Starting the Year Healthy: Primary Care Tips for the Whole Family

NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 15 — A new year is the perfect time to reset routines, set goals, and make sure your family’s health is on track. Whether you’re caring for young children, managing your own wellness, or supporting aging loved ones, having a trusted primary care provider makes all the difference.

Primary care isn’t just about treating illness, it’s about caring for your family at every stage of life.

For Children: Building Healthy Habits Early

January is a great time to make sure your child is up to date on:

• Well-child visits and school physicals

• Immunizations

• Growth and developmental check-ins

Regular visits help catch concerns early and give parents peace of mind as kids grow and change.

For Parents: Don’t Put Your Health Last

Between work, school schedules, and family responsibilities, parents often delay their own care. The start of the year is a good reminder to:

• Schedule annual wellness visits

• Discuss stress, sleep, and mental well-being

• Stay current on recommended screenings

Taking care of yourself helps you better care for the people who depend on you.

For Seniors: Staying Ahead of Chronic Conditions

For older adults, consistent primary care is key to maintaining independence and quality of life. Regular visits can help with:

• Managing chronic conditions

• Reviewing medications

• Preventing complications before they arise

Having a provider who knows your health history ensures care that’s thoughtful and personalized.

Why One Primary Care Home Matters

When your whole family receives care in one place, it creates continuity and trust. A primary care home allows providers to:

• Understand your family’s health history

• Coordinate care more effectively

• Build relationships that lead to better outcomes

At BCHS, we focus on listening first because feeling heard is an important part of healing.

Start the Year with Care You Can Trust

The beginning of the year is a simple but powerful time to prioritize health for your entire family. Whether it’s a routine checkup or establishing care for the first time, primary care sets the foundation for a healthier year ahead.

New patients are always welcome.

About Baptist Community Health Services, Inc.

Founded in 2014, Baptist Community Health Services is a nonprofit, federally qualified health center with multiple locations, dedicated to delivering high-quality medical and behavioral health care. Rooted in a faith-based mission, the organization exists to ensure that all individuals – regardless of income, insurance status, language or background – can access the care they need and deserve.