If you own a car, you probably take preventive actions like keeping the tires inflated, changing the oil, or filling the radiator with coolant. It’s cheaper and less stressful than having a flat on a busy freeway or needing an engine overhaul on a road trip vacation. The same applies to your health. Prevention is still the best medicine.

Traditional health care becomes “sick care” far too often. People avoid doctor visits for any number of reasons, including cost. More than 20 years ago, a National Academy of Sciences study found that when patients wait until a common condition is severe enough to visit urgent care or the  emergency room, the cost of treatment is at least six times greater than if they had gone to their primary care provider first.  

Clearly, waiting is not an effective strategy — you feel worse and it costs more to treat what’s ailing you.

What you don’t know can hurt you

Vera strongly encourages members to participate in an Annual Whole Health Evaluation (AWHE), beginning with a biometric screening where we check important lab values. Why lab work, you may ask? Simply because not all health issues make you feel bad — high blood pressure or high blood sugar, for example — even though they can lead to life-altering conditions.  

Your provider will then meet with you to complete your AWHE by discussing the meaning of your biometric screening results and highlight potential health issues. Because we focus on the whole person, not just symptoms or lab values, you'll also discuss health matters like stress, lifestyle issues, diet, exercise, sleep, and more. 

Unlike traditional healthcare practices, your provider actually has plenty of time to talk with you about any concerns you may have. More than that, you’ll have the support and guidance of a health coach who can help you stay healthy and achieve the health goals that let you fully participate in life. Members who take full advantage of coaching can experience amazing results.

As a Vera member, the best approach to preventive care for you is scheduling your AWHE. You’ll feel better when you do.