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Updates

Starting Wednesday, September 3, the Town of Fishkill will be closing and paving the portion of Merritt Blvd that connects to Route 9.

Important Detour Information:

  • This road closure will require patients to take a detour that may add at least 20 minutes to travel time.
  • The detour route passes through school zones, and local schools will be in session starting next week. Please plan accordingly and drive safely.

Effective September 15, 2025, Plainview CardiologyGastroenterologyPrimary Care at 1181 Old Country Rd and Primary Care at 789 Old Country Rd will be relocating to a new, state-of-the-art multi-specialty center at 1600 Old Country Road in Plainview.

Recording/Photography Not Permitted on Premises

Office and Urgent Care Closures

The Croton-on-Hudson lab is temporarily closed until further notice.

COVID-19 Information and Updates
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The Latest from Optum

Radio interview recap: Dr. Axelrod on the importance of prostate cancer screening

4 June, 2025
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Optum Medical Care, P.C.
Radio interview recap: Dr. Axelrod on the importance of prostate cancer screening

Listen to the audioListen to the full interview on Radio Catskill’s website

Following former President Joe Biden’s recent diagnosis with advanced prostate cancer, the spotlight has returned to men’s health—particularly the importance of early detection and proactive care. In an interview with Radio Catskill, Dr. Sheldon Axelrod, a urologist at Optum Care, shared valuable insights on what men should know.

Start prostate cancer screening early

Dr. Axelrod recommends:

  • Age 50 for men at average risk
  • Age 40–45 for those at higher risk, including African American men and those with a family history

“Early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms. That’s why regular screening is so important,” he explained.

Prostate cancer screening and treatment

  • PSA blood test and digital rectal exam are key tools
  • Follow-up may include MRI or biopsy
  • Treatment options range from active surveillance to surgery or radiation, including robotic-assisted procedures

Lifestyle and prevention

While some risk factors like age and genetics can’t be changed, Dr. Axelrod encourages men to take control of their health through:

  • A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
  • Regular physical activity
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol
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