The recent pandemic caused an unprecedented but entirely understandable drop in healthcare utilization. As people sheltered in place through 2021, one in four adults missed or delayed at least one healthcare appointment. The pandemic may be largely in the rearview mirror, but healthcare usage has not bounced back as much as many experts hoped. Across all metrics, overall use of the healthcare system is still down. Yet preventive healthcare is the key to a long and healthy life. Why are people still foregoing needed medical care, and what can you do to help?
Factors that may affect healthcare utilization
Costs
Even with insurance, healthcare can be expensive. Copays and deductibles may be confusing and can add up over time. Fortunately, you can reduce your costs by maximizing your benefits. For example, you might choose to have an elective procedure at the end of the year, when your deductible is already covered, rather than putting it off into the following year.
Taking advantage of preventive healthcare can also help you save money in the long run. Make sure you’re utilizing all of the essential benefits provided by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), which are fully covered even before you meet your deductible. These can help to prevent some illnesses and to detect emerging issues before they become expensive and difficult to treat.
Fears
It’s normal to have some anxiety before a doctor’s appointment, but too much anxiety can cause you to postpone even routine medical care. Common signs that you’re experiencing more than average levels of fear include:
- Physical distress such as stomach pains, headaches, or sweaty palms before an upcoming visit
- Trouble sleeping the night before an appointment
- Anger, irritability, or feeling emotionally out of sorts
- Finding excuses to put off needed care
- Compulsively researching symptoms and diseases or, alternately, refusing to admit that you have any indications of an illness or injury
Accessibility
Rural areas across the country are experiencing a shortage of doctors. If you live in a city without solid public transit, you may have plenty of doctors to choose from, but be unable to get there if you don’t have a car. Mobility issues can make these problems even worse since you might be physically unable to make a long commute or find a public transit route that can accommodate your needs.
Language barriers
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly one in five people living in the United States, or more than 67 million total, speak a language other than English at home. Even if your conversational English skills are good, medical jargon can be complex and difficult to understand. If you have relatives who don’t speak much English at all, they may find it nearly impossible to understand what a doctor is telling them.
Cultural differences
Different cultures have different expectations when it comes to medical care, and this can be a source of confusion and frustration. Some people prefer herbal remedies over Western medications. Some believe that the doctor should be the sole decision maker, while others feel that the patient is an important part of the treatment team. If your cultural beliefs and preferences are radically different than your doctor’s, communication can break down and you may not get the best possible healthcare.
How you can be part of the healthcare utilization solution
Fortunately, these issues can be solved or managed with hard work and attentiveness. Here are a few things you can do:
Find a community health center
Community health centers strive to provide healthcare access to people who would otherwise have trouble getting to a traditional clinic. They may also have extended operating hours, making it easier to get there after work or whenever you can find childcare. Community health centers typically aren’t equipped to provide complex care, but they usually offer preventive healthcare along with treatment for minor illnesses and injuries.
Seek patient-centered care
Holistic, patient-centered care offers gentle guidance throughout your healthcare journey. The goal is to treat the whole person rather than simply a collection of symptoms. This type of care is highly personalized, making it easier to work with your doctor on individual concerns such as costs or fears.
Look for cultural sensitivity and language services
Increasing numbers of clinics have started taking proactive steps to better support their patients from diverse backgrounds. Many offices also contract with online or telephone interpreter services to assist patients whose primary language is not English. Choose a provider who is committed to cultural sensitivity and awareness, and who offers language services if needed. You might need to look around a bit, but finding a doctor who “gets” you is well worth the effort.
Support your friends and relatives…and yourself
If you have mild to moderate health anxiety, you may be able to manage it with coping skills such as deep breathing, visualization, or bringing someone with you for support. If your fears are more severe, consider seeking help from a mental health professional.
Show up for your loved ones as well. Whether they are dealing with anxiety, transportation issues, language barriers, or any other barrier to healthcare, find out what you can do to help. Give them a ride. Offer to translate. Or simply sit with them during their doctor’s visits.
Make the most of your EHE benefits
At EHE, we are committed to providing culturally sensitive, whole-person care to every member. With a variety of in-person and virtual options, along with year-round health coaching services, we encourage you to make the most of your benefits. Let us know your concerns or challenges, and we will do everything we can to make your healthcare journey as simple and effective as possible.