A New Paradigm: From “Sick Care” to Preventative Healthcare
The unfortunate reality is that most people don’t start properly taking care of their health until something goes wrong with it. This is reinforced by the traditional Western medical model, which only treats patients after they have health issues. The current healthcare model is undoubtedly lifesaving, however, it puts little emphasis on prevention. In this article, we will explore the problems with the current paradigm of “sick care” in the United States and the importance of shifting from a reactive to proactive health care approach. The Current Model of “ Sick Care ” The U.S. is facing widening epidemics of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis. Chronic diseases, which are the leading cause of disability and death in the U.S., are responsible for a whopping 70% of deaths each year and account for nearly 75% of health care expenditures. [*][*] Unfortunately, many modifiable risk factors for chronic diseases are not being adequately addr...