ” -Mary Lou J. One wonderful side-effect of having longer visits and fewer patients is that doctors truly get to know those they care for on a personal level. Traditional practices... --- - Published: 2018-09-20 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/direct-primary-care-concierge-medicine/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: concierge healthcare, concierge medicine, direct primary care, direct primary care practice, direct primary care vs concierge medicine, dpc, membership healthcare, on demand healthcare As you explore your options, you’ll likely wonder “What is direct primary care? ” As one of several emerging types of medical practices seeing major growth across the United States, it’s commonly confused with concierge medicine. On this page, we’ll explore what it is and cover how it’s different than concierge medicine, as well as who might benefit from either type of care. What is Direct Primary Care? Direct primary care (DPC) distinguishes itself from other models first and foremost by doing away with insurance companies. Although a few practices will occasionally call themselves DPC and accept insurance, most do not, simply because they don’t follow standard billing procedures. Instead, they charge a flat monthly fee for each patient who becomes a patient of their practice, and generally leave it at that, whether you don’t visit at all or go in ten times during one month, no additional fees are charged. Because no insurance is involved and payments are set up with automatic withdraws, most DPC offices can also do away with all staff related to billing, which helps save them money. What’s DPC Like for a Patient? Because physicians have a steady stream of dependable income from retainer fees, they typically limit their practices to about half the number of patients a traditional practice has, which can increase the amount of time patients get with their physician and reduce wait times to get in. Retainer fees vary but usually sit at just under $100 per month. How is DPC... --- - Published: 2018-09-14 - Modified: 2018-09-14 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-physician/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: a concierge doctor, chicago concierge doctor, chicago concierge medicine, concierge doctor, concierge medicine, concierge physician, concierge physicians There’s some debate about whether concierge medicine is an ideal model or if it somehow harmful to medicine as a whole. However, we here at Dedication Health believe everyone should have a concierge physician. Here’s why... Everyone Deserves to Feel Valued Many modern practices operate more like assembly lines than medical care providers. Patients must book their wellness visits months in advance and even getting in for an urgent issue can be a challenge. When the patient arrives, they’re handed a stack of paperwork to fill out and they sit in a busy waiting room for nearly 20 minutes. When they finally get taken back, there’s more waiting and eventually an appearance from a physician, only the physician hasn’t had time to look over all the papers the patient has filled out. The appointment is brisk and focused purely on the most urgent matter. The physician doesn’t have time to stop and answer more questions, so if the patient wants to talk about something else, that’s another visit and more waiting. Under the concierge-style model, the focus is flipped from serving as many people to serving people, but serving them well. Because most traditional offices are rushed, there’s little time to focus on whatever crisis brought the patient in, let alone taking steps that could prevent problems from occurring, Under the concierge-style model, the concierge physician really gets to know his or her patients, including lifestyle, health concerns, and family. Because the concierge physician can look at the whole picture,... --- - Published: 2018-09-09 - Modified: 2018-09-09 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/trusting-doctor-patient-relationship/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: concierge doctor, concierge doctors, concierge medicine, doctor, doctor trust, doctor-patient, doctor-patient relationship, doctors, patient-doctor, physician You intrinsically know that your doctor-patient relationship impacts not only patient satisfaction but also the outcome of your treatment. If you’ve ever had a bad experience with a care provider, such as leaving with a sensation that you weren’t heard or that your issues weren’t addressed, you already know the sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach and the questions that ensue. Did I get the right diagnosis? Am I getting the right treatment? Can I trust my physician? While part of building a positive doctor-patient relationship is up to you, quite a bit of it falls directly on your physician's shoulders. Here are things that impact your doctor-patient relationship, so you know what to look for when choosing a doctor. 1) Find a Practice that Sees a Limited Number of Patients Previously, we covered what causes doctor burnout and what some of the consequences of doctor burnout are. One of the leading issues is little face-to-face time with patients, coupled with an overwhelming amount of administrative duties outside of patient care. When burnout ensues, physicians make more errors (increasing poor outcomes including deaths), refer patients out more, and the overall cost of care rises. Where a traditional practice may have thousands of patients, newer models, such as concierge medicine, limit the total number of patients seen in the practice and the number of patients seen in a day to somewhere around 20 percent of what a traditional physician sees. Therefore, one of the best things you can do... --- - Published: 2018-09-03 - Modified: 2018-09-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/cardiovascular-medicine/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: cardio doc, cardio doctor, Cardiologist, cardiology, Cardiovascular Medicine, cardiovascular medicine chicago, cardiovascular medicine near me, chicago cardiologist, internal medicine, internist If you’re looking for cardiovascular medicine and happen to be in the greater Chicago area, you’ve come to the right place. Dedication Health is a local concierge medical practice offering world-class care and an array of services to make staying healthy an easy and enjoyable process. If you’re outside the area, you’ve also come to the right place. Although we may not be your ideal practice due to distance, we’ll walk you through how to find great care in your area. What Is Cardiovascular Medicine? Cardiovascular medicine is a subspecialty of internal medicine, devoted to the heart, blood vessels, and vascular system. Let’s break it down a bit: Internal Medicine: A field of medicine related to the study, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and conditions which impact adults internally. Internists attend 1-3 years of school on top of what other physicians typically do in order to become a specialist. They may be a generalist or focus on a subspecialty, like geriatrics, endocrinology, or cardiovascular medicine. Other physicians routinely call upon them when they need additional expertise. Cardiovascular Medicine: Cardiovascular medicine specialists are referred to as cardiologists. While a lot of people are familiar with them from a heart health standpoint, they manage the care of all blood flow throughout the body. What Do Cardiologists Treat? Cardiologists are doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases or conditions of the heart and blood vessels—the cardiovascular system. Therefore, conditions cardiologists treat include: Congenital Heart Defects Heart Failure Heart Muscle Disease Coronary... --- - Published: 2018-08-30 - Modified: 2018-08-30 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/rheumatologist/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: chicago Rheumatology, concierge medicine, Good Rheumatologist, Good Rheumatologist in Chicago, good rheumatologist near me, Rheumatologist, Rheumatologist in Chicago, Rheumatologist near me, Rheumatology, Rheumatology chicago, Rheumatology near me Depending on your location, keying “rheumatologist near me” into the search box could return almost any results. If you’re in a smaller community, you may see nothing at all. In a larger city, you may have so many options it’s difficult to choose. If you’re in the greater Chicago area, searching for a good rheumatologist could bring you to the Dedication Health site. What Is a Rheumatologist? Rheumatology is a specialty area dedicated to the treatment of musculoskeletal and rheumatic diseases. While many simply associate these specialists with the care of arthritis, there is a number of diseases which can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and deformity in bones, muscles, and joints. A rheumatologist treats them all. Some rheumatologists are pediatricians who have undergone additional training, and these individuals only treat children who have the associated conditions. Adults will see an internist, also known as an internal medicine specialist, who has undergone an additional 1-3 years of schooling in order to hold the title. Where Do I Find Someone Who Specializes in Rheumatology? Most people are referred by their primary care physician. In these cases, the doctors tend to already have a good working relationship, and the primary care physician offers the referral because he feels the patient needs specialist care. Sometimes people search for one on their own because they’re unsatisfied with the treatment they’re getting from a primary care physician and want a second opinion from a specialist. In these cases, recommendations from insurance companies, friends and family, or... --- - Published: 2018-08-25 - Modified: 2018-08-25 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/5-signs-its-time-to-change-doctors/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: boutique doctors, change doctor, change doctors, chicago, concierge, concierge doctor, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge physicans, doctor, doctors, signs its time to change doctors Looking for signs it’s time to change doctors? If you’re worried you might not be getting the quality of care you deserve, it probably is a good idea to explore your options. However, switching up naturally means having to research physicians, obtain copies of your records, and develop a relationship with a whole new group of people, which can seem challenging—especially if you’re treating a chronic condition or need routine care. If you’re on the fence, use these five signs it’s time to change doctors to help decide if it’s really time to cut ties or if you might be able to work things out. 1) The Staff isn’t Helpful and Friendly Oftentimes, the receptionist and assistants are seen as gatekeepers to the physician. In order to get through to the physician, whether you need an appointment, have a question, or require a prescription refill, it’s the staff who can make or break the experience. If they aren’t receptive to your needs, fail to forward information to the physician, or don’t treat you with respect, they can derail the quality of your care. This is seen more often in traditional practices than concierge medicine practices, as concierge physicians usually give their patients direct access and their staff members have a different mentality. If you experience unhelpful staff members in any type of practice, however, you should mention it to the physician. If he doesn’t take action and the situation doesn’t improve right away, consider it a red flag. 2) You... --- - Published: 2018-08-20 - Modified: 2018-08-20 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/membership-healthcare-is-it-worth-it/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: chicago membership healthcare, concierge health care, concierge healthcare, concierge medical care, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, healthcare membership, membership health care, membership healthcare, membership medical care It seems everywhere you turn these days, people are weighing the pros and cons of membership healthcare- is it worth it in terms of cost? Do I need to switch to get better care? What can I expect from a practice if I do join? Ultimately, it’s a very personal decision, and the answer will vary from person to person. Let’s explore some of the various aspects that go into making a decision, so you can decide if it’s right for you. Is Membership Healthcare Worth it in Terms of Cost? Concierge medical practices typically charge a membership healthcare fee, though the amount will vary from one office to the next. Some may charge a per-visit fee as well. To find out if it’s within your reach, contact practices that are known for quality care and inquire about these costs. Don’t be dismayed if one practice is out of reach, as other offices will have different rates, and may be able to provide services that bring your overall care costs down. Some membership healthcare practices accept insurance as well, which can help keep costs lower. Though some find switching to a catastrophic plan and contributing to a medical expense account makes more fiscal sense. Do I Need to Switch to Get Better Care? Again, this will depend on the level of care you’re receiving now. At present, the average family practitioner has 2,300 patients. In order for him to provide all preventive, chronic, and acute care for his patients, he’d... --- - Published: 2018-08-16 - Modified: 2018-08-16 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/internal-medicine/ - Categories: Internal Medicine - Tags: concierge doctor, concierge healthcare, concierge internal medicine, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine near me, Dr. Santiago A. Candocia, health, healthcare, internal concierge medicine, internal medicine, internal medicine chicago, internal medicine doctor, internal medicine near me, internist, medicine Internal medicine is a term that’s often thrown around, but few know what it really means, what the field covers, and who’s involved in it. However, understanding the basics of it can totally change your life if you’re impacted by certain conditions. On this page, we’ll break down what internal medicine is and explore a few of its sub-specialties. What is Internal Medicine? To put it simply, internal medicine refers to the study, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases which impact adults on the inside. To become an internal medicine specialist, also called an internist, a physician must undergo a minimum of 1-3 years of additional schooling. Some internists become general internists or generalists. This means they look at all they body’s internal systems. Others focus on one particular area of the body. We’ll break down a few of these sub-specialties in just a moment. Suffice it to say, internists are the experts. They’re the ones doctors call when they’re stumped, a patient isn’t responding to treatment, or someone has a case that’s too advanced for them to handle. So, if you’re really sick or are having trouble getting a diagnosis, you’ll want to seek out the help of an internal medicine specialist too. 6 Sub-Specialties of Internal Medicine There are numerous sub-specialties and various medical organizations and authorities will break down the subspecialties a bit differently. That said, the six listed below are fairly universal. 1. Rheumatology Rheumatology is devoted to the musculoskeletal system and joints. A rheumatologist may... --- - Published: 2018-08-11 - Modified: 2018-08-11 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-near-me/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge healthcare, chicago concierge medicine, concierge doctor, concierge health care, concierge healthcare, concierge medical practice, concierge medical services, concierge medicine, concierge medicine benefits, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine in Chicago, concierge medicine near me, concierge medicine services, concierge physician Unfortunately running a search for "Concierge Medicine Near Me" often pulls up a very short list, if anything at all. If you’ve done so recently, you probably know the many benefits of concierge medical care; more time with your physician, a focus on total wellness, a sense of ease when it comes to managing your healthcare. Yet, with such stark differences between traditional medicine and these boutique practices, why is it so hard to find a provider when you need one? The US is Facing a Physician Shortage America could be short as much as nearly 105,000 physicians by 2030 according to the latest stats. Of them, upwards of 40,000 will be primary care physicians; that’s 800 fewer per state than needed to keep up with the population. The nation is already shorthanded, which is a big part of the reason why many offices work more like assembly lines than wellness centers. It’s Difficult for Physicians to Switch While many doctors have become every bit as frustrated with the state of medicine as patients have, the right answer to the problems faced isn’t so clear-cut. To keep up with demands, many offices now employ a number of auxiliaries who handle many of the tasks a doctor formally would have performed. While this makes it easier for them to see more people and get by on the pittance insurance companies offer for services, it still harms the experience. Many doctors want to switch to alternate models, but doing so generally means... --- - Published: 2018-08-05 - Modified: 2018-08-05 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-history/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge healthcare, concierge medical care, concierge medical history, concierge medical practice, concierge medical practice in chicago, concierge medicine, concierge medicine doctor, concierge medicine in Chicago With the large increase of concierge medical practices in the country, many are trying to learn as much as they can about concierge medicine history and how the model operates. On this page, we’ll explore a bit about concierge medicine history to help you better understand why it was created and who it works for best. Concierge Medicine Has Been Around for Decades Troubled by the lack of quality time with patients, and sensing that patients felt their needs were going unmet, doctors first began creating concierge medical practices in the 1990s. The first concierge medical practice was founded in Seattle, WA, in 1996 by Dr. Howard Maron and Dr. Scott Hall. They called the practice MD2, pronounced “M. D. squared. ” These doctors charged an annual retainer fee in the range of $13,200 to $20,000 per family. Because MD2 didn’t use the term “concierge,” others credit Cooperative Med of Florida with being the first. Founded in 2002, the practice was also different in that it never had a standard patient base; it was formed exclusively as a concierge medical practice. There are Many Forms of Unique Care Options In the early 2000s, other forms of care began popping up, which drew the attention of Medicare and the American Medical Association and caused the AMA to draft guidelines for “boutique” practices. One alternative to concierge is direct care. Under this model, patients pay their physicians cash and don’t use insurance. Although it doesn’t include perks like a concierge medical practice... --- - Published: 2018-07-27 - Modified: 2018-07-27 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/boutique-medical-services-chicago-quick-guide/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: boutique doctor, boutique doctors, boutique medical practice, boutique medical practices, boutique medical service, boutique medical services, boutique medical services in chicago, boutique medicine, chicago boutique medical services, concierge medical services, concierge medicine, conicerge medical practice If you’ve been considering boutique medical services in Chicago, you’re not alone. Both patients and physicians alike are moving to this model en masse. However, it’s still an emerging concept. It can be a challenge to find offices that have made the switch and pinpoint what exactly each one brings to the table. On this page, we’ll break down the basics; from finding boutique medical services in Chicago through what to look for when selecting a practice. How to Find Boutique Medical Services in Chicago Naturally, we’d like you to choose Dedication Health if you’re in the area. We’re just north of Chicago in Winnetka. However, if you’re not in the area or want to check all your options, here’s where to get info: Recommendations from Family and Friends Online Review Sites (like Yelp and Google) Insurance Lists (Yes, a few accept insurance... more on this in a moment. ) Know the Difference Between “Boutique” Practice Types Most practice types have been around for decades, though a few are gaining steam and seem new. Direct Primary Care: Insurance is not billed. Patients typically pay a recurring retainer fee and services offered are all-inclusive. This model is usually used to deliver low-cost healthcare, so it’s typically provided by large corporations to employees. Physicians may limit visits and services in order to keep the monthly cost low for patients. Concierge Medicine: Insurance may or may not be accepted. Patients typically pay a recurring retainer fee to hold their place in the practice.... --- - Published: 2018-07-23 - Modified: 2018-07-23 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/8-telling-questions-concierge-doctor/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge doctor, chicago concierge doctors, concierge doctor, concierge doctor in chicago, concierge healthcare, concierge medical care, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge physicans, concierge physician If you’re thinking about joining a concierge medical practice, knowing what questions to ask a concierge doctor can help ensure you choose the right practice for your needs. On this page, we’ll explore some questions you might not think to ask that can help you predict the type of care you’ll receive. 1) How Many Patients Does Your Practice Have Overall? Most traditional practices have thousands of patents. Concierge medical practices typically come in well under 1,000, and often closer to 500. While a lower patient-count doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop a personal relationship with your physician, it is a major factor in this and in his ability to learn about you. 2) How Many Patients Do You See In a Typical Day? It is quite common for a traditional doctor’s office to double-book and stagger appointments, so your physician isn’t “yours” even during your appointment time. Your physician could have several other patients booked in the same slot or have auxiliary staff assisting others he is ultimately responsible for. While there is no “right” patient-count, it can be reassuring to know that the office schedules lightly. For example, Dedication Health does not double-book. If you’re on the schedule, you are the only patient your concierge doctor has at the office at that time. 3) How Long Will My Visits with You Last? Traditionally, eight minutes or fewer with a traditional doctor is common. These short, rushed appointments are unsatisfying for both doctors and their patients. Because concierge doctors keep their... --- - Published: 2018-07-19 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-healthcare-satisfaction/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge healthcare, chicago concierge medicine, concierge health care, concierge healthcare, concierge healthcare chicago, concierge healthcare doctors, concierge medical care, concierge medicine, concierge medicine benefits, healthcare concierge, healthcare concierge companies Concierge Healthcare Patients are Happier Concierge healthcare creates better outcomes, keeps people healthier overall, and can even cut medical costs. This explains why more patients and physicians are making the switch to concierge medicine each year. Patients are much happier and satisfied with concierge healthcare and the perks and benefits offered; as demonstrated by countless patient satisfaction surveys. Here are the top 4 ways concierge healthcare boosts patient satisfaction. 1) Access to the Doctor is Improved Concierge healthcare providers like Dedication Health provide their patients with 24/7 access to their physician and often handle simple issues and follow-ups via phone. While it might seem like this would result in patients contacting their physician at all hours, the opposite is actually true. The reason for this is simple: whereas traditional practitioners may have their patients wait months for an appointment, a concierge medical practice has much shorter waits. Urgent needs are seen to right away and general appointments are arranged in days, not months. Because patients can see their doctor with ease, there are fewer emergencies and night calls, so not only are patients happy, but the physicians have less stress too. 2) Getting in Touch with the Office is Easier Managing multiple modes of communication becomes more difficult the larger a practice becomes. With this in mind, many offices only operate via phone, simply as an aid to ensure communication doesn’t fall through the cracks. The assembly-line mentality may help avoid these issues, but it isn’t exactly convenient in today’s... --- - Published: 2018-07-15 - Modified: 2018-07-15 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/doctor-burnout/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine benefits, concierge medicine model, doctor burn out, doctor burnout, doctor burnout in US, healthcare, healthcare trends, physician burnout, physician shortage Doctor burnout is something most don’t like to talk about, but it exists nonetheless and could be having a profound impact on the level of care you and your family receive. In order to provide a clearer picture of what’s happening in medicine today and what you can do to ensure your family receives quality care, we’ll explore the causes of doctor burnout, what the scope of the problem is, and what solutions medical practice are utilizing to make sure doctors can continue operating at their peak. Doctor Burnout is Caused by a “Perfect Storm” of Events Think of your last trip to the grocery store and the clerk who checked out your items. As you probably know, the clerk’s primary job is to help you, but he or she has other duties as well. They may involve stocking, cleaning, doing paperwork, or setting up displays. Most of the time, the cash registers are pretty good, but you probably also know what happens when an item doesn’t scan right. You might wind up waiting for a price check or the clerk will check his or her code book, search through dozens of variations of the same item, and manually key in the numbers. This takes time and is a minor annoyance, but thankfully, it doesn’t often happen. Now, imagine for a moment that your favorite store is purchased and the new owner wants to save a few bucks, so the number of employees is cut back and a different system... --- - Published: 2018-07-08 - Modified: 2018-07-08 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/patients-reveal-long-appointment-wait-time-kills-ratings/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: a concierge medical practice, benefits of concierge medicine, boutique physician, Chicago concierge medical practice, chicago concierge medicine Most of us have had to deal with a long appointment wait time at one point or another. It’s frustrating, to say the least, especially when you’ve put your day on hold and arrived punctually. Some interesting new research indicates it’s more than frustrating, though, and can actually shape how you feel about your physician when you’re not seen promptly. It could also have an impact on your overall health. Long Appointment Wait Times Impact Your Perception of Quality Research recently published by Vitals identified a number of factors patients look for when determining the quality of their care. While attentiveness of the doctor was certainly among them, office cleanliness, friendly receptionists, and yes, a long appointment wait time, impact perception as well. Overall, about 84% of people surveyed said that the punctuality of the office was either somewhat or very important to their overall perception. As Wait Times Increase, Ratings Drop Interestingly, delays are a major predictor in the rating patients give facilities too. For example, hospitals with five-star ratings have an average wait of 13 minutes and 17 seconds. Those with four-star ratings have average waits of 21 minutes and 32 seconds. If a few more seconds pass, bringing the clock to 22 minutes and 11 seconds, the average rating is three stars. Not surprisingly, one-star hospitals cross the 30-minute-mark. Delays Cause Many to Leave and/or Find a New Doc The perception of quality based on delays is a problem by itself, but what happens next is even... --- - Published: 2018-07-01 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/5-concierge-medicine-myths/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: benefits of concierge medicine, chicago concierge medicine, conceriege medicine chicago, concierge care myths, concierge medicine, concierge medicine misconceptions, concierge medicine myth, concierge medicine myths, myths of concierge medicine Top 5 Concierge Medicine Myths If you’re trying to find out information on concierge medical practices, you’re likely to find a lot of conflicting data and inaccuracies repeated from one place to the next. In “Concierge Medicine Myths" Top 5 Misconceptions,” we’ll explore some of the most common misconceptions we hear and uncover why each one is false. Myth #1: Concierge Medicine Is Only for the Wealthy Of all the concierge medicine myths, we hear this misconception the most. That is why we’ve dedicated an entire blog to this myth already. While there are some practices that have such high rates they’re only accessible to celebrities and the elite, not all are this way. Many concierge medical practice, including Dedication Health, keep their membership fees reasonable and affordable for many individuals and families. Myth #2: You Can’t Use Your Insurance There is an alternative model of medicine often confused with concierge medicine referred to as “direct primary care”. Similar to concierge medicine, direct primary care patients pay a membership, retainer or access fee. With DPC, physicians do not accept insurance and patients must pay out of pocket. With concierge medical practices, however, there are some that will bill insurance for you and may even be in-network- we’re one of them. Check out “Is Concierge Medicine Covered by Insurance? ” for more information. Myth #3: It Costs a Lot More to See a Concierge Doctor While there is a membership fee for concierge medical practices, becoming a member could actually save... --- - Published: 2018-06-27 - Modified: 2018-06-27 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/5-ways-maintain-your-health-as-well-maintain-car/ - Categories: Health and Wellness - Tags: chicago, chicago doctor, concierge doctor, concierge healthcare, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, doctor in chicago, health, maintain your health, mens health, wellness 5 Ways To Maintain Your Health As Well As You Maintain Your Car A few years ago, Men’s Health discovered something shocking: 40% of men will address a vehicle issue before they’ll address a health issue. Additionally, nearly 70% find it easier to take care of their cars than to manage their health. It’s not that men aren’t concerned about health at all. In fact, about 60% do have health concerns... but not about themselves. They worry about their partners. Indeed, men put their vehicles and their partners before themselves. Perhaps it’s a sign of the “protector” mentality many men were raised to have or maybe it’s much easier to identify an external issue, such as a partner showing signs of fatigue or a check engine light on the dash. Whatever the underlying cause, make it a priority to maintain your health. To start you off with the right set of tools, here are 5 ways to maintain your health as well as you maintain your car. 1) Use Premium Fuel You’re the only you the world will ever have, and that makes you a luxury product. Fine vehicles require premium fuel, so load up on things that are good for you. Sure, you should probably give up things like pizza, doughnuts, and that bowl of cereal you just stole from the kids, but if you’re not ready to do that just yet, focus on getting the healthful stuff on board first before indulging. At Dedication Health, we set all... --- - Published: 2018-06-22 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-healthcare-services-chicago/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: chicago concierge medicine, concierge health care, concierge healthcare, concierge healthcare near me, concierge healthcare pros and cons, concierge healthcare services, concierge healthcare services in chicago, concierge healthcare services near me, healthcare concierge companies, patient concierge services Concierge Healthcare Services in Chicago The desire for concierge healthcare services is growing rapidly. Investment in quality concierge healthcare is proven to improve your health outcome, while also reducing overall health costs. This is driving more and more patients make the switch each year. On this page, we will discuss concierge healthcare services and why medical offices that offer them have been rising in popularity. Who Uses Concierge Healthcare Services? Concierge medicine is a modern and innovative solution for ensuring optimal well-being. Concierge healthcare services are for those of us who embrace the notion that we are personally responsible for our own health and wellness. Many people cling to the idea that their employers and insurers should foot the bill for subsidized healthcare and subpar service, even if to their own detriment. Only those who understand the value of investing in their own comprehensive care and superior service can appreciate the benefits of the direct care model, where we work for you, not your health plan. Why Join Our Concierge Healthcare Program? Dedication Health offers exclusive, premium concierge healthcare services in Chicago and the North Shore for those seeking proactive, personalized care. You and your family will receive industry-leading medical care and a suite of best-in-class benefits and services. Our premium services and expert physicians tailor your healthcare experience to deliver a comfortable, attentive and holistic medical partnership. Each Dedication Health patient has the opportunity to receive on-demand attention from our doctors and staff, inside or outside our offices. Reasons... --- - Published: 2018-06-13 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/how-does-concierge-medicine-work/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago, Chicago concierge medical practice, concierge doctor, concierge medicine, concierge medicine in Chicago, how concierge medicine works, how does concierge medicine work How Does Concierge Medicine Work? How does concierge medicine work and how can you tell if it’s the right choice for you and your family? In our constantly-evolving healthcare system, these questions are on the minds of many. If you’ve felt unsatisfied with the level of care you’ve been receiving from your current practice, it’s well worth exploring. What Makes Concierge Medicine Different? While each concierge medical practice functions a little differently, the core difference is that care is patient-focused. Unfortunately, we live in an era in which doctors rush from one patient to the next. There’s little time to build a relationship with your physician, to learn about your medical conditions, or to ask questions, let alone build a plan that will keep you well. In a concierge medical practice, the physician intentionally keeps the practice small. Concierge physicians dedicate their time solely to one patient at a time and keep their schedules light. This ensures each patient has all the time they need. Moreover, physicians make themselves more available to their patients, typically offering 24/7 access for questions and concerns. In addition to this, many offer amenities to make visits comfortable and have on-site services allowing patients to accomplish more in one visit. How Does Concierge Medicine Work? Unlike traditional medical practices, in which patients are billed a fee for each and every appointment, as well as itemized costs for each thing done in a visit, a concierge medical practice charges an up-front retainer or membership fee. This... --- - Published: 2018-05-29 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-pros-and-cons/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge medicine practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine practice, concierge medicine pro con list, concierge medicine pros and cons, pros cons concierge medicine Concierge Medicine Pros and Cons Weighing concierge medicine pros and cons is an important first step in making better healthcare choices for you and your family. After all, there are many models of healthcare, and each one is designed to meet the needs of patients in a different set of ways. Concierge Medicine Pros 1. Personalized Care Concierge medicine brings doctors and patients closer together, in a model that more closely resembles what many of us grew up with. Physicians spend as much time with their patients as needed to better learn all about them. The physician and the patient then work together to find the right solutions for the patient’s needs and lifestyle. 2. Preventative Care With doctors in a rush to see patients quickly, little time is spent on preventative care and total wellness. The focus is on sick visits or acute care. In the concierge-style model, doctors and their teams spend more time on preventive care, so patients live healthier, fuller lives. 3. Flexibility Patients typically have access to their physician 24/7 via phone, which can sometimes eliminate visits altogether. Doctors also leave time open in their schedules for urgent visits and may have more diagnostic tools and support on site. 4. Cost Effective Preventative care helps lower healthcare costs for the patient, simply because patients stay healthier and require fewer hospitalizations. Unfortunately, the time physicians spend with patients now is not enough to focus on wellness, meaning people spend more on illnesses, diagnostics, hospitalizations, and other... --- - Published: 2018-05-26 - Modified: 2018-05-26 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/4-impactful-concierge-medicine-benefits/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: benefits of concierge medicine, cocierge benefits, conceriege medicine chicago, concierge medical, concierge medicine, concierge medicine benefits, concierge medicine near me If you’re looking into concierge medicine benefits and wondering if it’s the right choice for you, you’re not alone. While statistics that demonstrate the true growth of membership-based practices are difficult to come by, some estimates place the annual growth of the industry at more than 30%. This means quite a few people are seeing value in the service and making the switch. Here’s a quick look at 4 of the most impactful concierge medicine benefits that will provide a glimpse into what you might expect. 1) Better Patient/ Physician Relationships One of the most important of all concierge medicine benefits is that concierge physicians see fewer patients overall and schedule more time for patient appointments. Doctors tend to interact directly with their patients during this time, rather than relying on auxiliary staff to handle patient care. This gives doctors more time to get to know each member of their practice, which leads to stronger relationships and better overall care and health for patients. 2) Full Care Management Concierge medical practices come with many perks. Some of them are fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and on-site specialists, which makes getting diagnostic testing easier, as well as team members who are responsible for coordinating care. Dedication Health is a full-service concierge medical practice. This means that whether you’re trying to arrange care with a specialist, need tests run, or need prescription management, we have you covered. Saving time in this respect is wonderful, but the peace of mind it brings is... --- - Published: 2018-05-21 - Modified: 2018-05-21 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/is-boutique-doctor-right-for-you/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: boutique doctor, boutique doctor in chicago, boutique doctors, boutique medicine, boutique physician, boutique physicians Boutique doctors in Chicago are on the rise. Is a boutique doctor right for you? The answer is different for everyone, and even those who feel it’s the right choice may come to the conclusion for a unique set of reasons. On this page, we’ll give a bit of background on what a boutique doctor is (and isn’t) as well as the benefits of having one, so you can decide what’s best for you and your family. What Is a Boutique Doctor? The term “boutique doctor” can refer to any physician who runs a practice that charges a retainer or membership fee. Although some practices are all-inclusive and do not bill insurance, referred to as direct primary care (DPC), the term is most often used in conjunction with concierge medicine, in which more focus is placed on delivering top-notch patient care and developing strong physician/ patient relationships. In this type of medical practice (also called boutique medicine, retainer-based medicine or direct care), boutique doctors see fewer patients so they can spend more time with ones they do see. A boutique doctor can be someone who caters only to the wealthy, but this is not necessarily the case with all boutique physicians nowadays. Practices such as Dedication Health have put this type of care within reach for most professionals and can even bill insurance for individual services to help make it more affordable. What Are the Primary Benefits of Seeing a Boutique Doctor? More One-on-One Time: Physicians who follow the concierge-style... --- - Published: 2018-05-16 - Modified: 2018-05-16 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-practice/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: chicago concierge care, chicago concierge medicine, chicago concierge medicine practice, concierge care, concierge healthcare, concierge medical care, concierge medical practice, concierge medical practice chicago, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine practice, conicerge doctor Concierge Medicine Practice: 5 Things to Look For If you’re considering a concierge medicine practice, 5 things to look for that show an office will go above and beyond for you are outlined below. Because not every office offers the same options and follows the same protocol, identifying them in an office will make it easier to choose the best concierge medicine practice for you and your family. #1 The Concierge Medicine Practice Accepts a Limited Number of New Patients One of the marks of quality for any office is that the doctor has a predetermined maximum number of patient spots available. In a traditional office, a doctor will have thousands of patients. As a result, each patient has an incredibly limited amount of time with their doctor. There may also be delays when you need to schedule an appointment. With concierge medical practices, each physician typically accepts a few hundred patients at most, giving you more time with your doctor at each visit and ensuring you can get in quickly when you need to be seen. #2 The Practice Provides Additional Medical Services At Dedication Health, we have a travel medicine specialist, on-site advanced diagnostic equipment, medication management services, nutritional counseling, and more, so continuity of care is assured. Additionally, you can have more done in the office, so you’ll need fewer specialist referrals. Not every office offers extra medical services. In fact, some cut back on services to save on their own expenses, but that, unfortunately, makes life... --- - Published: 2018-05-12 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/who-uses-concierge-medicine/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine practice, who uses concierge medicine Who Uses Concierge Medicine? The real answer just might surprise you. When the model first emerged a couple decades ago, only the ultra-wealthy, such as celebrities, politicians, and CEOs could afford it. In all fairness, the stigma it gained in its infancy was well-earned, but it’s not that way at all anymore. So, who uses concierge medicine? Maybe you will soon, especially if you fall into one of the following groups. People with Insurance One common misconception about concierge medicine is that you can’t use insurance. Most practices, like Dedication Health, do accept insurance, and will gladly handle billing for you. However, if your particular plan requires that you see an in-network provider, you should verify that the physician is on the list. The Elderly Concierge medicine practices are most popular in states like California and Florida because of their large populations of retirees. Seniors tend to require management of more conditions, as well as assistance managing more prescriptions, so the extra time with a doctor and additional services are a major benefit. The Working Class While there are fees associated with being a member, concierge medicine practices like Dedication Health keep them reasonable and add value for the fees. For example, a wellness visit or yearly physical would be covered at no charge, visits can be scheduled quickly when there’s an illness, and the physician is available 24/7. With easier access to quality care, people spend less time sick and more time doing things they love. People Who Want... --- - Published: 2018-05-07 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/a-concierge-medical-practice/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: a concierge medical practice, Chicago concierge medical practice, concierge medical practice, concierge medical practices, find a concierge medical practice Due to the challenges associated with finding quality care, more people are trying to learn how to become a patient at a concierge medical practice and what they can expect when they switch. If you would like to find a local physician who specializes in concierge medicine and get set up with the practice, use this page as a guide. What is a Concierge Medical Practice? Before we get into how to become a patient at a concierge medicine practice, it’s important to define what you can, as well as what you should not, expect from a concierge medical practice. Concierge Medicine is NOT... Reserved for the wealthy. Many people perceive concierge healthcare to be only for wealthy people, but that is not the case. Although early practices using this model were dedicated only to serving the elite, concierge medical practices today have been made available and affordable for a large majority of households. Concierge healthcare is becoming wildly popular, and members agree that the benefits far surpass the membership fee. House-calls. While some concierge medical practices do offer house-calls for a price or as a monthly fee, not all do. At Dedication Health, we see all of our patients in our state-of-the-art facility because it enables us to provide better care. An alternative to health insurance. Sometimes, people never need care beyond what their primary care physician can offer. However, because emergencies can creep up unexpectedly, some health insurance is usually recommended. While Dedication Health does have some on-site... --- - Published: 2018-04-14 - Modified: 2018-04-14 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/why-employers-should-consider-concierge-medicine-for-employees/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: conciege doctor, concierge care, concierge healthcare, concierge medical, concierge medicine, concierge medicine Chicago, concierge medicine doctor, concierge medicine for employees, concierge practice, corporate wellness, corporate wellness chicago Why Employers Should Consider Concierge Medicine for Employees There are many reasons why employers should consider concierge medicine for employees. Generally speaking, people are attracted to the model because they get more time with their physicians and feel like they’re valued more by the practice. Of course, these reasons may be compelling for an individual, but don’t always add up when a company or HR department is considering it as a solution. Below, we’ll break down why the model is gaining steam with employers and why your company may actually benefit from including it in your employee offerings. 5 Reasons Why Employers Should Consider Concierge Medicine for Employees Less Absenteeism: A healthy employee shows up to work. Because a concierge medical practice guarantees access to a doctor 24/7, employees never need to wait until after the weekend or for an open appointment slot to receive the care they need. They can contact their doctor and start the recovery process as soon as symptoms arise. Studies have also shown that patients of these practices are hospitalized less and stay healthier. If you’re able to extend this to their families, your employees will also miss fewer days to care for their loved ones. Higher Morale: Think of how much you would appreciate the more thorough healthcare that concierge service provides. Our practice even greets clients with valet service and provides a private suite for each visit. Wouldn’t your employees appreciate the company who provides such service as part of their benefits package?... --- - Published: 2018-03-14 - Modified: 2018-03-14 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/concierge-medicine-vs-direct-primary-care/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge medicine, concierge medicine clinic, concierge medicine vs direct primary care, direct primary care Concierge Medicine vs Direct Primary Care Determining the differences in concierge medicine vs direct primary care can be challenging. After all, many websites, and even traditional practitioners, routinely misuse the terms or use them interchangeably, when they really are two distinct things. To learn which model is right for you, or to gain a better understanding of what options are available, we’ll give a brief breakdown and the background here. Why Are There Different Models? In short, many patients feel like their needs aren’t being met in traditional practices, and physicians are often unhappy with the level of care they can provide under “normal” conditions. As the years have gone by, patient counts at family practices have skyrocketed to the point where doctors are responsible for thousands of people in one practice, while time with physicians has steadily declined. In order to correct this, the medical profession has changed. Some doctors keep their counts high by reducing their time with patients even more. They may hire nurse practitioners or auxiliary staff who handle more patient care, while those who still want more direct patient contact and interaction typically turn to one of the other two models outlined here. What is Concierge Medicine? Concierge medicine in Chicago and the U. S. is an alternate model for general physicians and family practices. Offices that operate this way typically charge a monthly or yearly retainer or membership fee, and also bill insurance for individual procedures. As such, the doctors can see fewer patients... --- - Published: 2018-03-01 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/how-concierge-medicine-is-changing-healthcare/ - Categories: Concierge Medicine - Tags: concierge doctor, concierge healthcare, concierge medical care, concierge medical practice, concierge medicine, concierge medicine clinic, concierge medicine practice Concierge Medicine is Changing Healthcare The way medical treatment is sought, offered, and given has been rapidly changing across the United States for decades, but perhaps even more so in recent years. We’ve seen the fundamental shift from patient-driven care by physicians to a model that’s largely driven by insurance companies and dictated by the government. With the emergence of concierge medicine, it’s no longer a question of will there be yet another dramatic shift, but rather, how concierge medicine is changing healthcare now, and what we can expect as the practice grows. What is Concierge Medicine Concierge medicine differs from the traditional practice in many ways. First and foremost, patients don’t generally pay for each visit. Instead, they pay a monthly retainer fee, in return, receive access to their physician at virtually any time. This may mean a patient can pop in for routine treatment or preventative care by appointment as needed, or simply speak with their physician via phone, email, or text. Oftentimes, doctors who run these practices cater to their patients more than others, offering better amenities and comfort measures. How Concierge Medicine is Changing Healthcare Better Patient Relationships Although physicians are already well-known for keeping patients waiting in lobbies and for their rushed bedside manner, the degree to which patient care is suffering is expected to grow due to the insurance-based model. Nowadays, it’s common for people to be limited to only one or a handful of physicians based on their insurance policy, which means that... --- - Published: 2018-02-23 - Modified: 2018-02-23 - URL: https://www.dedication-health.com/the-doctor-will-see-you-now/ - Categories: Healthcare Trends - Tags: boutique doctor, chicago doctor, concierge doctor, concierge doctor chicago, doctor, doctor in chicago, family doctor, primary care doctor The Doctor Will See You ... Now An exciting concept in modern healthcare has emerged over the last ten years, with physicians and patients turning to a more integrated approach in the ways people provide and receive medical care. This concept often referred to as concierge, retainer or boutique medicine, is grounded in the belief that physicians and patients deserve to have better relationships, more quality time and fewer obstacles in order to provide the best quality of healthcare available utilizing today’s modern techniques, technologies and advances. According to Concierge Medicine Today, the number of these practices across the country is growing around 7 percent per year. The top reasons why concierge medical practices are becoming more popular include an improved doctor and patient relationship, increased access, and better care. The Doctor / Patient Relationship The relationship between patient and physician is built on trust and understanding; it’s the single most important factor in patient care. In standard medical practices, the quality of this relationship takes a back seat to the “checklist” approach of seeing patients- vitals, weight, blood work, maybe a question or two. In a concierge practice, such as Dedication Health, physicians, and patients get to know each other; there is an established rapport; there is open and ongoing dialogue, and there is a mutual understanding that this is a partnership with one goal in mind- achieving your best health. “The majority of physicians who decide to go into concierge medicine do so because of the inadequate time... --- ---