Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day

Take a Loved One to The Doctor Day is part of a national campaign encouraging Americans to see a health care provider or to make an appointment for the near future. By focusing its efforts on a single day, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) hopes to generate a better understanding of the importance of regular health screenings, and also to focus on the populations that tend to have the least access to health care. Before, during and after Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day, health messages will air on hundreds of radio stations across the country offering specific tips on leading a healthier life and discussing the gap between the health of African Americans and other members of the US population.

Prevention Can Lessen Need for Emergency Care
Many people wait until there is an emergency before they go see a doctor, and research has shown that we often need to be motivated to seek regular health care. Health care providers understand the value of preventive care, and Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day is an excellent time to screen individuals for existing or potential problems and to refer them for follow-up care if necessary.

Local community-based organizations including health centers and health departments are participating in Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day. They are seeing patients, sponsoring health fairs, sharing information and helping to transport individuals to appointments. Other organizations are planning events in communities across the country, including health fairs and health screenings at specific locations (shopping malls, local parks), community health forums, local media outreach and much more.

Participation
It’s easy to participate in Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day. Think about who you know who hasn't been to the doctor lately, discuss their healthcare needs with them and then set up an appointment…and take them. If you haven't been to the doctor in a while, consider yourself a loved one and make an appointment for yourself. Find out where local health fairs or health-related community events are occurring in your community, and attend them yourself or bring neighbors, friends or family. If they (or you) don't already have a doctor or don't have health insurance, contact your local community health center or health department to ask about free or low-cost care.

A great list of the programs and services provided through the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS) is online at their Programs and Services page. Another valuable resource from the DHFS is the State of Wisconsin Consumer Guide to Health Care. This page will direct you to information on health problems, self care, insurance, health care complaints and much more.

It’s a good time to begin taking charge of your own wellbeing and the health of your loved ones. Even though Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day is being promoted as an event that occurs on one day of the year, any day is a good one to start making positive changes to ensure good health in the future.

Each year, Medical College of Wisconsin physicians care for more than 180,000 patients, representing nearly 500,000 patient visits. Medical College physicians practice at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, and many other hospitals and clinics in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin.