6 Health Shortcuts You Should Never Take

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4. You regularly use the pharmacy drive-through
Every year, pharmacists make a whopping 52 million medication-dispensing mistakes, such as giving out the wrong drugs or doses. When researchers at Ohio State University recently surveyed more than 400 pharmacists, they named drive-through windows as one of the top causes.

"Most drugstores staff only one pharmacist," says Tomaka. "Having to deal with patients in cars is one more task to pay attention to, which means more opportunity for slipups." If a carful of rowdy kids or a rainstorm prevents you from making it inside the store, Tomaka suggests that you double-check the medication to make sure your prescription is correct before driving away from the window (this is something you should be doing no matter where you pick up your Rx). "Examine the name of your doctor and the drug," he says, "as well as the dosage and usage directions."

5. You never floss because you rinse with mouthwash
"Mouthwash can reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth," agrees Sally Cram, M.D., a periodontist in Washington, D.C. "But only floss can remove the decay-causing plaque and food lodged between your gums and teeth." Floss once daily, no matter how tired you are. The ideal oral hygiene routine: "Brush, floss, then rinse with mouthwash," she says.

6. You consider your gynecologist your primary physician
If you're rarely sick, it may seem efficient to have your ob-gyn check your cholesterol and blood pressure levels during your annual exam. But doing so can leave you vulnerable. "A primary care physician has a better grasp on your overall health and can spot issues, like hypothyroidism and depression, that your gynecologist isn't necessarily looking for," says Ted Epperly, M.D., president-elect of the American Academy of Family Physicians, which recommends a physical once every three years. But if you move or change health insurance providers, make an appointment with a new doctor even if you aren't due for a checkup. Building a relationship early means you’ll have someone to turn to if you do become sick.

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