QUESTIONS & ANSWERS: DR. KASEY ABANONU, MD

‘I must be honest and say: Las Vegas’ medical care is ahead of most other places’

CenterWell Senior Primary Care supports every dimension of senior health — physical, emotional and social wellness — so you can live a healthier, happier life. When you become a CenterWell patient, you’re cared for by experienced, compassionate doctors and supported by a team of professionals focused on you with over 14 locations across the Silver State. 

One of CenterWell’s top physicians, Dr. Kasey Abanonu, MD, recently shared his views on today’s health care and how CenterWell is meeting the needs of our community.

What is your professional medical specialty? 

My specialty is internal medicine, and I have been practicing for close to sixteen years. I am originally from South Africa, and I came to the United States at the age of 16. I finished my undergraduate at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, and after that, I went to medical school.

What brought you to Las Vegas? 

When I finished my medical training, I was a traveling physician and received seven state licenses. I met my current wife, and she wanted us to be stable and wasn’t happy with all the traveling. She wanted us to settle down in one state. I met someone who was working at IPC at the time. and he encouraged me to come here. I have been practicing in Las Vegas since 2012.

How do you compare the medical environment in Las Vegas with other states and countries? 

I must be honest and say that Las Vegas’ medical care is ahead of most other places. I have practiced around the world, and I still think health care is way ahead here.

Minorities seem to be at the top of the list for many diseases. Why is that? 

I think it is a combination of factors that center around socioeconomic issues. Also, many are not educated on the various medical resources available to them. Some people also tell me that they appreciate seeing minority doctors at Centerwell and appreciate the diversity of medical professionals there to assist their healthcare needs.

What do you think makes CenterWell Senior Primary Care stand out amongst other medical clinics in Las Vegas? 

CenterWell takes care of the geriatric population; mostly people 65 or older. We do see younger people depending on the type of insurance — but mostly the geriatric population. The doctors at CenterWell are well trained and board certified. We practice holistic medicine. We just don’t see our patients as numbers, but as individuals. We spend time getting to know every patient. We only see 15 to 20 patients a day so we can give everyone the time they truly need for the best health care they need.

Do you think any other viruses are on the horizon such as COVID? 

If we look at history, pandemics are a part of history. The flu [near the turn of the 20th century] killed tens of millions of people. I believe that COVID is controlled at this point and eventually will be like the common cold. It won’t be the kind of thing that will put you in the hospital for a period. As our immune systems strengthen, it will be tolerable. Some people might still get really sick, but I think COVID will get to the point where health professionals can handle it.

Do you have any healthy tips to share for our personal health? 

Las Vegas is a hot environment and I always advise people to make sure they hydrate. When you go outdoors, carry a bottle of water, Gatorade, or Powerade with you. I always advise people that the best exercise is walking. Take a one-mile walk daily, and you will find that this will improve your overall health.