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| June 19 | |
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Preventive Care For Men |
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In my previous practice, most of my male patients were referred by their spouse or girlfriend, usually because of a health issue that needed attention. And that’s not uncommon, according to the findings of a survey conducted by the Commonwealth Fund. This survey was done to find out what the status is of American men’s health and what are some of the challenges they face. What they found is fairly significant. First of all, the survey shows that many men actually lack any contact with the healthcare system. In fact three times as many men as women have not seen a doctor in the previous year; and one out of three had no regular doctor, compared with one out of five women. This lack of connection means that men often go without preventive care. More than half of all men had not had a physical exam or a blood cholesterol test in the previous year. And when asked, one out of four men reported that he would wait as long as possible before seeking help if he were concerned about his health. Other barriers to health care included lack of health insurance, with low-income men being the most affected. Uninsured men were at least three times as likely as insured men not to have care when needed. |
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Is there any good news at all? Yes, especially if you have a spouse or significant other. Men with support at home are much more likely to seek care. And though the survey doesn’t mention this, it’s my opinion that the internet will play a role in providing a private place for people to seek information—hopefully, it will also encourage them to seek help when it’s needed. | |
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RESOURCES:
Out of Touch: Men and the American Healthcare System
Men’s Health
The Men’s Health Network |
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