No Excuses: Why Now is the Perfect Time to Schedule that Preventive Health Check-up

Did you know that 75% of healthcare costs are spent on treating preventable diseases? As Indians, we tend to neglect our health and try to manage it on our own until it becomes unbearable, resulting in higher hospitalisation costs. According to a 2019 report by the World Health Organization (WHO), non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for over 66% of all deaths in India. Among these NCDs, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) alone contribute to 22% of all deaths in the country. With these alarming statistics, it’s clear that prioritizing our health should be a top concern.  

So, what’s your excuse for not scheduling that long-overdue check-up? It’s time to take charge of your health and take the first step towards a healthier you. 

Importance of health check-ups 

Timely health check-ups are crucial as they increase the chances of curing diseases when detected early. Preventive health check-ups involve various medical tests that can detect underlying illnesses and mitigate risk factors at an early stage. They are essential for maintaining good health and extending longevity. Regular monitoring or early detection of health conditions can prevent complications. 

Regular check-ups can reveal hidden health problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes that may not show obvious symptoms. By detecting these issues early, steps can be taken to address them before they worsen. 

Preventive check-ups are not only for identifying health issues but also for monitoring changes in the body as we age. This can be particularly helpful if certain health problems run in the family or if you are trying to make lifestyle changes to improve your health. Health check-ups also provide an opportunity to discuss any health concerns or questions with your doctor. They can help you make changes to your diet, physical activity, and other aspects of your life that can improve your overall health and well-being. 

Lastly, regular visits to the doctor can save you money in the long run. By identifying possible health problems early on, you can avoid spending a significant amount of money on medical bills to treat more serious conditions later in life. 

 Benefits of preventive health check-ups  

There are several tests and assessments involved in a preventive health check-up that consider your overall health. Here are some of the most important reasons to get a health check-up: 

1. Early detection of possible health concerns: Regular health checks can help find problems before they worsen. This can include conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and cancer. Early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment, which can prevent further complications and improve outcomes. 
2. Better care for long-term health problems: Early diagnosis of long-term health problems, such as diabetes or heart disease, can help you manage them better. Your doctor can inform you about changes to your lifestyle, medicines, and other treatments that can help you deal with the condition effectively and prevent its progression. 
3. Peace of mind: Getting a clean bill of health from a check-up can give you peace of mind and alleviate worries about possible health problems. Knowing that you are taking proactive steps towards maintaining your health can reduce anxiety and help you feel more confident about your well-being. 
4. Prevention of diseases: Regular check-ups can help identify risk factors for various diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, sexually transmitted infections, cancer, osteoporosis, and vision problems. With early detection, preventive measures can be taken to reduce the risk of developing these diseases and promote better health. 

Barriers to Scheduling Preventive Health Check-ups 

There are several reasons why people may not prioritize preventive health check-ups. Some of the contributing factors include: 

• Lack of Awareness: Many individuals may not be fully aware of the importance of preventive health check-ups or may not know what specific tests are recommended for their age, gender, or health condition. This lack of awareness may lead to a delay or avoidance of preventive health check-ups. 

• Cost: The cost of preventive health check-ups can be a barrier for some individuals, especially for those who are uninsured or underinsured. The out-of-pocket expenses associated with medical tests and consultations may be perceived as a financial burden, leading to hesitation in scheduling preventive health check-ups. 

• Fear or Anxiety: Fear or anxiety about medical procedures, receiving a diagnosis, or the possibility of finding out about a health problem can discourage some people from scheduling preventive health check-ups. Fear of needles, claustrophobia, or other medical-related anxieties may prevent individuals from undergoing necessary tests or screenings. 

• Time Constraints: Busy work schedules, family obligations, and other personal commitments can make it challenging for individuals to find the time to schedule and attend regular preventive health check-ups. This may lead to neglecting or postponing preventive health check-ups, thinking that they can be done later. 

• Lack of Access: Access to healthcare facilities that offer preventive health check-up services may be limited for individuals living in remote or rural areas. Distance, transportation issues, or lack of healthcare facilities in proximity may hinder individuals from accessing preventive health check-ups. 

• Stigma: Stigma associated with certain health conditions, such as mental health issues, sexually transmitted infections, or other sensitive topics, may discourage individuals from scheduling preventive health check-ups due to fear of judgment or embarrassment. 

Having a strong preventive healthcare policy can help mitigate these issues. It can provide peace of mind and serve as a safety net in the event of an emergency. Additionally, it provides valuable information about your body’s vital signs, allowing you to take necessary steps to improve your lifestyle. 

How Onsurity can help 

Onsurity is a comprehensive healthcare platform that offers preventive health check-up plans, tele-consultations with licensed doctors, and health and wellness resources. With affordable healthcare plans, Onsurity makes it easy to schedule health check-ups that fit into your busy schedule and budget. You can also access tele-consultations with medical professionals from the comfort of your own home. In addition, Onsurity provides a variety of health and wellness resources, including fitness and diet plans, and mental health support to help you make positive lifestyle changes for improved overall health and well-being.  

Don’t let your health take a backseat to other priorities in today’s fast-paced world. You need to remember that your health is the foundation of everything you do and neglecting it can have serious consequences. That’s why now is the perfect time for you to schedule your preventive health check-up with Onsurity. Should the report concern you, you could also consult a doctor by availing the complimentary tele-consultation benefit.  

 Don’t become a statistic, make your health a priority today!