Everyone Cares About Your Health. So Let Them!

Okay, maybe not everyone but a lot of people and organizations. 

Our happiness is intimately tied to our physical and mental states of health.  When we are fit we feel great, confident, patient and energized.  We operate in a better mental state and act with clarity and conviction.  Many of us kno
w the opposite to be true as well and unfortunately that’s where a majority of us spend our days.

Health and fitness is becoming a social imperative.  We’ve reached a breaking point and it comes down to the almighty dollar.  As the cost of healthcare rises and we incur more out of pocket expenses, the best defense against the sucking sound out of our pocketbooks is…prevention.  Lifestyle decisions around fitness and nutrition are the number one contributor to diabetes and heart disease, two debilitating conditions that can not only be reversed but save you thousands and thousands of dollars in medical costs.

I am by no means suggesting it’s easy but if we continue on our current course we will have diabetics representing 33% of our population by 2050, a healthcare system that will crater under its own weight, and a lot of heartbreaking sadness from loved ones lost too early.  The good news is that we’re on the precipice of great progress and there is a lot to be optimistic about.  It will take all of us working as a team but we are being embraced and supported like never before.  Let’s lean in and let people care about and help us.  Here is who is at the table:

Health Systems and Physicians:

 The Affordable Care Act sparked a model in healthcare called Accountable Care.  What this means is that the results/outcomes of your treatment will determine whether a hospital and physician get paid.  This includes your clinical outcomes but also your experience as a patient.  The health system has a financial incentive now for you to be successful.  Let them help you.  They are motivated.

Employers:

 have borne the greatest burden of escalating healthcare costs but the tide is turning.  Employers are pushing more responsibility to employees (high deductible health plans) but offsetting that with programs that promote well-being (healthy activity, nutrition, and stress management).  Many wellness companies are making it easier for you to connect to your employer and receive real benefits from staying healthy.  Let the recognition roll in!

Health Insurance Companies. :

Your health plan really, really wants you to stay invested in your health.  In fact, they are undergoing a revolutionary shift in their business model toward personalization.  Health plans are launching new incentive programs that promote well-being that could add up to some real dollars.  They are also creating new insurance products, some of which will be very inexpensive if you’re healthy and active.

Each Other. 

Yes, we know the power of online social networks but is anything more important to connect around than supporting and motivating each other to be healthy and active?  Imagine what you can share when you can get up in the morning and go on a hike, take your kids to the pool, take an adventurous vacation, or eat that In ‘n Out Burger guilt free.  Your social network is your most powerful source of success.  Wearable technology (e.g. Fitbits) is making it easier and easier to stay connected to the people that care.
We can sit here and be cynical or we can realize that "It takes a village".  You may think that your health is personal.   Think again.  Your health and well-being has a direct impact on so many people and organizations around you that care about you and that want to align to help you be your best self.  Let them in and see what is possible.