Health Blog

Getting a screening colonoscopy can detect cancer early when it’s more treatable. That’s why colonoscopies are considered the gold standard for detection. But a new study discovered that the experience and skill of the gastroenterologist who performs the procedure can affect your risk of being diagnosed with colon cancer or dying from the disease. The... Read More

There are some infectious diseases, such as chicken pox, that can usually be treated by your primary care physician. But other, more serious infections can be difficult to diagnose correctly and require the care of a specialist to ensure you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment. With many infectious diseases, getting the right diagnosis... Read More

If you’ve been diagnosed with a serious, complex, or rare medical condition or your physician has told you that you need surgery, the next step you take should be to seek a second opinion. What difference can a second opinion make? A very significant one in many cases. Reason #1: To protect yourself against misdiagnosis... Read More

If your child was seriously injured or ill, you’d most likely take him or her to the closest emergency room. But not all emergency departments (EDs) are adequately staffed and equipped to provide safe, appropriate care to children. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 20 percent of ED visits are for children, but only... Read More

One of the keys to getting the healthcare you need is open, honest communication. You need to share all pertinent information with you doctor to ensure you receive the correct diagnosis and treatment. But communication is a two-way street. Your doctor also needs to be a good communicator. So how can you determine if your... Read More

According to a survey conducted by Gallup, only about 30 percent of Americans feel the need to seek a medical second opinion or gather additional information about their health problem or proposed treatment. But second opinions are crucial, especially for people who are diagnosed with complex or serious health conditions, because medicine is an art... Read More

When you think about the top causes of death in the U.S., what likely springs to mind are diseases like cancer and heart disease and car accidents. While heart disease and cancer are the first and second leading causes of death, the third is actually preventable medical errors. But there are steps you can take... Read More