What is chronic disease management?
A recent study found that comprehensive and intentional patient education can improve the attitudes, as well as self-management capabilities, of people who suffer from a chronic disease. It’s just this sort of empowerment that the team at Rochester Primary Care embraces — helping patients to help themselves in the face of an illness.
All too often, chronic disease can leave you feeling powerless and at the mercy of your medical care. Dr. Surendran takes an approach that balances your medical oversight with steps you can take on your own, outside of your medical care. This approach to chronic disease management gives you the tools you need to improve your health and your quality of life.
What are the most common chronic diseases?
Considering that half the adult population in the U.S. suffers from a chronic disease (and forty percent have more than one chronic disease), the list is a considerably long one. A chronic disease is defined as one that lasts for 3-4 months or more and requires ongoing medical care. Also part of the definition is any condition that places limits on your abilities to function on a day-to-day basis.
The most common chronic illnesses that fall within these parameters and require expert management are:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Pulmonary disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
- Cancer
- Allergies and asthma
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Depression and anxiety
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
If you’re impacted by any of these diseases, the caring team at Rochester Primary Care is here for you.
What’s involved in chronic disease management?
The main goals of chronic disease management at Rochester Primary Care is to improve your quality of life, control your disease, and prevent complications. To do this, the doctors rely on several methods, including:
- Vigilant monitoring and testing
- Referrals to specialists
- Medications
- Patient education
Dr. Surendran stay abreast of the latest developments to ensure that their patients with chronic illnesses get the care they need.
For expert chronic disease management, call Rochester Primary Care, or use the online scheduling tool to set up an appointment.
