I recently had a friend who is young and fit get diagnosed with a serious heart condition. Since the condition is usually associated with advanced age and obesity, it was surprising to hear. However, with quick action and strict lifestyle changes, the condition is reversible.
Chronic conditions like this account for 86% of medical costs nationwide, according to the National Institute of Health. Regular doctor’s visits can support with prevention and disease management before conditions become a significant medical and financial burden. Here is why visiting the doctor regularly saves you money.
Budgeting For Predictable Costs
The National Institute of Health estimates that 50% of the United States population suffers from a chronic condition. If chronic conditions are not properly managed, the result can be increased hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and prescription costs.
The American Action Forum estimates that annual healthcare costs for someone with a chronic condition are about five times higher than for someone without a chronic condition.
Seeing a primary doctor regularly often includes a general health check and panel of tests, which is great for preventing or managing chronic conditions. Without chronic conditions, average healthcare expenses are around $1,206.40 per year, which adds up to about $100 per month.
Managing Chronic Condition Costs
Visiting your doctor regularly can ensure that you are on the right medications and dosages. Your doctor can also keep you informed about the latest updates in care, recent studies, clinical trials and new medications, which may be able to change the course of your care.
Avoiding Emergency Care
When you can catch and manage conditions early, along with preventing avoidable diseases, your odds of requiring emergency care are significantly reduced. According to GoodRX, an average emergency room visit costs between $2,400 and $2,600. That is around double the cost of annual care without an emergency or chronic condition.
Health Education And Lifestyle Advice
According to the National Institute of Health, more than 80% of chronic conditions can be avoided by implementing a healthy lifestyle. Getting the advice and being held accountable during regular visits can serve to keep you on the healthiest track, even if you’re already managing a chronic condition.
Mental Health Support
The National Institute of Mental Illness estimates that about one in five Americans struggle with a mental illness, with the young population suffering from higher rates of all levels of mental illnesses. Without treatment, many mental health conditions can significantly reduce your expected lifespan. Seeing your doctor frequently can support with spotting the need for a mental health professional.
Building A Relationship With Your Doctor
According to Harvard Healthcare, building a strong relationship with your doctor improves patient health outcomes. Beyond the benefits of having someone extremely familiar with your medical record leading to better customized care, good rapport with your doctor can produce health effects as beneficial as some common treatments, like using daily aspirin for heart attack prevention.
Conclusion
Regular doctor visits are vital for both financial and physical health. These check-ups enable early detection and management of health issues, minimizing the risk of costly emergencies and hospitalizations. In receiving routine healthcare, you can better manage predictable medical expenses and receive timely vaccinations. Ultimately, prioritizing regular doctor visits is a wise investment in your long-term health and financial stability, helping you lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.
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