Encore Journal

Welcome to our blog! Here, you'll find valuable insights, tips, and updates on healthcare topics that matter to you. As a concierge medical practice, we focus on providing personalized, top-tier care, and our blog will cover everything from wellness advice and preventive care to the latest in medical innovations. Check back often for new articles designed to help you live your healthiest life.

Rethinking Hormone Therapy for Midlife Health: What the Food and Drug Administration’s Label Change Means for Women and Men in Chicago

Learn how the FDA’s 2025 update to hormone therapy labeling is changing midlife care. At Encore Concierge Medicine in Chicago, we help women navigate menopause, hormone balance, and long-term wellness with personalized, evidence-based medicine.

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Julia Gold Julia Gold

How to Find Trusted Medical Guidance Online | Encore Concierge Medicine Chicago

The internet has changed how we learn about our health—for better and for worse. Social media can empower patients with knowledge, but it can just as easily spread confusion and fear. Trusted, physician-led organizations like the AAFP, AAP, ACOG, and AHA provide evidence-based information designed for patients—not algorithms. At Encore Concierge Medicine, our goal is to help you navigate this overwhelming landscape with clarity and confidence.

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Why You Feel So Tired: Overstimulation, Stress & Lifestyle | Encore Concierge Medicine Chicago

Feeling tired all the time isn’t normal—and it’s not something you have to accept. From constant stimulation and poor sleep to daily stress and nutrient gaps, many factors quietly drain your energy. Learn how Encore Concierge Medicine helps uncover the root causes of fatigue and restore balance, focus, and vitality.

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How to Assert Yourself at the Doctor’s Appointment | Encore Concierge Medicine Chicago

If you’ve ever left an appointment feeling unheard or rushed, you’re not alone. Time limits and crowded schedules often make it hard for patients to ask questions and get answers. This post shares simple, practical ways to advocate for yourself and partner with a doctor who truly listens—so you get care that feels personal, not perfunctory.

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How to Stay Healthy While Traveling: Smart Strategies for Every Trip

Traveling doesn’t have to derail your health. From managing jet lag and staying hydrated to supporting your immune system on the go, these doctor-approved tips help you feel your best wherever you’re headed. With a little planning and intention, you can explore freely—without sacrificing your wellness along the way.

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Julia Gold Julia Gold

Why Encore Doesn’t Bill Insurance—And Why That’s a Win for You

The healthcare system is constantly evolving, and while it serves many, there are still opportunities for improvement.

Long wait times, brief visits, unexpected costs, and insurance requirements can sometimes make it challenging for people to access care in a way that feels truly personalized and seamless.

At Encore, we’ve chosen a different path. By not billing insurance, we’re able to offer a more transparent, patient-centered experience—one that prioritizes longer visits, clear pricing, and care tailored to your unique needs.

It’s healthcare designed with you in mind.

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Julia Gold Julia Gold

February is Heart Health Month—Here’s How to Take Care of Yours

Your heart is the engine that keeps your body running, yet heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. It affects millions every year—but the good news? Many forms of heart disease are preventable with the right lifestyle choices and proactive healthcare.

At Encore, we believe in personalized, preventative care that helps you take control of your heart health before problems arise. Let’s dive into some simple, effective ways to keep your heart strong this February and beyond.

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Health, Wellness, Aging Julia Gold Health, Wellness, Aging Julia Gold

The Art of Aging Well: Why It’s Gaining Momentum and How to Embrace It

Aging gracefully is no longer just about appearances—it’s a comprehensive movement emphasizing physical health, mental well-being, and lifestyle choices that enhance longevity. As scientific advancements and wellness trends gain traction, more people are seeking ways to not only live longer but to do so with vitality and purpose.

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Julia Gold Julia Gold

Addressing Medical Trauma: The Importance of Compassionate, Judgment-Free Care

Medical trauma refers to the emotional and psychological distress experienced as a result of traumatic medical events or healthcare encounters. This can include invasive procedures, life-threatening illnesses, medical errors, or interactions where patients feel dismissed or misunderstood by healthcare providers. Such experiences can lead to lasting negative effects on a patient's mental and emotional well-being.

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Julia Gold Julia Gold

Why More People Are Choosing Concierge Medicine Over Traditional Healthcare

Navigating today’s traditional healthcare system often feels like an overwhelming challenge. From long waits for appointments to rushed visits that leave you feeling unseen, the frustrations can build quickly. It’s no wonder that more people are turning to concierge medicine and direct primary care (DPC) models to find a better, more personal approach to their health.

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