When it comes to women’s health, a Pap smear or mammogram is just the beginning. Local health leaders say prevention—through screenings, wellness visits, and community programs—is essential for women of all ages.
Dr. Patrina Philip King, a board-certified OB-GYN with Sun River Health and a member of the Sullivan 180 board, has spent most of her career caring for women in underserved communities.
“Women are the foundation to communities. They contribute to the wellness of society, social, and the economic viability of the community,” King said.
Prevention Goes Beyond Cancer Screenings
King emphasized that preventive care is more than routine gynecological exams. It includes:
- Cardiovascular risk assessment and screening
- Colorectal cancer screening and referrals for colonoscopy
- Reproductive and sexual health evaluations
- Perimenopause and menopause care
“Most folks tend to associate going to the GYN with having the Pap smear done. Well, that’s not all that we do,” King said.
She noted that fear, embarrassment, or misconceptions often lead women to delay care, particularly for procedures like colonoscopies or mammograms.
“Some people fear the unknown. I encourage folks to engage in discussions with their providers about whatever concerns they may have or reluctance,” King said.
Annual Well-Woman Visits Are Essential
King stressed that the annual well-woman visit provides a comprehensive approach to health:
- Cancer screenings and risk assessments
- Communicable disease and STI screenings
- Prenatal care and contraceptive counseling
- Mental health and cardiovascular screening
“Do not sit on your health. Prioritize your health and schedule a well-woman visit,” King said.
Community Prevention Programs Make a Difference
Sullivan 180, the nonprofit dedicated to public health, supports prevention through school programs, community partnerships, and wellness initiatives.
“At Sullivan 180, our focus is on creating conditions for people to be healthy before a crisis ever occurs,” said Meaghan Mullally-Gorr, director of health and wellness.
“Prevention is about building a healthier environment, not just changing individual behavior.”
Programs include:
- Wellness policies in public schools
- Community gardens and fitness initiatives
- Vaping prevention programs
- Collaboration with local healthcare providers
King highlighted the long-term benefits of community prevention, including reduced healthcare costs, healthier students, and stronger families.
Myths and Misconceptions About Women’s Health
King addressed several common misconceptions:
- Breast implants: Women still need regular mammograms. Specialized techniques and supplemental imaging, like ultrasounds, are used to ensure full screening.
- HPV vaccine: Women older than 26, up to age 44, can receive the vaccine to prevent cervical cancer.
- Annual visits: Even if a Pap smear isn’t needed every year, an annual well-woman visit is critical for personalized health planning.
Mullally-Gorr also emphasized that prevention isn’t only medical. Social connections, volunteering, and engaging with the environment contribute to mental and physical health.
“There are so many opportunities to prevent chronic illness and support mental health,” she said.
Takeaway
For women unsure where to start, King recommends making that first appointment for a well-woman visit.
“Do not put off your health. Prevention matters for you, your family, and your community,” King said.
Sullivan 180 is a financial supporter of Radio Catskill.