February: A Month for Healthy Hearts & Heartfelt Wishes

During the month of February, which is American Heart Month, for every patient who visits ASAP Urgent Care, ASAP will give $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Connecticut, Inc.  The organization grants wishes to children with severe health conditions and ASAP believe wholeheartedly in its mission.

In addition, through a special arrangement with Quest Labs, ASAP is offering heart health check-ups – free blood pressure screenings and full lipid profiles for just $20.

So, why is there a special month dedicated to the heart?  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov), every year about 715,000 Americans have a heart attack.  Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women, accounting for about one out of every four deaths each year.  While heart disease can refer to many different heart conditions, the most common type in the U.S. is coronary heart (or artery) disease, which causes heart attacks.

The CDC says cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, costs the U.S. well over $300 billion each year.  That total includes health care services, medications, and lost productivity.

But, there’s good news.  Heart disease can be prevented and controlled.  Although some health conditions and lifestyle factors can put people at a higher risk for developing heart disease, making healthy diet and exercise choices and managing medical conditions is a good first step toward prevention.  Check out the CDC’s website for more information and to read about simple steps to take every day for better heart health.

About ASAP Urgent Care
Founded in Connecticut by doctors with over three decades of experience, ASAP Urgent Care is dedicated to providing a better solution for people who have urgent medical needs.  In addition, ASAP offers occupational medicine, online doctor visits, and diet and sleep aid for patients of all ages.  ASAP Urgent Care also has employer services to help keep businesses running and employees healthy with a wide range of services from diagnostics, to flu clinics, to drug screenings, and more.

Centers are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except on Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Through ASAP’s website, patients can check in online as well as can video conference with healthcare professionals from the comfort of their own homes.  ASAP Urgent Care centers are open in Hamden (203-248-2727) and Madison (203-318-8000).  The chain will open facilities in Milford and North Haven in early 2014.  For more information, visit www.ASAPGetBetter.com and connect with ASAP on Facebook.