It’s been about two years since your last doctor’s visit, and you’re long overdue for a physical, preventative screenings, and management of a few chronic conditions, including hypertension and diabetes. The good news? A primary care doctor in Annandale, VA can handle every one of them at the same visit, starting with your annual physical and your blood pressure monitoring.
In fact, Dr. Connie Le has managed those conditions at Annandale Primary Care since she founded the practice in 2005. Here’s what you can expect at your first visit with Dr. Le.
What Can I Expect at a New Patient Appointment With a Primary Care Doctor in Annandale, VA?
At the beginning of your visit, you and Dr. Le will discuss what brings you in to the office today. If you don’t have any acute concerns, then the two of you will talk about your past medical history, your family history, as well as any chronic conditions you’re currently managing. So, feel free to share your experience with hypertension and diabetes, including how well your current medications are controlling your symptoms. This will help Dr. Le gain a comprehensive understanding of your health background and identify any factors that may influence your current health status.
Are My Blood Pressure and Diabetes Still Adequately Controlled Under Dr. Le’s Care?
This is a common concern, and one you should absolutely share with Dr. Le. If you’re worried about new or worsening symptoms, she’ll also want to know if you’ve experienced any of the following, for how long, and if they’re constant or come and go:
- Numbness or tingling in your feet
- Changes in your vision
- Increased urination
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Balance problems
- Memory issues
Rest assured, now that you’re under Dr. Le’s care, she will thoroughly manage your chronic conditions and preventative healthcare.
Can I Have My Physical, Preventative Screenings, and Chronic Conditions Managed at the Same Primary Care Appointment?
Yes. In addition to performing your head-to-toe physical exam and recommending preventive screenings, consistent with your age, past medical history, and family history, Dr. Le will order a lipid panel, an A1C, and kidney function labs to get baseline readings on your cholesterol and blood glucose levels. Subsequently, you can plan on a blood draw to test following your physical exam.
Next, your primary care doctor in Annandale, VA will check your blood pressure in the office and inquire if the numbers are higher or lower than your typical readings. If your blood pressure has been higher than usual during home checks, Dr. Le may also recommend an EKG to assess your heart health. Here, you can find answers to your most frequently asked questions in our post on high blood pressure treatment in Fairfax.
At your next visit, based on your blood pressure logs, she may recommend a dose change in your hypertension medication or a recheck in a few months. In the event your A1C comes back at 6.1 or above, Dr. Le will review your current medication and dosing. If your A1C continues to rise, you’ll have a more in-depth discussion about medication options and diabetes care.
Lena Landis, MS, CNS, LDN, our nutrition specialist, will also sit down with you to figure out a way you can incorporate more lean proteins, leafy greens, and fresh vegetables into your diet.
Will I Always See the Same Primary Care Doctor at Every Visit?
One of the biggest advantages of having a dedicated doctor is continuity of care. For annual visits, screenings, and chronic condition management, you’ll always see the same provider. However, should the need arise for you to have a same-day appointment, we’ll do our very best to schedule you with your primary care physician. You can read our post on same-day urgent care for non-emergency needs in Fairfax.
You’ll also have the option to see another member of our clinical team who works closely with your primary care doctor in Annandale, VA. Both the Annandale, VA office on Evergreen Lane and the Fairfax, VA office maintain the same chart.
Schedule Your Visit at Annandale Primary Care
You’ll leave your first visit with Connie Le, MD, knowing your numbers, what each one means for your heart, and when you’ll be back. Call Annandale Primary Care at 703-642-6633 to book your physical.