Florida reported nearly 8,000 melanoma cases in 2017 alone. Although that statistic may seem alarming, the good news is that regular skin exams can spot the signs of a changing mole as early as possible.  Because early detection is linked to a 99% survival rate, our team at Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO & Associates is a big proponent of regular skin cancer…

As experienced family physicians and medical providers, our team at Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO & Associates provides medical care whether you’re sick or injured, but we’re also here when you feel good too.  Physical exams — including well-woman exams, pre-employment physicals, and sports exams — are a key pillar of your health plan.  We use physical exams to evaluate your health, monitor…

When it comes to avoiding viruses, prevention is the best strategy. One of the most well-known virus prevention strategies is through vaccines.  Unfortunately, there’s not a vaccine available for every type of viral infection. That leads to the second prevention strategy: building a strong and healthy immune system.  As family medicine physicians, our team at Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO…

If you have a mild sore throat, you probably know that you don’t need to visit the hospital emergency room. But it’s not always so easy to tell the difference between a minor emergency and one that requires a trip to the ER.  Understanding what constitutes a minor emergency can help you determine which type…

You’re probably already familiar with the idea of an annual physical, but you may not be familiar with the ins and outs of a well-women care exam. Today, we’re here to answer common questions about well-women exams.  This annual checkup is like a regular physical but with an added emphasis on diseases and conditions that affect…

As the pandemic continues to evolve, family practices must continue to be attentive to the outbreak of COVID-19. This includes taking proactive steps to safely manage patients while protecting providers and staff. Dr. Bridget Bellingar and our dedicated staff at Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO & Associates in North Seminole, Florida, are making strides to ensure you can receive the family…

When it comes to vaccines, conversations tend to focus on childhood immunizations, but did you know that even adults need boosters? That’s right. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has schedules for both adults and children so everyone knows what vaccines they need — and when. In light of current events, you’re not alone if…

Almost all adults have at least one mole. Some people are born with moles, and some develop moles over time. Those moles are called acquired moles. With growing awareness about melanoma, it’s OK if you have questions about your moles. That’s why our team here at Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO & Associates is happy to answer all of your questions…

Are you fed up with lotions and creams that promise youthful skin but fail to deliver? That’s because lotions just hydrate, but to really turn back the clock, you need to focus on collagen and elastin. These essential proteins promote youthful skin by helping your skin retain moisture, resist gravity (and the resulting sagging), and…

Physical exams are designed to evaluate your condition, capabilities, health risks, and any injuries/conditions you might have. As your body changes, it’s important to undergo annual physicals to monitor any developments in your health. These physicals can be used by employers, coaches, teachers, and doctors to get a better idea of your overall condition.  Dr….