Prevention — the cheapest medicine
From Dr. Gabe and Dr. Linda Carroll
Carroll Family Chiropractic
Creston
In her article "Prevention — the cheapest medicine" on Wednesday, June 24, Stephani Finley expressed her concerns about the "lack of prevention, or at least the lack of support for prevention" in the American health care system. She also expressed a desire for counseling "about diet, exercise and stress relief instead of "drugs and surgeries after the fact." She goes on to state "prevention is the cheapest medicine" and "preventative measures would bring down the costs of health care in general."
We agree entirely that preventative care is the cheapest medicine and it is a shame that insurance companies do not include more preventative services in their coverage. We also believe that Americans should take initiative and seek out preventative care on their own. Although this approach will cost consumers money in the short term, long-term health care savings would drive down insurance prices and save individuals money in premiums.
With the current focus of medical professionals on diagnosing and treating conditions that have occurred due to a lack of preventative care, doctors have become accustomed to treating those who are already sick. While medical doctors would no doubt love to discuss preventative care for their patients, patients rarely schedule an office visit to talk about the lifestyle changes they need to make. Therefore, a large part of preventative care falls into the hands of other specialists: massage therapists, dietitians, physical therapists, athletic trainers, chiropractors or mental-health providers.
As chiropractors, our goal is to restore movement and promote healthy lifestyles. At our office we focus on an individual's overall health and attempt to give patients recommendations on wellness care including diet, home exercises, stretches or postural advice.
Ultimately, preventative care comes down to initiative and compliance on the part of the patient. Whether committing to an exercise program, eating a healthy diet or getting a yearly physical, Americans have the option to improve their own health. In the words of Mrs. Finley "there is all sorts of advice about what we can do, or not do, to stay healthy." Agreed, now let's take the time to listen and follow through.
