Taking charge of your health is an essential part of living well, and this is especially true for those with chronic health conditions. Studies show that those who take charge of their health have better health outcomes than those who don’t. Even small steps taken today can have a significant impact on your health in the future.
Visiting a Dietician
Dietitians follow an ethical code established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and its credentialing body, the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Dietitians are expected to practice dietetics following scientific principles and current knowledge; present substantiated information and interpret controversial information without personal bias; and constantly aspire to expand and apply professional knowledge and skills to their practice, according to this code.
When you visit a dietitian, you can be confident that you receive the most current and reliable information. While many research articles contain contradictory information, not all studies are broad or unbiased. Dietitians understand how to find, interpret, and communicate scientifically sound research to you in an understandable manner. You can find dietitians using websites like Radiate Nutrition.
Chronic Disease Self-Management
Chronic disease self-management is a vital part of managing chronic health conditions. It is a program that helps older adults manage their needs and provides support and tools to deal with their disease. Designed for people with chronic diseases and their caregivers, the program addresses the impact the condition has on daily life and offers a low-cost alternative to expensive medical care. Regular disease self-management workshops are provided in community settings and can be scheduled to meet the needs of those in need.
Developed by Stanford University, the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program teaches individuals how to manage chronic diseases and improve their quality of life. It focuses on disease management skills, decision-making, problem-solving, and motivation to face challenges. It provides participants with hands-on learning activities to help them manage their illnesses. The program includes topics such as managing medications, symptom management, and healthy eating. It also covers how to reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
The study identifies the need for healthcare strategies that include the participation of patients and public participation. This involvement is essential in developing new policies and procedures, as it helps identify innovative approaches to the problem and allows marginalized groups to have their say.
Getting Preventive Care
In a recent study, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality reported that only eight percent of Americans aged 35 or older said receiving all recommended high-quality clinical preventive services. This represents a substantial underrepresentation of adults in the US. However, increasing access to these services and improving health outcomes are still possible.
Preventive care reduces the risk of various diseases, disabilities, and even death. The goals of Healthy People 2030 aim to increase the availability of preventive care for all ages. The initiative educates the public about the importance of preventive care and advocates for policy changes. For adults, preventive care services include well-child visits, immunizations, developmental assessments, fluoride supplements, and screening for tuberculosis and lipid disorders.
Preventive care services are usually covered by health insurance plans. Many are free of cost when delivered by providers in the plan’s network. However, if you visit a provider outside your network, you may have to pay a copay. Furthermore, office visit fees may apply to preventive services, even if they are not the primary reason for an office visit.
Getting Regular Screenings
Medical screenings are essential to a healthy lifestyle and can save your life. Regular screenings can also help your doctor identify problems in their early stages. Normal blood pressure, cholesterol, and other screenings will help prevent heart attacks and strokes. These tests will also ensure a higher quality of life and a longer lifespan. Talk to your healthcare provider about a schedule of screenings based on your age, gender, and family history.
Regular screenings can help detect cancer and other diseases. Many of these screenings are free and are conducted by your doctor. Different tests require a trip to a radiology center. Some tests, such as blood pressure, can be done in the doctor’s office, while others require a visit to a lab or radiology center. High blood pressure, for example, can increase your heart disease, stroke, and dementia risk. In addition, it can lead to vision problems and sexual dysfunction. High blood pressure is difficult to diagnose because it usually has no apparent symptoms. It is also referred to as the “silent killer.”
Colorectal cancer screenings are an essential part of preventive care. Colorectal cancer screenings can be done at any age, but the American Cancer Society recommends starting at age 45. The screening may include a visual exam or stool-based test. It’s important to discuss your screening options with your healthcare provider and insurance provider. Generally, it’s safe to get screenings every three years for colorectal cancer, even if you’re in good health.
