Physicians Immediate Care, one of the region's premier providers of ambulatory and urgent health care, urges residents of the Treasure Coast to take precautionary measures when venturing outdoors. "As summer approaches and daylight increases, people spend more time outdoors," said Kenneth Palestrant, M.D., founder of Physicians Immediate Care. "Whether gardening or relaxing at the beach, people are encouraged to take protective measures to reduce the risk of sunburn and developing melanoma," added Dr. Palestrant.

Dr. Palestrant recommends choosing a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB sunrays. UVA rays, which penetrate the skin more deeply, cause pigmentation, premature aging and some types of skin cancer. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn, pre-malignant skin lesions and some types of skin cancer. "Use a high-quality product with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15 or higher," recommended Dr. Palestrant. Check ingredients to make sure that a sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection. "While most sunscreens do a great job of protecting against sun damage, you should not rely on sunscreen alone," added Dr. Palestrant. Regardless of its SPF, no sunscreen will remain effective longer than two hours. Reapplication is necessary.

Dr. Palestrant cautions that sunscreen alone does not provide total protection from harmful sun exposure. Limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen on a regular basis will reduce your risks of skin damage and other harmful effects due to sun exposure. He suggests following these additional sun protection tips.

*Avoid unnecessary sun exposure, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

*Use sunscreen daily and reapply often, even when it's cloudy, while driving or working under office light.

*Provide further protection by wearing a broad-brimmed hat and long sleeves when outside.

"Should you develop a suspicious skin lesion, particularly if it is irregular in shape, bleeds, or itches, or should you have a mole that changes in appearance, we are ready to see you seven days a week, without an appointment," said Dr. Palestrant.

Physicians Immediate Care measures its success through patient satisfaction and extraordinary care. Physicians Immediate Care also offers employers professional services for workers compensation, routine exams, and drug testing. Physicians Immediate Care provides a convenient, cost effective alternative to emergency rooms and doctor's offices from their original facilities at 1900 SE Port Saint Lucie Boulevard and at 4007 SW Port Saint Lucie Boulevard in the Paar Center. Physicians Immediate Care provides prompt medical attention, with no appointment necessary, Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. For additional information call (772) 398-1588.