Has health become less of a priority for Americans?

News & Innovation

by Steve Jacob

Mar 14, 2016

Americans are diligent about preventive care for their pets and vehicles. Their own bodies? Not so much.

According to a Cigna preventive care survey, nine out of 10 pet owners know when their dog or cat is due for their immunizations. About 80 percent of men know the mileage between oil changes and eight in 10 women know how often they get manicures and pedicures.

On the other hand, only about half know they should see their doctor for an annual checkup, and that there is no out-of- pocket cost if they have health insurance. However, only about half of family health care decision makers know their blood pressure, and only 20 percent know their biometric numbers such as cholesterol and body mass index.

Clearly, Americans are not adverse to tracking numbers and keeping regular appointments. Unfortunately, health is less of a priority than other things in life.

pet

About the Author

Steve is a senior marketing and public relations consultant for Baylor Scott & White Health. He spent nearly four decades in newspaper and magazine editorial and business management and is the author of two books on healthcare reform. He was also the founding editor of D Magazine's D Healthcare Daily.

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