Editor’s note: This is the fourth in a five-week series highlighting Nantahala Health Foundation’s work to remove barriers to health for underserved individuals in far-western North Carolina.
By Lisa Duff, Guest Columnist
Considering the vast array of health drivers individuals face daily, interacting with clinicians should be the most important step to take to ensure healthy outcomes, right?
“Would you be surprised to learn that time spent face to face with your health-care provider impacts only about 20 percent of health outcomes over your lifetime?” Nantahala Health Foundation Executive Director Lori Bailey said.
“Even so, spending a lifetime without access to quality health care would be akin to asking someone to win a marathon after sitting through a two-hour delay.”
Access to health care plays an important role in shaping individual well-being and influencing health outcomes from cradle to grave. It encompasses not just availability, but affordability, quality of medical services and supplemental resources, which collectively determine the extent to which individuals are empowered to address and manage their health needs.
Access to health care is essential for learning and implementing preventive measures and early intervention, Bailey said.
“Timely medical screenings, vaccinations and health check-ups are crucial in detecting and addressing potential health issues before they escalate into more severe conditions. Individuals with limited access to health-care services are at a disadvantage, as they often miss out on these preventive measures, leading to higher risks of chronic diseases and complications.
“Furthermore, access to health care is closely linked to health equity. Disparities in access disproportionately affect rural, marginalized and underserved populations, exacerbating existing health inequalities. Lack of access can lead to delayed or inadequate care, resulting in poorer health outcomes for vulnerable communities,” she added.
Effective management of chronic conditions relies heavily on consistent access to health-care services. Regular medical visits, prescription medications and specialized treatments are vital for individuals with ongoing health issues.
Limited access can disrupt the continuity of care, causing individuals to miss essential treatments and leading to worsening health conditions.
“Mental health is another critical aspect affected by access to health care. Adequate mental health services, including therapy and counseling, are necessary for addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress,” Bailey said. “Limited access can contribute to untreated mental health issues, negatively impacting overall well-being and potentially leading to a cascade of physical health problems.”
Moreover, the financial burden associated with healthcare can influence health outcomes. High healthcare costs can deter individuals from seeking necessary medical attention, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Financial strain from medical expenses can also contribute to stress and negatively impact mental health.
Access to health care is, without a doubt, a fundamental social driver of health, exerting far-reaching impacts on individuals and communities, Bailey said, with more to come.
The writer is associate director of Nantahala Health Foundation. Visit NantahalaHealthFoundation.org or call 828-634-1527.