- 1
USPSTF makes recommendations based on evidence based practices.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
Access the Guide to Clinical Preventive Services, 2010-2011. This authoritative resource from the USPSTF provides recommendations on screening, counseling, and preventive medication topics. It also includes clinical considerations for each topic. The free publication that can also be accessed in web or PDF file version can be downloaded from the AHRQ website. Single copies of the publication also are available and can be obtained by going online or via phone as well as email requests. - 2
Healthy eating puts prevention into practice.Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
Have an open mind about evidence-based research that suggests that there is a direct correlation between lifestyle changes and good health. The World Health Organization reports that people between the age of 15 and 24 die each year due to preventable causes. Healthier lifestyle changes could lead to longer and more productive lives. Disease prevention researchers and health care providers frequently report that healthy eating, exercise, stress reduction and smoking cessation are preventive lifestyle changes that may lead to better health. - 3
Communicating with doctors puts prevention into practice.Siri Stafford/Photodisc/Getty Images
Take a personal proactive approach to putting prevention into practice. This can be accomplished by finding a doctor that can be trusted to listen to concerns about personal health problems and symptoms. It is also important to have a doctor that will provide options as well as feedback while having their patient's best interest in mind. While the doctor is the professional whose opinion should be held in the highest regard, you are the person who is going to have to ultimately live with the results of the outcome.
Be prepared and organized when meeting with the physician since time is limited. Know what issues that need to be addressed and be prepared to ask questions based on those issues. It is important to prioritize questions so that all pertinent concerns will be addressed. It is usually best to write questions in advance to reduce the chance of leaving out important ones.
Maintain up to date health records. For example, if you know that you are meeting with your doctor to discuss blood pressure issues, it would be helpful if you have monitored your blood pressure regularly and recorded the results so that the doctor can review them during your next visit. Accurate records are larger snapshots of your health that can provide the doctor with a clearer picture during times other than office visits. They also help the doctor to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to meet your health needs.
previous post
next post