Men’s Health Month | The Importance of Preventative Care

• June 19, 2017
• Amber Specialty Pharmacy
• Health Tips

Let’s face the facts. Men have a reputation for avoiding trips to the doctor. Life expectancy for men in the U.S. is 76.4 years, which is 4.8 years less than women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics.

June marks Men’s Health Month, which brings awareness to preventable health problems and encourages the early detection of health problems in men and boys. Many people avoid going to the doctor and only go when they are very sick. It always makes sense to visit the doctor when you aren’t well but having an annual checkup is an essential step in preventative care.

Here are a few reasons men avoid going the doctor and ways to counter these arguments.

I feel fine.

You can say there’s nothing wrong and you may be right, but wouldn’t you rather know? Some health conditions don’t have any symptoms. For example, you may have high blood pressure or high cholesterol and not feel a thing. Both high blood pressure and high cholesterol can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. Your doctor can easily tell if you have either of these conditions and can work with you to develop a treatment plan—but you have to get to the doctor first!

Preventative care is critical because the majority of diseases are easier to treat when they are diagnosed early. Early detection often means more treatment options and a better quality of life. Who wouldn’t want that? Whether it’s a simple check-up with your doctor or that colonoscopy you’re avoiding, the pros of preventative care often outweigh the cons.

I don’t want to spend the money.

Maybe you’re avoiding the doctor because you have a high deductible or a copay you don’t want to pay. Even though none of us are looking for extra bills to pay, visiting the doctor will save you money in the long run. Not only does early detection lead to better treatment options but it can also mean less expensive treatment options.

Plus, most preventative care is free of charge. Check with your health insurance provider to see what preventative care you’re covered for. There are also co-pay card programs that can help lower your out-of-pocket medical costs. For example, Amber Specialty Pharmacy helps patients find prescription drug co-pay cards and apply for financial help.

I don’t have a doctor.

A good doctor isn’t just someone that has clinical knowledge—a good doctor is someone you can confide in. If you are looking for a good doctor in your area, ask friends and family members if they have someone to recommend. You can also read reviews online of physicians in your area.

When was the last time you visited the doctor? What about your husband, son or father? If it’s been a year or more, take the opportunity to give your doctor a call during Men’s Health Month and set up an appointment.

Looking for more information on men’s health? Men’s Health Network offers a variety of resources to help men live healthier, happier lives.