Belinda Elisha, MD, explains why primary care is preventative care:
Why did you decide to become a primary care physician?
I knew early on in medical school that I wanted to focus on internal medicine and be a primary care doctor. I am very interested in overall health. Practicing primary care allows me to focus on a patient’s wellbeing, not just one specialty or system. I get to take a health journey with each of my patients. Together we make decisions about how we can best care for them.
What is your approach to building relationships with your patients?
Before I see a patient, I review their record to see what I can learn. I want to understand their health history, lifestyle, what they may be going through and where they are. This approach helps me make a real connection. Taking the time to talk with and listen to my patients puts them at ease. When they feel comfortable, they open up and share important details with me.
Why did you choose to practice at St. Mary’s in Lewiston?
I came to St. Mary’s Medical Associates in April 2025. I wanted to work in a smaller city that would allow me to get to know my patients and have them get to know me. I want my patients to trust me and the practice’s entire team. I was also drawn to St. Mary’s mission to provide healing care for the whole person because it aligns with my own values.
How do you welcome new patients?
I welcome different patients in different ways. For example, I speak French. When I meet patients who also speak French, we chat and immediately have something in common. In other cases, I try to find common ground by talking about a patient’s work, family or interests.
How does primary care keep a patient’s health and wellness on track?
Primary care is preventative care, which is essential. At a minimum, I want my patients to be:
• Receiving routine and recommended vaccinations
• Eating a well-balanced diet – Planning meals and snacks that include protein, grains, vegetables and fruits, and limiting foods high in unhealthy fats, sugar and salt
• Getting enough rest and sleep – Going to bed on time and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
• Making time for exercise – Moving your body every day by taking an exercise class, working out at home or taking a daily walk
Keeping a patient’s health and wellness on track also requires me to review their immunization status, evaluate their cognition, assess their mobility and discuss their mental health.
What screenings do you recommend for your patients?
Recommendations depend on a patient’s gender, age, health history and risk factors.
For Everyone
• Blood pressure – During every visit, at least 1–2 times per year
• Cholesterol – Once a year
• Diabetes – Beginning at age 35, especially for overweight patients
• Colorectal cancer – Beginning at age 45
For Women
• Cervical cancer – Beginning at age 21
• Breast cancer – Starting at age 45
• Osteoporosis – Initial screening after menopause
For Men
• Prostate cancer
• Testicular cancer
St. Mary’s Medical Associates is located at 330 Sabattus Street in Lewiston. To learn more, visit stmarysmaine.com.
To make an appointment, call 207.777.8810.
