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During the Covid-19 pandemic, we all became acutely aware of the strengths—and the limitations—of our healthcare system. Phenomenal hospitals, expert clinicians, and advanced medical technology are widely available in the United States, but not everyone is set up to receive great healthcare
Football season is in full swing, and for a health advisor, it’s easy to see parallels between the world of healthcare delivery and the world of professional football.
It’s no coincidence that the past 5 football teams to win the NFL Super Bowl (Tampa Bay, Kansas City, New England, Philadelphia, and Denver) all have outstanding quarterbacks. Of course, talented receivers, defensive specialists, and kickers all work hard on the field, but the quarterback calls the plays, implements the team’s strategy, and leads the team to victory.
The quarterback has the expertise to assess the situation, capitalize on the team’s strengths, and determine how the team will achieve its goals.
Who is calling the plays for your health and wellness?
The healthcare system is constantly improving, including the shift from general care into specialties that can provide patients with more precise treatments. But increased specialization can create more silos in our already fragmented healthcare delivery system. A collection of experts (no matter how good they are in their individual specialties) isn’t enough if no one is looking at the whole picture when it comes to your care.
To be successful, your healthcare team must have effective communication and collaboration—and you need a trusted expert who can lead the way. Everyone needs a healthcare quarterback.
Healthcare is very complex, and everyone’s needs are different. Many people have multiple ailments that can affect each other, such as sleep issues and anxiety, that require more than one specialist. Are you set up to receive the best possible healthcare for your unique situation? Do you have someone who can coordinate your care, talk to your doctors on your behalf, and answer your questions in plain English?
Take Cathy, for example. She has cancer and lives in Ohio, where her oncologist has carefully followed her cancer treatment and is doing a wonderful job managing the cancer. But the oncologist, focused on the life and death matters of cancer, isn’t looking at Cathy’s overall health. An oncologist doesn’t have the time to consider lifestyle issues, such as nutrition, mild pain, mild side effects, and more. Yet, a focus on these factors would allow Cathy to receive more holistic treatment and better care.
Who leads your healthcare team?
The Better Health Advisors team firmly believes that everyone needs a healthcare quarterback. If you or someone you love is coping with a new diagnosis, struggling with a chronic health condition, or needs support maintaining their good health, reach out to an expert health advisor. We are here to help with care coordination, treatment recommendations, and support throughout the process.
