When work gets busy, it can be easy to forget to prioritize your health and well-being. The old saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is often true when it comes to your health. Making preventive care – the things you do to help keep from getting sick in the first place – a priority can help you stay healthier longer and as a result lower your healthcare costs.
The key components of preventive care:
- Regular Check-ups and Screenings: Routine health check-ups and screenings are fundamental to preventive health care. The types of screenings recommended for you may vary based on your age, sex, and family history.
- Vaccinations and Immunizations: Vaccinations are also important for prevention, providing immunity against infectious diseases.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help you avoid many health issues down the line. This includes making informed choices about nutrition, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, avoiding harmful habits like smoking, and getting adequate sleep.
- Health Education and Awareness: Knowledge is empowering. Preventive care involves knowing your family history, understanding your health risks, and taking advantage of the resources available to you – including your mental health resources!
Why make preventive care a priority?
The benefits of putting your health first are more than physical:
- Balancing Costs: Preventive care can help you avoid more significant expenses associated with treating chronic health conditions. It is a strategic investment in your financial health.
- Long-Term Health Benefits: Preventive care is not just about avoiding diseases; it’s about promoting longevity and resilience. People who prioritize prevention when it comes to their health care are more likely to age gracefully and experience fewer health complications as they grow older.
- Community Well-being: A population committed to preventive care contributes to the overall well-being of communities. It reduces the burden on healthcare systems, minimizes the spread of infectious diseases, and creates a culture of shared responsibility for health.
How can virtual care help?
Advancements in virtual care have made preventive healthcare easier and more convenient than ever. With telehealth services, you can access many preventive care options from the comfort of your home, minimizing barriers such as travel time, scheduling conflicts, and long wait in-person times. Here’s how virtual methods can support your preventive healthcare:
- Routine Check-ups from Anywhere: Virtual visits allow you to consult with your doctor about preventive screenings, chronic disease management, and general health concerns without needing to step into a clinic.
- Easy Access to Mental Health Resources: Many mental health services, including counseling and therapy, are now available online, helping you prioritize emotional well-being as part of your overall health.
- Faster Support for Health Concerns: Early detection is key to preventing serious health conditions. Virtual consultations allow you to discuss symptoms and receive timely advice on next steps.
As employees, embracing preventive health care is a proactive step towards a healthier, more balanced life. As we collectively strive for success, let’s not forget that a healthy team is a thriving team. Schedule that health screening, take charge of your well-being, and remember that your health is your most valuable asset.
For members enrolled in Business Health Trust, you can gain resources about your plan’s specific preventive health benefits by downloading the January Employer Wellness Toolkit on the Member Resources page.