3 steps to better health this fall

Oct 31, 2022 12:03PM ● By Courtesy of StatePoint Media

As people return to their fall routines many find themselves spending more time worrying about the health of their things than the health of themselves.

According to new research by Evernorth company MDLIVE, 67% of people view fall as a time to get back into routines, pointing to reprioritizing schedules, getting kids started in the new school year and prepping for winter. However, only 20% of people say they are on top of routine doctor visits. Instead, they’re prioritizing the health of their homes and their cars more so than preventive care for their personal health.

Why are Americans so avoidant when it comes to caring for their physical wellness? Time, or lack of it, is one major factor. Despite 56% of people recognizing that putting off personal health affects how well they can care for other aspects of their lives, 47% say they put off routine health tasks because they are too busy. Another factor is cost—39% of respondents say prioritizing health would be too expensive or force them to dip into money they have earmarked for other things.

“The majority of people with employer-sponsored health insurance have access to low-cost or no-cost preventive care, and millions can now access routine preventive care virtually through their health plan,” said Dr. Vontrelle Roundtree, interim MDLIVE chief medical officer.

According to Dr. Roundtree, there are three simple steps people can take as part of a fall preventive health routine that is low-cost and requires little time:

1. Keep up on vaccines:

Some experts predict a challenging flu season combined with the risk of other infectious diseases, all while bracing for a potential COVID surge. It’s critical to get your flu shot and stay current on COVID boosters.

2. Stay current on screenings:

Routine screenings are the first line of defense against many common illnesses. Addressing early signs of those conditions can often keep them from becoming chronic. However, since the start of COVID, screening rates for a number of conditions have fallen. Take an inventory of any overdue doctor or preventive care visits, such as screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal and skin cancer, and make the time to get them done.
Check your health plan to see your options, such as virtual wellness screenings that can save you a trip to the doctor’s office. They may be available to you at a $0 copay depending on your health plan.

3. Take control of chronic conditions:

Those living with chronic conditions should review their medications and dosages with their doctor to ensure they are up to date and to determine if anything should be changed or stopped.

“The fall season, with its focus on fresh starts, is the perfect opportunity to turn your attention to preventive healthcare,” said Roundtree. “After all, your health is your most valuable asset.”