Understanding Continuity of Care
Being a board-certified family medicine physician, I’ve witnessed a troubling trend among young patients: a reliance on urgent care for their primary health needs. While urgent care facilities play a critical role in reducing the burden on emergency rooms, they do not provide the same benefits as continuity of care with a primary care physician. Building a relationship with a doctor over time allows them to understand your unique health history and preferences, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
The Holistic Nature of Health
There’s a common misconception among young people that consuming the right vitamins or superfoods equates to good health. True health, however, is multifaceted. While a diet rich in healthy foods is important, neglecting other factors like sufficient sleep can negate its benefits. Health maintenance requires a balanced approach addressing multiple aspects of wellbeing.
Beware of Unnecessary Health Practices
Many young individuals opt for screenings, blood tests, or trendy health treatments without medical necessity. Such practices are often unproven and can sometimes be harmful. There’s emerging evidence that excessive consumption of certain antioxidants could increase cancer risks. Remember, there are no shortcuts to good health.
The Right Use of Specialists
Primary care physicians are trained to handle common conditions and determine when a specialist’s input is necessary. Consulting subspecialists for simple health issues can be inefficient. Primary care should be your first stop for most health concerns, with referrals to specialists as needed. This approach ensures efficient and effective care.
Appearance vs. Actual Health
Looking healthy doesn’t always mean being healthy. Physical appearances can be deceiving, as individuals with ideal body weight might still suffer from poor mental health or unhealthy internal metrics like high cholesterol. Regular preventive visits to the doctor can ensure internal health aligns with external appearances.
Prioritize Quality of Life
Young people often dismiss the importance of longevity, focusing more on the present. Yet, maintaining good health isn’t only about living longer but also enhancing the quality of life. A healthy lifestyle allows for independence and the enjoyment of activities. Even minor lifestyle changes can greatly impact one’s well-being and independence in the long term.
Rising Reliance on Urgent Care
Aflac’s new wellness survey revealed that many young adults primarily rely on urgent care for medical needs, a trend seen across the US. Though convenient, foregoing regular primary care could result in unaddressed health issues. Regular check-ups and following medical advice can prevent more serious health problems in the future.
The Misunderstanding of Exercising vs. Diet
The belief that one can exercise more to offset poor dietary habits is flawed. Exercise alone cannot compensate for a deficit created by poor nutrition. Understanding caloric intake versus expenditure and the nutritional value of food is crucial, as junk food typically provides empty calories and can encourage overeating.
Cholesterol Risks in Youth
Cholesterol isn’t just an issue for the older population. In fact, cholesterol-related problems can begin early in life with fatty deposits forming in arteries. This can lead to cardiovascular issues like heart attacks and strokes later in life. Young adults should not ignore cholesterol’s importance and seek regular health screenings.
Mental Health Matters
There’s a stigma around seeking mental health support, seen as a sign of weakness, when in fact it can be as essential as physical health care. Therapy can provide vital support for cognitive and emotional well-being, which in turn, positively impacts physical health. Recognizing the value of mental health support is crucial for overall wellbeing.
