Author Archives: akinzer

Dr. Ariel Warden-Jarrett on Good Day DC to Discuss Flu and Cold Prevention

Dr. Ariel Warden-Jarrett Featured on Good Day DC to Discuss Flu and Cold Prevention

Dr. Ariel Warden-Jarrett from MPCP’s Bowie office joined Fox 5 DC to share expert tips to avoid cold and flu this fall—just in time for the holidays!

Catch the full segment from Good Day DC with Steven Chenevey and learn how simple lifestyle changes and proactive health habits can keep you feeling your best all season long.

Watch here: https://www.fox5dc.com/video/1547202

Protect Your Vision: Understanding and Managing Diabetic Retinopathy

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss and blindness in people with diabetes. It damages blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. As high blood sugar levels cause these blood vessels to swell, leak, or become blocked, vision may be disrupted, often without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred.

Why Annual Eye Screenings Are Crucial

Diabetic retinopathy often shows no symptoms in its early stages. By the time vision changes occur, the disease may be advanced. Comprehensive, yearly dilated eye exams are essential for early detection and treatment, helping to prevent or slow disease progression​.

The Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy

Stage 1: Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)

  • Early Stage: Many people with diabetes experience this stage, which occurs when tiny blood vessels in the retina leak and cause swelling.
  • Macular Edema: If the macula (the part of the retina responsible for central vision) swells, it can lead to vision loss. This is the most common cause of vision problems in diabetic patients​.

Stage 2: Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR)

    • Advanced Stage: The retina starts to grow new, fragile blood vessels.
    • Vision Risks: These new vessels often bleed into the vitreous (gel-like center of the eye), leading to floaters or even total vision obstruction​.

Risk Factors for Diabetic Retinopathy

Anyone with diabetes—Type 1, Type 2, or gestational—can develop diabetic retinopathy. Risk factors include:

  • Duration of Diabetes: The longer you have diabetes, the greater your risk
  • Uncontrolled Blood Sugar: High levels over time increase complications
  • High Blood Pressure & Cholesterol: These can exacerbate the damage to blood vessels
  • Pregnancy: Gestational diabetes increases risk
  • Tobacco Use: Smoking accelerates disease progression​

Manage Your Diabetes to Lower Risk

Effective diabetes management can reduce your risk of developing or worsening retinopathy:

  • Stay Active: Regular exercise can help control blood sugar
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
  • Take Prescribed Medications: Follow your doctor’s guidance for insulin or other treatments​

Take Charge of Your Vision Health

Annual diabetic retinopathy screenings are a key component of diabetes care, offering early detection of eye changes before symptoms arise. This simple, painless process includes administering eye drops to dilate your pupils and allowing your doctor to examine the retina for signs of leaking or abnormal blood vessels. Routine screenings can prevent vision loss through timely intervention, making them a vital part of managing your diabetes.

Convenient Screenings at MPCP

Maryland Primary Care Physicians (MPCP) offers in-office diabetic retinopathy screenings, making it easier to integrate proactive eye care into your diabetes management. Our approach provides:

  • Convenience: No need for separate appointments at external clinics.
  • Comprehensive Care: Screenings are seamlessly incorporated into our patient-centered diabetes care plan.
  • Proactive Health Monitoring: Detecting potential complications early allows for personalized care tailored to your needs.

Take control of your eye health today. Visit your patient portal to schedule your diabetic retinopathy screening at MPCP and protect your vision with compassionate, coordinated care designed to support your overall wellness. 

 

Maryland Primary Care Physicians (MPCP) and Physicians Management Group (PMG) Appoint Kelly Cavallio as New CEO

Maryland Primary Care Physicians (MPCP) and Physicians Management Group (PMG) Appoint Kelly Cavallio as New CEO

Experienced Healthcare Leader Brings Fresh Vision for Patient-Centered Care and Innovation

Annapolis, MD – Maryland Primary Care Physicians (MPCP) and Physicians Management Group (PMG), a prominent primary care provider across Maryland, are pleased to announce the appointment of Kelly Cavallio as Chief Executive Officer. With nearly 30 years of healthcare leadership experience, Cavallio brings a fresh vision for integrating technology with personalized, patient-first care. 

Cavallio’s approach aligns with MPCP and PMG’s dedication to empathy and excellence, positioning her as an ideal leader to drive the organization’s expanding network into the future.

“I’m excited to join Maryland Primary Care Physicians and Physicians Management Group, an organization that shares my commitment to compassionate, personalized care,” said Cavallio. “The future of healthcare demands innovation—using advanced technology to improve patient outcomes and accessibility. I look forward to expanding telemedicine, enhancing appointment systems, and elevating the patient experience with the same strategies that transformed care at Johns Hopkins. Together, we will continue MPCP and PMG’s legacy of compassionate care while driving progress toward a more efficient, patient-centered future.”

A Proven Leader in Healthcare Innovation

Cavallio comes to MPCP and PMG from Johns Hopkins Medicine where she most recently served as Senior Administrator for Pathology and Lab Medicine. 

She led initiatives that improved operational efficiency, enhanced care, and transformed healthcare delivery through digital tools. She has a wealth of experience working across the health system in operations management, information technology, analytics, financial management, strategic planning, and capital planning. Her ability to integrate technology into healthcare will help MPCP and PMG deliver faster, more personalized care tailored to the community’s needs.

Empowering Healthcare Teams for Success

At Johns Hopkins, Cavallio’s people-first leadership reduced staff turnover and boosted team engagement. She brings a commitment to fostering a collaborative environment at MPCP and PMG, providing healthcare professionals with the resources they need to thrive.

“When healthcare professionals feel supported, the quality of care they deliver improves,” said Cavallio. “My goal is to build strong, collaborative teams that provide exceptional care to every patient.”

A New Chapter for Maryland Primary Care Physicians and Physicians Management Group

Under Cavallio’s leadership, MPCP and PMG are positioned for a new era of growth and innovation. Her proven track record and dedication to patient-centered care will drive the organization’s mission forward. As a Baltimore native, Cavallio’s deep connection to the community will further strengthen MPCP’s role in delivering compassionate, accessible care across Maryland.

About Maryland Primary Care Physicians and Physicians Management Group

Maryland Primary Care Physicians (MPCP) is a network of family doctors, and internists providing primary care services throughout Maryland. Physicians Management Group (PMG) oversees MPCP’s centralized services, including executive oversight, marketing, IT, HR, and onboarding. Together, MPCP and PMG prioritize compassionate, accessible, and quality healthcare for patients of all ages.

For further information, please contact:
Fred Rost, Director of Marketing: [email protected] 

 

Protect Your Health: Simple Steps to Manage & Prevent Diabetes

Protect Your Health: Simple Steps to Manage & Prevent Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting around 38 million Americans, with 90-95% of them having Type II diabetes. When blood sugar, or glucose, is too high, it can lead to serious health complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart, and can even increase the risk for certain cancers. The good news? With the right steps, you can lower your risk and manage diabetes to live a healthier, more vibrant life.

Lifestyle Interventions Can Help with Diabetes Prevention

Unfortunately, the number of Americans with Type II diabetes is growing – as is the number of Americans with prediabetes. Prediabetes is defined as having elevated blood sugar, before reaching the levels needed for Type II diabetes. 

About 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. has prediabetes, yet over 80% aren’t aware. Without action, many could develop type 2 diabetes within five years. However, it is possible to prevent progression or even reverse prediabetes through simple lifestyle interventions like a well-balanced diet, staying active, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Ask your MPCP physician if you’re at risk for diabetes or prediabetes, and learn steps to protect your health.

Know the Symptoms

Regular screening is key, especially if you have risk factors for Type II diabetes. Early detection can make all the difference. Knowing the symptoms can help you know when you should request screening or speak with your physician:

  • Increased Thirst
  • Frequent Urination
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred Vision

Risk Factors You Should Know

While some risk factors can’t be changed, others are within your control. Major risk factors include:

  • Being overweight or obese
  • Leading a sedentary lifestyle
  • High blood pressure
  • Family history of diabetes

If you have one or more of these risk factors, consider talking to your MPCP physician about screening options and lifestyle adjustments.

Take Action to Lower Your Risk

  1. Choose a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables. Limit sugary and processed foods to help keep blood sugar stable.
  2. Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly. Regular activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps regulate blood sugar.
  3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports healthy blood sugar levels and supports your overall wellness.

Keep Up with Screenings: Regular check-ups can catch changes early. If you’re at risk, ask your MPCP physician about scheduling a diabetes screening.

For Those Managing Type II Diabetes—Small Changes, Big Impact

If you’re managing diabetes, daily habits are crucial. Here are a few tips to stay on track:

  • Monitor Blood Sugar: Regular checks help you understand how food, activity, and medications impact your levels.
  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress affects blood sugar. Try techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or hobbies to reduce stress.

Check Your Feet: Diabetes can cause circulation issues, particularly in the feet. Inspect your feet daily to catch potential issues early.

Ask Your MPCP Physician

Concerned about your risk of developing Type II diabetes or need guidance on managing it? Your MPCP physician can help you create a personalized plan that aligns with your lifestyle and health goals.

Take control this Diabetes Awareness Month—get in touch to connect with your MPCP provider for support and guidance to protect your health and live well with diabetes.