Why do we seem to put off seeing a doctor until we face an issue?
If you’re anything like me it might have been years since you covered all your medical appointment bases. Once I finally got back on track, the discovery of previously undetected issues in my bloodwork led me to lifestyle improvements that could’ve been resolved sooner. Learn from my mistakes and instead stay ahead of the game.
Four health appointments to schedule today:
- DENTIST: Cleanings are recommended every 6 months – a year.
- DERMATOLOGIST: Visit once a year or 6 months for high risk or prior issues.
- PRIMARY PHYSICIAN: Get a check up and a physical done at least every 1-3 years if you’re under 50. Ask for bloodwork to check for any underlying conditions.
- GYNECOLOGIST: For all the ladies, this is important for cervical and breast cancer screenings annually.
*If you have any other or pre-existing conditions and need to see a specialist add that to your annual schedule of visits as well.
While you can sometimes get into the doctor or dentist quickly, other times it could be months, even a year before they can see you. So it’s better to reach out for an appointment before you’re past due for one.
To be clear, I am not a medical professional, just a busy mom who is finally putting her health back on the to do list and hoping that you do the same! So make your appointments today, for a healthier tomorrow!
How to find a new provider:
- Join a local Facebook group and ask for recommendations
- Ask neighbors or online neighborhood forums
- Check with your insurance provider to locate nearby doctors within network (call the number on your insurance card or use their online portal)
Making medical visits less of a pain
Try to have a positive mindset about heading to the doctor. Instead of seeing it as a chore, try combining it with something you might like to do while you wait.
Plan to listen to your favorite podcast, music or show, while you wait to be seen. Don’t forget to bring your headphones for the waiting room, or a book or magazine are great options too!
To motivate yourself, get yourself a special drink like a coffee or tea, to enjoy while you make the appointments. Treat yourself for taking care of yourself. It’s a win-win!
Consider your ‘why’ around staying healthy
Even if you dread the doctor, which I have been that person trust me, it is still important to prioritize health visits. At the end of the day I want to be my best and healthiest self so that I can show up long and strong for those that I love most.
So whether you’re just wanting to feel your best or if you want to be healthy for those who mean the most to you, use your “why” for extra motivation to keep your health habits on track.
Preventative care can also save you money by keeping you out of an urgent care or emergency room and can save your life by finding issues before they get worse. It can prevent you from missing work or from missing out on fun activities in your personal life too!
Summary
Use contacts in your community to find a healthcare provider, lists can also be found through contacting your insurance. Make sure to have a primary doctor, dermatologist, dentist and gynecologist.
Preventative care can save you time and money. It can also keep you at the top of your game to enjoy doing what you love with who you love. Value your health by making preventive care a priority.
Try using the waiting room for leisure by bringing a good book or a set of headphones. Treat yourself to a little beverage while you make the appointments to make it more enjoyable!
No matter where you are on your wellness journey it is always a good idea to stay up to date with your medical appointment schedule. The feedback and learnings from them can help you get to or continue on a good health trajectory.
Take the few short minutes to schedule your four basic appointments today, your future self will thank you!!
