Primary Care is often the first point of contact for your healthcare journey, acting as a foundation for your overall well-being. By establishing a relationship with a Primary Care Provider (PCP), you gain a valuable partner in maintaining and promoting your health. Here's how regular primary care visits contribute to a healthier you:

- Proactive Prevention: Primary Care goes beyond just treating illnesses when they arise. Your PCP focuses on preventive care, a proactive approach that helps identify potential health risks before they become problems. This includes routine screenings for various conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers. Early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment, preventing complications and promoting long-term health.

- Personalized Care and Management: Your PCP takes the time to understand your individual health history, lifestyle habits, and risk factors. This personalized approach allows them to create a customized care plan that addresses your specific needs. Whether you require ongoing management of a chronic condition, guidance on healthy lifestyle choices, or simply advice on maintaining overall well-being, your PCP is there to provide comprehensive support.

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is performed by placing small, adhesive electrodes on the patient's chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes are connected to an ECG machine via wires and work by detecting the electrical signals generated by the heart each time it beats. The patient is usually required to lie flat while the machine records the heart's rhythm and electrical activity. The process is quick, non-invasive, and painless, typically taking only a few minutes to complete. The machine prints the data in the form of waves on graph paper or displays it on a screen for the physician to review.

Before the test, the area where the electrodes will be placed may be cleaned and, if necessary, shaved to ensure that the electrodes adhere properly and to provide accurate readings. It's important for the patient to remain still and breathe normally during the test, as movement can interfere with the electrodes and lead to inaccurate results. The procedure does not involve any exposure to radiation and there are no risks directly associated with performing an EKG itself.