Please, Just Ask

Even though your relationship with your primary care physician is undoubtedly serious, many of us appreciate those who provide care alongside a daily dose of humor. Consider Physicians Regional's Dr. Jozsef Piri. Not only is he going to offer you excellent medical care and guidance, but the "good laugh" is all but guaranteed.

Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Dr. Piri received his medical education at the University of Debrecen-Faculty of Medicine in Debrecen, Hungary, the oldest continuously operating institution of higher education in Hungary (since 1538).

He completed his residency at the University of Connecticut, and today, he and his wife and biggest fan, Dr. Betty Kupracz, call Southwest Florida and Physicians Regional Healthcare System home.

"I would describe my husband's medical approach as respectful of a patient's beliefs and wishes," suggests Dr. Kupracz. "He will explain treatment plans, so patients feel comfortable with the choice they make. He encourages preventative lifestyle choices such as exercise, healthy eating, and adhering to medical care. Plus, he's funny and easy-going because, in the end, patients are the ones who benefit from the care, and their comfort matters."

Although I typically use this column to introduce a variety of physicians and specialties, you must also understand what you need to ask us. This is especially important when interacting with your primary care physician (PCP). After all, your PCP is your partner in navigating your current and future healthcare needs.

A recent article in U.S. News and World Report on "17 Questions Doctors Wish Their Patients Would Ask" inspired today's discussion with Dr. Piri. Although we're not covering all 17 today, Dr. Piri chose a few that spoke to him.

What preventive care services are right for me?

The U.S. News and World Report article correctly states that "preventive care is intended to target disease prevention and keep the patient healthy." Dr. Piri adds that this question increases in importance after age 50 and often results in discussions on diet, exercise, mammograms, prostate health, and the use of appropriate sunscreen, to name a few.

He also includes gun safety on his list of suggested topics. "I typically get a good laugh when I bring it up, but it's a genuine issue."

In addition, those under 50 are far from invincible and decisions made today directly impact their healthcare future.

Why are you prescribing this medication?

According to Dr. Piri, "It's common practice to review your list of current medications with a nurse, but that doesn't necessarily lead to a comprehensive medical review. Take the time to go over the list with your doctor, too."

This is especially important if you're changing physicians. "I can't tell you how many times I meet a new patient who has been taking medication for a particular condition for years and has no idea why."

If you're taking medication — any medication — and you don't know why, please ask.

How does my family medical history affect my risk for certain conditions?

U.S. News and World Report correctly asserts that "some medical conditions affect multiple family members across generations. If first-degree relatives, such as a parent or sibling, or even more distant relatives have heart disease, an autoimmune disease, or some types of cancer, you could be at higher risk."

Dr. Piri adds. "As we get older and become vulnerable to a wider variety of issues, an understanding of family history becomes more important. This is especially true of cardiovascular disease and cancer."

"Cardiovascular disease has become a bigger topic than cancer — especially since 40% of the population is obese. At least one-half of the patients in my office have a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 30, meaning those patients are considered obese. If it's a question of overweight vs. obese, medically speaking, I'll take overweight all day long."

So, why don't people ASK questions?

"Perhaps they are intimidated or afraid to ask. Maybe they don't want to appear dumb or fear they may be judged. I'm not here to judge anyone. You really can't surprise me at this point. I've heard it all, so just speak up," says Dr. Piri.

"Look at it this way: You wouldn't hesitate to ask your mechanic: 'Why is my muffler dragging on the ground?' With your doctor, a similar question may be: 'Why can't I lift my foot?' If it's good enough for your car, it's good enough for you. So ask. Always ask."

Dr. Piri is currently accepting new patients. To schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment with Dr. Jozsef Piri, please call 239-348-4221 or visit PhysiciansRegionalMedicalGroup.com to schedule an appointment online.