Yesterday’s visit to my doctor’s office for an annual wellness check was nothing short of eye-opening. From the moment I walked in, I couldn’t help but notice that every single employee appeared obese and, frankly, unhealthy. It was a stark contrast to the environment one would expect in a place dedicated to promoting health and wellness.

The doctor herself spent a mere five minutes with me during what was supposed to be an annual wellness check. Not a single question about my diet, exercise routine, sleep patterns, or overall well-being. Instead, she fixated on a DEXA scan from a year ago, diagnosing me with osteopenia in my hips, and promptly prescribed a medication to “rebuild my bones.”

Naturally, I had questions. How does this medication work? What are the side effects? Her response? “I don’t know, it’s been years since I was in pharma class,” she admitted, while frantically searching online for answers. Eventually, she handed me an information sheet filled with potential side effects but lacking any real insight into the drug’s mechanism.

When I requested hormone testing as part of my annual bloodwork, she dismissed it outright. “Being post menopausal, you don’t need that,” she insisted. After I pressed further, she reluctantly agreed but warned, “You’ll have to pay for them.” The entire encounter felt rushed, dismissive, and uninformative.

As I was leaving, she handed me a sticky note with another doctor’s contact information. “I think this doctor will be a better match for you. She’s into all the ‘hormone, functional medicine stuff’ too,” she said. I was stunned. Essentially, I had been “fired” as her patient for daring to ask questions and advocate for my own health.

This experience underscores a significant issue in our healthcare system: a tendency to prioritize quick fixes and pharmaceuticals over patient education and natural solutions. It’s disheartening but, unfortunately, not uncommon.

So, what can we do about it? Here are a few steps to take control of your health:

1. Be Your Own Advocate: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and demand clear answers. Your health is too important to leave in the hands of someone unwilling to engage in meaningful dialogue.
2. Do Your Own Research: Educate yourself about your conditions and potential treatments. Knowledge is power, and understanding your options allows you to make informed decisions.
3. Seek Out Like-Minded Practitioners: Look for healthcare providers who align with your health philosophies, especially those open to natural and holistic approaches.
4. Explore Natural Solutions: Many conditions can be managed or even prevented through lifestyle changes, nutrition, and natural supplements. For instance, weight-bearing exercises and a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D are known to support bone health.

If you need support in this area, feel free to connect with me at kim@kimhessyoga.com. Together, we can navigate the path to better health, naturally.