New year’s resolutions: Nurse gives health tips

A new year means new resolutions, often related to improving health.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and detecting possible issues require visits to the doctor, getting tests and seeking preventative care.

Many are unsure about whether they should see a doctor once a year, but it will depend on a few factors, according to registered nurse Jake Mossop.

“The emphasis isn’t really on the frequency, so much, as much as it is making sure you’re attached to a primary care provider who knows your individual health concerns,” Mossop said in an interview with CTV Your Morning on Thursday in Toronto.

If you’re in your 20s and 30s, it’s not necessary to see the doctor every year because of lower health risks. But people in their 40s and older are going to need to see the doctor more often, Mossop said.

You may need to see a doctor at least once a year if you have a chronic health condition and regular prescribed medications, he said.

People at certain ages may need tests and preventative screenings, he added.

Younger people who may be more sexually active require sexually transmitted infection (STI) screenings, while older people may need to get their blood pressure and cholesterol checked, he said.

Even with the need for checkups, many Canadians don’t have a family doctor because of a shortage.

Watch the video above to get more health tips.