Given the fact that we live in an age of information overload, one would assume people would follow routine health checkups seriously. This is especially true because a lot of health-related information stresses the need for early detection and preventive care. However, you’d be surprised to know that nearly 34% of Americans between the age of 18 to 64 have not spoken to or met their doctor in the past year. Around 46% of Americans are not serious about managing their hypertension. This is despite the awareness that ignoring hypertension can lead to heart disease and stroke. But why do people avoid seeing their doctor? And how can we solve this problem?
● Transportation Issues:
This is a common problem for the elderly, especially those with chronic health issues. There have been several studies that prove that a lack of transportation facilities is likely to be a major barrier to health care access, leading to a lack of preventive medical care and missed medical appointments. Patients with degenerative diseases like Osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s are more likely to be at risk for injuries – some of which could lead to prolonged bed-rest.
● Distrust:
Trust is the fundamental aspect of a solid doctor-patient relationship. Some people, motivated by past incidents develop a deep distrust of doctors. There’s a group of people who’d rather Google their symptoms and look for help from dotcom doctors. Thanks to a relentless and reckless sharing of medical information, we now have patients who do not trust doctors any longer. Besides, dotcom doctors do not have the time to listen to patients. They rarely know anything about the patient’s lifestyle or family history.
● Embarrassment:
People are often embarrassed to discuss problems like incontinence, impotence, anxiety, rashes/changes in the nipple, etc. for fear of being judged. Obese patients, diabetics, or those with a smoking or drinking problem are afraid of being condemned by their doctor.
The Solution:
A few decades ago, it was not uncommon for a physician to visit their patients and treat them in their home. However, this has changed with managed healthcare and the introduction of advanced diagnostic tools. Now, patients visit the doctor, rather than the other way round. Our solution involves going back to where it all started, i.e., providing primary care from the comfort of the patient’s home. An average house call doctor in Anaheim spends anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour for every patient. This allows the doctor to understand and empathize with the patient’s problem. At Prestige House Care, we humanize healthcare services without compromising on quality or competency.
