Most people make the same health-related New Year's resolutions every January 1st-quit smoking, lose weight, exercise more, eat healthier foods. But there are a number of other important steps you can take that can have an even greater impact on your health in the New Year and the years to come.

Get control of your medical records
If you see more than one doctor, chances are your medical records are scattered between the offices of several health care providers. Often, one physician is unaware of the treatment you're receiving from another. What would happen if you were to fall ill or be injured and arrive at a hospital, perhaps one in another city or even outside the U.S.?

Your safety and the opportunity to receive the best and most appropriate treatment are exponentially increased when all the medical professionals you see, either in an emergency situation or on a regular basis, have access to a complete, comprehensive record of your medical history and treatment.

Recognizing the critical nature of consolidated records, all Members of PinnacleCare have consolidated, comprehensive medical records stored in a secure, fire-proof vault which can protect the information in the event of a natural disaster. Some have elected to take advantage of the Company's innovative encrypted USB-port key chain, the PinnacleCare Key™, that houses a family's entire medical record (along with advance directives and other important data) in a doctor-friendly manner. This enables their treating physicians to have rapid access to the complete information essential to an accurate diagnosis.

The benefits of the consolidated medical record are many. Members do not have to repeat their medical history each time they visit a new doctor. Tests will not be needlessly repeated wasting time and money. Dangerous drug interactions can be avoided. When a PinnacleCare Member saw a specialist for kidney problems, the physician was amazed the member brought his complete medical history with him. The doctor commented that with the full records immediately available, he was able to provide a much better, more efficient level of care.

Screenings save lives
At what age should you start having a yearly mammogram? A prostate exam? Screening for diabetes or heart disease? There is a wide range of preventive screenings available that can detect life-threatening diseases and conditions early and offer the opportunity to begin treatment sooner.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, which was created by the U.S. Public Health Service and is sponsored by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, recommends the following screenings:

For men:

Cholesterol check every five years starting at age 35; starting at age 20 if you smoke, have diabetes, or a family history of heart disease
Blood pressure check every two years
Colorectal cancer screening starting at age 50
Diabetes test
Depression screening
Sexually transmitted disease screening
Prostate cancer screening

For women:

Mammogram every 1 to 2 years starting at 40
Pap smear every 1 to 3 years if you're older than 21 or have been sexually active
Cholesterol check regularly starting at 45; starting at age 20 if you smoke, have diabetes, or a family history of heart disease
Blood pressure check every two years
Colorectal cancer screening starting at age 50
Diabetes test
Depression screening
Sexually transmitted disease screening
Osteoporosis screening with bone density test starting at 65 or earlier if you weigh less than 154 lbs.

Some doctors recommend more frequent and rigorous screenings, so it's important to ask your physician what tests he or she recommends.

A strong doctor-patient relationship is essential
As in all good relationships, open, honest communication is vital in the doctor-patient relationship. As you move into the New Year, ask yourself if you're comfortable with all your physicians. Do they take time to answer your questions? Do you have confidence in their skills? Can you get an appointment when you need one?

If your answer is no to any of these questions, you should look for a new doctor. (PinnacleCare Members have accelerated access to top experts and hospitals in every medical field.)

A healthy future is within your power
Take some time as the year comes to a close to put these New Year's resolutions into effect in your life and make important strides toward a healthier future.