A Proactive Approach to Healthcare: Tips to Stay Healthy

July 12, 2023 5 Minute Read

Kroger Health Team

What is a Proactive Approach to Healthcare?

We’re all familiar with the benefits of reactive healthcare. When you’re not feeling well, it’s easy to schedule an appointment with your doctor’s office or visit The Little Clinic to get back to feeling your best. And while it’s important to seek treatment when you experience unpleasant symptoms, the key to long-term wellness is to adopt a proactive approach to your health.

So, what does a proactive approach look like? With preventative care, the goal is to avoid getting sick in the first place, but a proactive approach doesn’t stop at physical exams and wellness checks. To be truly proactive means adopting a more holistic approach, looking at all the factors encouraging or impeding your overall wellness.

Taking medication, eating healthy and adding movement to your daily routine are just a few examples of ways you can be proactive when it comes to your health. Here are some simple steps you can take right now to help stay healthy and feel your best.

Schedule Routine Screenings

Scheduling regular preventative health services can reduce your chances of developing chronic illnesses, such as heart disease or diabetes. Scheduling regular care can also help you stay well and catch any warning signs early, helping you live a longer, healthier life. You can do this by keeping up with annual physicals; scheduling screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, mammography and vision; and dental and dermatological exams. Schedule a self-care day at least once each year to call your providers and schedule all of your visits. In the meantime, The Little Clinic is a great option for quick check-up visits. Open nights, weekends and even some holidays, it’s easy to schedule an appointment for routine healthcare, and walk-ins are welcome.

Think of Your Family

During physical exams and wellness checks, your healthcare providers will want to learn about your family history. A family history of a chronic disease like cancer, heart disease, diabetes or osteoporosis often means a higher risk of developing those conditions yourself. Armed with this knowledge, providers can help you take steps to prevent certain health conditions and chronic diseases (or help to catch them early, when they’re easier to treat). Keeping your family in mind is a great motivator for seeking proactive care, while keeping track of your family history is a great way to help with successful outcomes.

Taking Medication

If your healthcare provider has prescribed medications for you, it’s important to take them at the recommended time and in the recommended way, such as before eating or at bedtime. Stay up to date on refills, and don’t discontinue medications without first talking to your provider.

Medication adherence is a key factor in the success of your preventative care. If you’re having trouble remembering to take your medication, try setting an alarm on your phone at the same time each day. You can sort your pills in advance by putting them in handy organizers, leaving them somewhere in sight for a quick visual reminder. And always pack your medications in a carry-on bag when traveling. These are just a few quick tips you can try to stay on track.

It’s also important to make a list of the medications you’re currently taking, as well as a list of known allergies and medications that have caused adverse reactions in the past. If you’d like some help compiling that list, our pharmacists will be happy to help.

Get Vaccinated

Regular vaccination is one of the simplest ways you can be proactive about your personal health and the wellbeing of your community. Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases by safeguarding individuals against potentially harmful illnesses. By getting vaccinated regularly, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting and transmitting contagious diseases, protecting not only yourself but also vulnerable community members like infants, expectant parents, elderly people and those with chronic illnesses or otherwise compromised immune systems. Regular vaccination can play a key role in proactive healthcare, promoting a healthier and safer community for everyone.

Make Changes to Your Daily Routine

Making even small changes to your daily routine can be a good way to prioritize your own well-being right now. Making time for movement, meditation and healthy eating are all ways you can be proactive by reducing the amount of stress on your body and mind.

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