Managing chronic diseases is crucial to improving your quality of life and preventing complications. At Three Rivers Concierge Medicine, Dr. Kathryn Shoemaker offers a comprehensive chronic disease management plan tailored to your specific health needs. By working closely with you, we aim to control symptoms, minimize complications, and help you live a healthier, more active life.
Chronic Disease Management Q & A
What is Chronic Disease?
Chronic diseases are conditions that last for an extended period of time—often years—and can affect your ability to perform everyday tasks. Some chronic diseases are manageable with the right care, while others require ongoing monitoring and treatment. Common chronic conditions include:
- Heart disease
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Asthma
- Arthritis
- Emphysema
- Chronic pain conditions
- Dementia
![Doctor measuring patient's blood pressure.](/sites/default/files/styles/paragraph_image_small/public/media/images/2025-01/iStock-175264754.jpg?itok=ofZPH-Iu)
While chronic diseases can affect many areas of your life, proper management can help you live better, with fewer complications.
What is Chronic Disease Management?
Chronic disease management is a patient-centered approach to help individuals manage their long-term health conditions effectively. Dr. Shoemaker will work with you to develop a personalized plan that considers your medical history, lifestyle, and unique health challenges. We focus on prevention, symptom management, and minimizing the impact of chronic conditions on your daily life.
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What Will My Chronic Disease Management Plan Include?
Your chronic disease management plan is specifically tailored to your condition and needs. Common aspects of the plan include:
- Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Addressing unhealthy habits like smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise that can worsen your condition.
- Regular Monitoring: Routine tests and check-ups to track the progress of your condition and detect any complications early.
- Medication Management: Prescribing and adjusting medications as needed to keep your condition under control.
- Treatment for Comorbidities: Addressing any other health conditions you may have that could affect your chronic disease management, such as mental health or sleep issues.
- Support and Education: Teaching you how to manage your condition on your own and offering support when needed.
![Person injecting insulin into their abdomen.](/sites/default/files/styles/paragraph_image_small/public/media/images/2025-01/diabetic-patient-using-insulin-pen-making-insulin-injection-home-young-woman-control-diabetes-diabetic-lifestyle.jpg?itok=qd21m3yh)
How Does Chronic Disease Management Benefit Me?
By staying on top of your chronic condition with regular check-ups, symptom tracking, and lifestyle changes, you can prevent complications, reduce hospitalizations, and improve your overall well-being. Chronic disease management focuses on giving you the tools and support to maintain a high quality of life, even with ongoing health challenges.