 BCHS physician to discuss managing chronic disease
Chronic conditions are the major cause of illness, disability, and death in the U.S. despite the fact that much is known about how to prevent chronic disease and delay or avoid many related complications.
Dr. Mary Ellen Benzik, family medicine physician and member of the Battle Creek Health System medical staff will discuss managing chronic disease - 'What is important for patients and caregivers to know' on Wednesday, August 6, at the Burnham Brook Center.
Senior Health Partners in coordination with Battle Creek Health System presents the program as part of its ongoing 'Aging Well' series, which is free to the public. A light luncheon will be served at 11:30 a.m. followed by Dr. Benzik's presentation at noon. Seating is limited. For reservations call toll free 1-877-GO2-BCHS (877-462-2247).
Nearly half of all Americans live with a chronic medical condition and this number is expected to rise by 25% during the next two decades.
"In our region, patients with multiple chronic conditions represent at least 20% of the population and account for over 60% of the health care costs," says Dr. Benzik. "Examples of chronic diseases include diabetes, congestive heart failure, asthma, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis, emphysema, and multiple sclerosis. Despite the wide variety of chronic diseases, there are many similar concerns for those who live with them."
The program will cover the common and multiple concerns related to these conditions such as - knowing how to recognize and respond to changes in a chronic disease using medicines and treatments effectively, finding and using community resources, maintaining good nutrition, making decisions about when to seek medical help, working with your doctor(s) and other care providers, talking about your illness with family and friends, and managing work, family, and social activities.
Health concerns are generally classified as either acute or chronic. Acute illnesses usually begin abruptly and last only a short time. Most people with an acute illness can expect to return to normal health. "A 'strep' throat is an example of an acute illness because it's easy to diagnose with a lab test and is treated with antibiotics," says Dr. Benzik.
Chronic diseases are different. They usually develop slowly, last long periods of time, and often are never cured. The long-term effects may be difficult to predict. Some conditions cause few problems. Others cause only episodic problems or symptoms that can be controlled with medication. However, in some cases, a chronic disease may severely limit a person's ability to work, go to school, or take care of routine needs. You and your physician can work together to develop a treatment plan to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Patient self-management aims to help improve chronic disease care and curb the escalating economic and public health impact of chronic illness. Through daily decisions about diet, exercise, self-measurement, and medications, people with chronic illness are encouraged to play the central role in determining the course of their diseases.
So, to be successful, patients need the support of their health care providers to make and sustain changes in these areas. Although chronic diseases are among the most common and costly health problems, they are also among the most preventable and most can be effectively controlled.
Senior Health Partners, a collaboration of Battle Creek Health System, Burnham Brook Center, and Summit Pointe, works to expand wellness and educational offerings to senior citizens in Calhoun and surrounding counties. For more information about senior programs, visit the SHP web site at http://www.seniorhealthpartners.com or call (269) 441-0948.
About the Presenter
Mary Ellen Benzik earned her medical degree from the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. She completed her residency in family practice at MacNeal Hospital, Berwyn, IL. In 1991 she began her family practice career in Battle Creek. Dr. Benzik is a Diplomate of the American Board of Family Practice and is board certified in family medicine, including obstetrics. Dr. Benzik is medical director for Integrated Health Partners, a physician hospital organization that connects primary and specialty care physicians with BCHS forming an integrated health care delivery system. She is also instrumental in helping coordinate the Calhoun County 'Pathways to Health' initiative.
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