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Physicians offer various types of medical help, but two of the most common are diagnostic and preventative care. These approaches provide options to address current problems and reduce the risk of health issues developing. Below, Santiam Hospital in the Mid-Willamette Valley, OR, shares some facts about each type of care and how they differ.

What Is Diagnostic Care?

When you have a health issue and go to the doctor, they will provide diagnostic care. This means they will assess the problem before conducting tests, like taking blood or doing a biopsy, to come up with a diagnosis. Then, they will discuss and provide you with treatment. 

What Is Preventative Care?

Preventative care happens before a medical problem develops. In fact, the goal is to mitigate the risk of a health issue happening. Examples include having yearly cancer screenings, teaching kids about nutrition to prevent high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, and having your blood pressure checked.

What’s the Difference?

Diagnostic care assesses and reacts to current problems, while the goal of preventative care is to stop a health issue before it happens. It’s important for doctors to offer both forms of care to best address their patient's needs and reduce their chances of developing serious medical conditions when possible. 

 

If you need to set up an appointment to address a current issue or get a check up to avoid potential future medical problems, call Santiam Hospital at (503) 769-2175. They offer a wide range of services, including preventative care, as well as a comfortable, personal setting and a friendly staff. Visit the website to learn more.

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