As the number of people working from home continues to grow, more businesses are shifting to a hybrid model in which some employees work from home and others are based in the office. This shift can be difficult for both employees and managers, especially with the ongoing threat of COVID-19.
As you start to prepare for your first day on the job, there are a few things you need to take care of first, namely, getting a few routine checkups out of the way. Here are four doctors you should visit before heading into your new office:
Primary Care Physician
Your primary care physician (PCP) is your go-to doctor for everything from the common cold to more serious health concerns. If you don’t have a regular PCP, now is the time to find one. Your insurance company can likely provide you with a list of in-network doctors near you.
Take some time to read online reviews and ask friends and family for recommendations. After you’ve chosen a PCP that you’re comfortable with, schedule an appointment for a physical examination and any other vaccinations or tests needed based on your age, medical history, and lifestyle. For example, if you’re taking medicine regularly, it’s important to seek expert help in order to prevent dependency issues.
If you get sick in the future, your PCP will be the first person you should call. They can help you determine whether you need to come in for an appointment or if your symptoms can be treated at home. They might also be able to provide you with a medical certificate if you need to miss work.
OB/GYN
If you’re a woman of childbearing age, seeing an OB/GYN at least once per year is important. In addition to annual checkups, your OB/GYN can help you with birth control options, managing your period, and more. If you don’t have an OB/GYN yet, ask your PCP for recommendations or look for in-network doctors near you.
Some things you should consider when looking for an OB/GYN are:
- whether they offer convenient appointment times
- whether they have experience with patients like you
- if they’re located near your workplace or home
You might also want to find out if the OB/GYN is part of a group practice so you can see the same doctor each time.
Mental Health Professional
It’s not uncommon to feel anxious or stressed about starting a new job. For instance, you might be worried about the commute, whether you’ll like your co-workers, or if you’re qualified for the position. If these feelings are interfering with your daily life, it’s time to seek help from a mental health professional.
Therapists can help you manage anxiety, talk through stressful situations, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. If you don’t have a therapist yet, ask your PCP for recommendations or look for in-network providers near you. Without keeping your mental health in check, you might find it difficult to adjust to the demands of a new job. Moreover, your therapist can provide you with a note if you need to take time off from work due to anxiety or stress.
Remember, stress can cause detrimental effects on your physical health as well, so it’s important to take care of your mind and body. By keeping your health in check, you can avoid having to call out sick or take time off from work in the future.
Dentist
A healthy smile is an important part of making a good first impression at your new job. It’s important to visit a dental expert at least once per year, even if you don’t have any noticeable problems with your teeth. During a routine cleaning and examination, your dentist can identify potential issues early on and recommend treatment options.
If you haven’t been to a trusted dentist in a while, now is the time to schedule an appointment. Some employers also require a dental exam as part of their new hire paperwork, so it’s best to get this out of the way before your first day.
When choosing a dental expert, it’s important to consider the following:
- Location: You’ll want to find one that’s close to your workplace or home
- Office hours: Some dentists offer early morning or evening appointments
- Payment options: Many dental offices accept major credit cards and offer payment plans
If you have dental insurance, you should also find out if the dentist is in your network. By staying on top of your oral health, you can avoid having to miss work in the future due to a preventable issue.
Starting a new job is an exciting time in your life! As you prepare for your first day on the job, don’t forget to schedule appointments with the aforementioned doctors. These routine checkups will ensure you’re healthy and well-prepared to take on your new role.
