News and Announcements

June is Men’s Health Month, a timely reminder that taking care of your health is not something to put off until a problem appears. It’s easy to skip routine checkups – it might mean a drive out of town to your healthcare provider, you might feel fine, be busy or just don’t like going to the doctor! But regular visits can help catch issues early, often before symptoms start, which can make treatment simpler and outcomes better.

Why routine checkups are so important

Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to protect long-term health. Regular medical visits can help identify concerns such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and certain cancers before they become more serious. Routine preventive care includes screening tests, vaccines, education, and counseling that help people stay well and catch problems early.

Why men often wait too long

For many men, there is a tendency to push health to the bottom of the list. Work, family responsibilities, fear of bad news, and the belief that symptoms will go away on their own can all lead to delayed care. But feeling “fine” is not always the same as being healthy, especially when many common conditions develop quietly over time. Your health is worth the drive!

For men in rural communities, making and keeping doctor appointments can be especially important because distance, demanding work schedules, and limited access to care can make it easier to delay visits until a problem becomes serious. Making and keeping those appointments helps build a relationship with a trusted provider, stay on top of screenings, and address concerns before they interfere with work, family life, or independence. In many cases, a routine visit today can help prevent a longer trip, a bigger health issue, or time away from the people and responsibilities that matter most.

What to talk about at your next appointment

• Your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight trends
• Recommended screenings based on your age, family history, and risk factors
• Your mental health, stress, sleep, and energy level
• Vaccines and routine preventive care you may be due for
• Any ongoing symptoms you have been ignoring or managing on your own

Seeing your doctor regularly is not a sign that something is wrong. It is a smart, proactive step that can help you stay healthy, protect your future, and show up fully for the people who count on you. This Men’s Health Month, consider making one appointment, asking one important question, and taking one step toward better health. Small actions now can make a big difference later.

Here’s what a few ICAHN member hospitals are doing for Men’s Health Month

Integrated Health provider Nicky Eustace, MD, ABFM, IFMCP, MSCP at Morrison Community Hospital has seen an uptick in men interested in testosterone consultations for low libido and other symptoms.

Marshall Browning Hospital in Du Quoin offers Community HealthCheck, a popular program open to anyone. It is a deeply discounted lab screening (only $40) that is offered every Tuesday by appointment. Specifically for men, it includes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. This screening has found prostate cancer in men who had no symptoms, as well as other health conditions. It is a wonderful benefit to individuals with high deductibles who cannot afford testing.

Memorial Hospital Chester is running a social media campaign during the month of June to promote screenings and checkups. It is titled “Be THEIR Hero – Get Screened!” and depicts men as superheroes with their children and grandchildren. The goal is to help men realize that their families depend on them to be around as long as possible and regular doctor’s visits and screenings can help them live a longer healthier life.