A Healthier Season Starts With a Plan
Before holiday travel and end-of-year commitments fill your calendar, make room for the care you may have been putting off. A follow-up visit, a medication review, or an overdue recommended screening can help you head into the fall and winter season with fewer unanswered questions about your health.
For residents of Stephens County, that care can start at Breckenridge Medical Center, Stephens Memorial Hospital’s outpatient clinic. Weekday appointments give patients a convenient source of high-quality care to discuss new health concerns, review ongoing conditions, and plan next steps.
“A trip out of town for healthcare can mean arranging a ride, missing work, or asking someone to watch the kids,” said Gena Speer, MSN, RN, CEO of Stephens Memorial Hospital. “Having a clinic, hospital services, and visiting specialists here in Breckenridge makes it easier for people to follow through on the care they need.”
Use your next visit to catch up
Bring an updated list of your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements, along with any questions about changes in your health. Ask which screenings and immunizations are appropriate for your age and health history, and plan to complete any recommended follow-up.
If your clinician orders blood work or imaging, Stephens Memorial Hospital offers laboratory testing and diagnostic imaging, including mammography and bone density testing. When a specialist is needed, ask whether an appointment is available through the SMH Specialty Clinic. Visiting specialties include cardiology, hematology/oncology, podiatry, audiology, general surgery, and gastroenterology.
Keep ongoing care on your calendar
Travel and holiday gatherings can disrupt the routines that help you manage diabetes, high blood pressure, and other common health conditions. Before you leave town, check your medication supply and allow time for refills. Complete ordered tests and follow-up visits, and continue monitoring your health as your clinician directs. If your usual readings or symptoms change, contact your care team.
Prepare for the illnesses that can disrupt plans
Ask your clinician about recommended protection against flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Immunizations are available that prevent illness and reduce the severity of illness if it occurs. Regular handwashing and cleaner indoor air also help reduce the spread of these respiratory viruses.
For mild illnesses or minor injuries that arise between scheduled appointments, Breckenridge Medical Center also offers walk-in care seven days a week. Save the clinic number so you know whom to contact when a sore throat, earache, or other concern changes your plans.
To schedule an appointment, call Breckenridge Medical Center at 254-559-3363. The clinic is located at 101 S. Hartford St. in Breckenridge.