In a recent article form the AARP Bulletin, they answer the question, “Where Have All The Doctors Gone?” The article discusses why we have so few physicians. The first is not enough people are going into healthcare. The second is many physicians are leaving the field of healthcare. Several factors are contributing to qualified providers choosing to leave the profession including: decreased reimbursement, high workload, and more paperwork.
It goes on to point out that not only will there be a huge shortage of physicians by 2036, but that there will not be enough of the “right kind” of doctors including: Primary Care Physicians, Geriatrics and Pediatrics. The main reason is these specialties pay significantly less than some of the more exciting specialties like Neuro, Thoracic and Orthopedic Surgery, which are the top 3 paying specialties.
This means it will be harder for aging adults, who typically need more access to healthcare, to receive it. This is concerning as the aging population continues to grow. So, what can you do to help ensure you get the proper care you need?
My advice is to become your own aging advocate. Here’s how:
Do your research. You will have to take on some of the responsibility of gathering more information on your own. Physicians simply don’t have the time to sit down and explain all the options to you. The better educated you are on your medical condition, the better off you will be.
Ask questions. Come prepared with a list of questions. If you don’t fully understand the explanation, ask for more clarification. So often people do not ask for more information even if they don’t understand because they are worried about coming off as “stupid”. If you don’t fully understand the options being offered to you, it is the fault of the healthcare provider for not doing their job of explaining your options well, not your fault for not understanding.
Ask for other options. Often times you will be given a recommendation based solely on your age. Ask if there are other options for you. If you read about a promising treatment, ask if it would be appropriate to try.
Get a second opinion. Physicians are taught to order tests and prescribe medication. Surgeons learn to order scans and recommend surgery. Dieticians coach you to change the food you eat. Physical Therapists are experts at prescribing exercise.
Work with a Specialist. Choosing to work with an expert in your area of concern increases the likelihood of getting the outcome you are looking for. They will fully understand your concerns and recommend a comprehensive approach.
Be open to paying for care. Realize that many of the best providers are leaving the traditional structure of healthcare in order to avoid burnout and continue doing what they love - take care of people. Paying out of pocket is becoming more common in order to get access to the best care.
The HouseFit Difference. HouseFit is the only geriatric specific clinic and fitness gym in Saint Louis. We pride ourselves on going above and beyond for our clients to treat the whole person. This not only includes your current pain or mobility issues, but also your overall medical health, social and emotional health. We work with our clients every day to ensure they have access to the outside resources they need to age well. We educate them on as many different areas of healthy aging as we can, so they can make well informed decisions. We love taking care of our clients and making their lives better.