Offset the Symptoms of the Winter Blues and Seasonal Affective Disorder
As winter approaches, some people experience the “winter blues,” feeling sad from shorter days, climbing into bed earlier, and not ready to wake up on dark mornings. “Winter blues” are different from Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.), a type of depression related to the change in seasons. SAD begins and ends at the same time every […]
Do I Have a Cold or The Flu?
What is the difference between a cold and the flu? The common cold and influenza (flu) are both contagious respiratory illnesses that share similar symptoms, making it difficult to tell the difference between them, especially during the cold and flu season (late fall to early spring). The key difference is that different viruses cause them. […]
Understanding Hypertension
What You Need to Know (And How Direct Primary Care Can Help) Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting adults in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1 in 2 U.S. adults has hypertension, yet only about 1 […]
Five Myths About Depression — Debunked for 2025
Mental health is health, and it’s time we treat it that way. Depression remains one of the most common, misunderstood health conditions in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults lives with depression. And among Gen Z, that number climbs even higher, with nearly 1 […]
Spring Allergies: Why 2025 Is Hitting Harder—and How to Stay Ahead
Spring has sprung, bringing longer days, warmer weather—and for many, relentless allergy symptoms. Sneezing, sniffling, itchy eyes, and sinus pressure are just the beginning of what Dr. Jon Van Der Veer, CEO at Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care, says is shaping up to be one of the worst allergy seasons in recent years. Why Are […]
Four Key Numbers for a Healthy Heart
Know Your Numbers Maintaining a healthy heart starts with knowing your key health numbers. Here are four important numbers that help you monitor heart health: 1. Blood Pressure – Aim for 120/80 mmHg or lower High blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to heart disease and stroke. Regular monitoring helps you take action early with lifestyle […]
Keeping Your Health In Check During The Winter
Health and wellness are important all year long. Winter brings cold, dry weather and brings forth various health concerns. Here are some common issues and practical tips to help you navigate the colder months. Arthritis Approximately 1 in 5 US adults suffer from arthritis, and according to the Arthritis Foundation, cold temperatures and changes in […]
Are Your Employees Turning to the ER More Often Than Necessary?
As an employer, you might have noticed a concerning trend: employees heading to the emergency room (ER) for health issues that could easily be addressed through more convenient care options. You’re not alone—this is a common challenge many organizations face. The Costly Misstep of ER Visits Frequent ER visits not only strain healthcare resources but […]
Why Do Children Break Bones? Common Causes and How to Prevent Them
One minute, your child is happily running around the playground, laughing with friends. The next, they’ve tripped, fallen, and are in tears. A visit to urgent care might reveal a broken bone, or fracture, which is quite common among kids. It’s a fact that between 30% and 40% of children will experience a fracture […]
Cholesterol Awareness Month: How Direct Primary Care Helps You Take Control of Your Health
September is Cholesterol Awareness Month, a great time to take charge of your heart health. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. Understanding your cholesterol levels and taking steps to manage them early can make all the difference in preventing chronic diseases. Cholesterol levels are […]