No one wants an unplanned hospital trip. Adopting a few healthy habits can keep you feeling your best — and clear of the hospital.

1.   Take your medicines as directed. This means taking each medicine at the right time, in the right dose, as often as you’re supposed to. Taking your medications correctly helps keep any chronic conditions in check. Here are some tips that may help:

• Check in with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about your medicines or their side effects.
• Use a pill container to keep track of your medications. Be sure to refill it on the same day and time each week.
• If forgetfulness is a problem, use timers to remind you.

2.   Talk with your healthcare provider. He or she is one of your most important allies in good health. Be sure to keep your provider up to date about any health conditions or concerns. This includes mentioning any new or unusual symptoms and asking questions if you don’t understand your treatment plan.

3.   Keep up with preventive care. Routine preventive care, such as mammograms and colorectal cancer screenings, can find problems early, when they’re often easier to treat.

Download MyChart, an intuitive platform patients can use to access their medical record, keep track of healthcare services and appointments, schedule appointments, view test results and even communicate with their provider. MyChart is available via the internet and as a smartphone application.

See Your Provider Virtually
Columbus Regional Health is offering scheduled video visits — contact your clinic to make an appointment. For more information, go to crh.org/telehealth.

$25 Lung Cancer Screenings
Fast and painless, a low-dose CT lung cancer screening can help detect potential signs of lung cancer earlier when it is easier to treat. Call 812-669-1628 to schedule a quick checkup, or log on to crh.org/lung for more information