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Gary says... Drink Driving in New Zealand has far reaching impacts on health & wellbeing and families & friends

Introduction: Drink driving has profound and devastating effects on families, friends and wider the communities in New Zealand. This report examines the emotional, psychological, and financial repercussions that are faced as a result of alcohol-impaired driving, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures to address this issue.Emotional Trauma: Families affected by drink driving often experience profound emotional trauma. Losing a loved one or witnessing a family member suffer severe inj...

Gary says... Not Following your Prescribed Medication Regimen can cause Real Consequences

Taking prescribed medications as directed by healthcare professionals is a crucial aspect of managing various health conditions. However, the failure to adhere to medication regimens can have serious consequences on both the individual's health and overall well-being. This report aims to explore the results of not taking prescribed medications and highlight the importance of medication adherence.One of the primary outcomes of not taking prescribed medications is the worsening of the underlying h...

Gary says... Hypoglycaemia & Diabetic Syncope are a real thing for experiencing these issues.

Hypoglycemia, defined as low blood sugar levels, is a condition that can have significant effects on the body, including the occurrence of syncope, or fainting. Syncope is the temporary loss of consciousness caused by a sudden drop in blood flow to the brain. Understanding the relationship between hypoglycemia and syncope is crucial for effective management and prevention.When blood sugar levels drop below normal, the brain is deprived of its primary energy source, glucose. As a result, the brai...

Gary says... Lets take a look at Heart Disease

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, refers to a group of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. It is a leading cause of death worldwide and encompasses various conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and valvular heart disease.Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease. It occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrow or blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits called plaques. T...

Gary says... Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) - What do we know?

Gary says... Primary care physicians play a vital role in the detection and management of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). MCI refers to a condition where an individual experiences mild cognitive decline that is beyond what is considered normal for their age, but not severe enough to be classified as dementia.Here's how primary care physicians contribute to the detection and management of MCI:Diagnosis: Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cog...

Building and "Opening for Business" Update:

We have clarity with how our building is progressing so far. With the revised timeline for opening the clinic, it is unfortunate that there has been a slight delay - it's understandable that there may be delays in construction projects, while it's also important to ensure that the clinic is fully equipped and ready before opening to the public and patients. The end of July is when we anticipate being able to furnish the clinic with all the necessary items, instruments, and décor ...

Building Update

The building is moving along well:- we have windows installed- the building is confirmed to be water-tight by next week - Pink Batts are onsite and ready for installation- Electrics have been installed- Plumbing has been installed - Security wiring will be installed this week- Have been told the GIB will arrive this week and fixed once the wiring has been completedWe have come along way and have been confirmed we are on track to a July opening date. There is a lot happening in the background to ...

Gary says... We need better Access to Healthcare.

Enrolled Patient SubsidiesPrimary Health Organisations (PHOs) in New Zealand are responsible for ensuring that individuals have access to primary health care services, such as general practitioner (GP) consultations, immunizations, and health education. The government funds PHOs to provide these services, and most people in New Zealand are eligible to enrol with a PHO for free.Cost Effective VisitsEnrolment with a PHO is typically done through a general practice, and as of October 2022, almost a...

The Build Update - April 18, 2023

Gary says... Can't wait to see more changes happening over the next few weeks.Progressing along well - hopefully windows in before the end of this week....

Gary says... What is the process for Renewing your Driver Licence for the Elderly

Renewing your Drivers Licence for SeniorsIt's important to note that driver license renewal requirements can vary by location, so it's always a good idea to check with your local Waka Kotahi to determine the specific renewal requirements for your area.However, based on the information you provided, it appears that in some locations, once you turn 75, the renewal process for your driver's license may include the following:             1.    &...

Gary says... Living with Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depressive Disorder) can be extremely challenging.

Gary says… Mental health disorders can be wide and varied – here the focus surrounds those affected by Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depressive Disorder).Bipolar Disorder is a mental health state that has wide consequences not only on the individual but also affecting those surrounding the person in question. Fully understanding what an individual is going through can sometimes make the journey less stressful for all.According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2019, an estimated 970 milli...

Gary Says he wants to know - What is Diabetes?

Gary Says.... What is Diabetes?Diabetes is a disorder of blood sugar (glucose) and insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas and plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels in the body. In people with diabetes, the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or the body becomes resistant to the insulin it produces (Type 2 diabetes), leading to high blood sugar levels. This can cause a range of health problems if left uncontrolled.Type 1 diabet...

Gary says... Prostate Cancer is one issue that Men are too shy to discuss this matter?

This content has been medically reviewed by:Dr. Pawan KattiM.S., M.Ch., F.MAS Urology, 13 years of experience of researchProstate cancer is something very few men want to discuss or even acknowledge, because in part, it is having to talk about your manhood or the area of your manhood, but it can also be the most devastating health concern facing many men today if left untreated or undiagnosed.Myth 1: Prostate cancer surgery will end your sex life and cause urine leakage.Myth 2: Only elderly...

Gary says... Changing GP Practices becomes a Should I OR Shouldn't I dilemma.

Gary Says he like to talk about... Changing Practitioners and Health ClinicsLevin Family Health uses a whole team approach to model their intention to provide healthcare to patients within the local areas of Horowhenua, Foxton, Shannon, Otaki, Palmerston North, Waikanae, and Paraparaumu.If you've recently moved or have decided to change practices for any reason, it is important to get registered as soon as possible. Before you make your selection, it is worth taking the time to check out differe...

Gary says... Men's Mental Health is something should be highlighted.

Gary Says...It is important to prioritize our mental health and wellbeing just as much as we prioritize our physical health. Having a healthy mind means being able to manage the challenges and stressors that come with daily life, and having strategies in place to help maintain balance and connection. This is especially important for those living in rural areas, where access to mental health resources may be limited. Unfortunately, there is still a stigma surrounding mental health, which can...

The Framing is UP!

Gary Says...Keeping people informed and engaged in matters of health and wellbeing is so important, especially during these challenging times. It's good to have a mix of lighthearted content and serious topics to keep things balanced and interesting.I'm sure that our updates will be informative and thought-provoking, and I look forward to posting more for you in the future. Please let me know if there's anything Levin Family Health can do to assist in our efforts to keep you informed and engaged...