Make Preventative Health Care a National Priority
- by: Care2
- recipient: U.S. Presidential Candidates
America's medical system is focused on treating disease rather than fostering health. But our health care system is failing in part because of this reaction mentality. Twenty-first century health care should mean getting the care that works best before we ever get sick.
Waiting until a crisis emerges is costly and will likely lead a patient into already packed emergency rooms. Many diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity, can be prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
What we do in the short term can have a tremendous effect on the quality of our lives in the long run and can be as easy as taking your dog for a walk every day. It is critical that we make preventative health care a priority for ourselves and our government.
Ask presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain: How will your administration make preventative care a national priority?
Dear Senator,
In the final weeks of the campaign, I urge you to discuss how you will make preventative health care a national priority. We all know that a healthy diet and consistent exercise are the keys to a healthy lifestyle, but millions of Americans are still suffering from preventable diseases.
The best way to ensure a healthy America is to promote wellness and prevention efforts. Lack of exercise and overeating, smoking and drinking too much alcohol pose a growing threat to our nation's health. Too many Americans of every age do not get enough exercise, and unhealthy eating habits increase the risks.
Helpful information is available, but those resources are not being fully utilized. Making wellness and prevention efforts a priority will spur Americans to take action for their future well-being.
[Your comment here]
In the final weeks of the campaign, please address the following: How will your administration make preventative care a national priority?
I hope this message finds you in good health.
