FCHS encourages regular wellness exams to support lifelong heart health
JACKSBORO, Texas (Feb. 5, 2026) — As February marks American Heart Month, Faith Community Health Systems is reminding area residents that one of the most important steps in protecting heart health is also one of the simplest: scheduling regular wellness exams and staying informed about personal risk factors.
Heart disease continues to be one of the leading causes of death in the United States, yet many of the conditions that contribute to heart disease — including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity — can often be identified early through routine care. Wellness exams provide an opportunity for patients and providers to have meaningful conversations about heart health before problems arise.
“Many heart-related conditions develop quietly over time,” said Frank S. Walker, MD, general surgeon at Faith Community Health Systems. “A person may feel perfectly fine while blood pressure or cholesterol levels are slowly increasing. Regular wellness visits allow us to monitor those changes and take action early.”
Wellness exams typically include screening for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood glucose, weight, and other indicators that can signal increased cardiovascular risk. These visits also give providers a chance to review family history, lifestyle factors, and existing medical conditions that may affect heart health.
“Knowing your numbers is one of the most powerful tools patients and their healthcare practitioners have,” Dr. Walker said. “Once we understand where someone stands, we can work together on a plan to manage risk and support long-term heart health.”
In addition to screenings, wellness exams create space for discussions about everyday habits that influence cardiovascular health. Providers at Faith Community Health Systems encourage patients to talk openly about diet, physical activity, stress levels, sleep, and tobacco use, all of which play a role in heart function.
“Heart health isn’t shaped by one appointment,” said Dr. Walker. “It’s built through consistent care and small, practical choices made over time. Wellness exams help keep those conversations ongoing.”
American Heart Month also serves as a reminder that prevention is most effective when care is continuous. Establishing a relationship with a primary care provider allows for better tracking of changes over time and more personalized recommendations based on an individual’s health history.
“For patients who come in year after year, we’re able to see trends and address concerns sooner,” Dr. Walker said. “That continuity of care is especially important when it comes to preventing heart disease.”
LNAME also encourages patients to be aware of symptoms that may indicate a heart-related concern, including chest discomfort, shortness of breath, unexplained fatigue, dizziness, or swelling in the legs or feet. Any sudden or severe symptoms should be treated as a medical emergency.
Family history can also play a significant role in cardiovascular risk. Dr. Walker recommends discussing any history of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, or diabetes with a healthcare professional during wellness visits.
“Understanding family history gives us valuable insight,” Dr. Walker said. “It can help guide screening schedules and preventive strategies, particularly for patients who may be at higher risk.”
While Heart Month highlights cardiovascular health during February, providers emphasize that heart monitoring should be a year-round priority.
“Our goal is to help patients stay proactive,” said Dr. Walker. “Heart Month is a great reminder to schedule a wellness exam, but ongoing care is what truly supports long-term health.”
Faith Community Health Systems encourages individuals who have not had a recent wellness exam — or who have questions about their heart health — to contact their local clinic and schedule an appointment with a medical provider – www.fchtexas.com/clinics