By Danielle Rexrode
Since moving from Carroll County to Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Md., Louise Dempsey is a lot closer to her doctor. In fact, they now share the same address!
Thanks to the convenience of the on-campus medical center, Louise can easily schedule annual checkups and blood work or swing by for a flu shot.
“It’s so convenient, having my doctor right here on-site. I use the medical center for my primary care doctor, specialists, and things like vaccinations,” she says. “That’s a big benefit!”
The doctor is in
Staffed with three full-time physicians, three nurse practitioners, a social worker, and a podiatrist, it’s easy for residents to receive quality, senior-focused care at the medical center.
Although Louise was satisfied with her former doctor before she moved to Charlestown 11 years ago, the convenience of having her primary care provider right down the hall just made sense.
“Our residents have greater access to care without ever leaving campus,” says Dr. Myla Carpenter, medical director at Charlestown.
The medical center offers 60-minute new patient appointments, and all subsequent visits last 30 minutes.
Surveys show that the average wait time for a primary care new patient appointment is 26 days. An appointment with a specialist is even longer, with the average wait to see a dermatologist at 34 days. And the median primary care office visit in the United States lasts just 15.7 minutes.
“Our physicians take all the time they need to address your health needs and answer your questions,” notes Carpenter. “This dedication and commitment to not only treating but also getting to know patients on a personal level extends throughout the practice.”
Freedom to choose
Several specialists also visit the medical center from time to time for residents’ convenience.
“You can see a visiting dentist, cardiologist, dermatologist, ophthalmologist, and orthopedic specialist without ever leaving ‘home,'” says Carpenter.
Residents are welcome to continue seeing their current primary care provider and specialists–and use the medical center for things like flu shots, tests, and screenings.
“We just ask that you schedule a CarePath appointment at the medical center, so we can have your medical history on hand, including any medications and allergies,” she explains. “In case of an emergency, this helps us come up with the best treatment plan based on your health history.”
Continuum of care
As a continuing care retirement community, Charlestown also offers additional services designed to support residents who would benefit from higher levels of care–including rehabilitation, assisted living, memory care, and long-term care.
As former chair of the health committee for Charlestown’s Resident Council and current resident liaison between independent living and continuing care health services, Louise was already familiar with many of the benefits of the community’s on-site health care.
But when an unexpected medical procedure necessitated a hospital visit, she experienced several of the benefits firsthand.
“After my hospital stay, I had inpatient rehabilitation and physical therapy here at Charlestown’s rehabilitation center,” Louise recalls. “Then, once I returned to my apartment, they came to me three times a week. It was great because everything I needed was right here. It couldn’t be any more convenient!”
Holistic approach
Prioritizing residents’ overall well-being, Erickson Senior Living offers integrated programs and amenities that support physical, mental, and spiritual health.
In addition to meeting residents’ medical needs, Charlestown offers numerous other ways for residents to live healthy lives, including wellness experts at the state-of-the-art fitness center and nutritious menu options in the campus restaurants.
“But I can’t say enough about having the medical center and continuing care right here on-site,” says Louise, who appreciates having so many amenities and services at her fingertips. “It makes you feel good to know you are covered no matter what.”
Invest in your future self at Charlestown. From top-notch amenities to affordable, maintenance-free homes, you are sure to live your retirement to the fullest. Request more information today!
