The best prevention doesn ’t come from doctors, it comes from your everyday life. Entry 16 - 2009

I know someone, Jane, who goes to the doctor all the time. She has every ache, bump, rash or other symptom seen by a physician, usually a specialist. Jane often starts a statement with “my (insert a specialist type like orthopedic surgeon) says….” She is vigilant about regular check-ups and timely screening tests, which in her mind means she is practicing prudent prevention. < br / > < br / > The media (and discussions of healthcare reform), often limit their discussions of prevention to activities like check-ups and screening tests. A recent White House stakeholder ’s meeting included suggestions from physicians such as: " the best prevention is providing people with health insurance, " and that “employers allot a certain number of hours for regular preventative check-ups” (1). So, it’s no surprise that Jane feels this way. She checks and monitors everything (a lot), so that means she is health-conscious. < br / > < br / > < strong > < span style= " color: rgb(0, 0, 102); " > But, there is more to the story. < /span > < /strong > Jane eats a high-fat, high-sugar diet, does not exercise regularly, she is quite overweight, and takes several medications to manage several chronic issues. < br / > < br / > Which set of behaviors will protect her most: her medical care-seeking behaviors, or her own lifestyle? It ’s not an either-or proposition. What shape you are in when you arrive at the doctor’s office helps determine how helpful the medical system will be. <...
Source: Health as Human Capital - Illustrated Research Summaries - Category: Health Management Authors: Source Type: blogs