By Dr. Ken Anderson
For more than 40 years, I’ve had the privilege of caring for individuals and families in this community. I’ve seen generations grow up, celebrated recoveries, walked through difficult diagnoses, and built relationships that extend far beyond the exam room. That continuity and trust are what make practicing medicine in a community like ours so meaningful.
February is Wise Health Care Consumer Month, and I’d like to talk about something that doesn’t always get discussed openly: why patients sometimes don’t follow through with recommended care.
When a patient doesn’t move forward with a test, medication, or procedure, it is rarely because they don’t care. In fact, it’s usually quite the opposite.
Nationally, one of the biggest reasons patients delay or decline care is cost. Others share concerns about potential risks or side effects, insurance coverage, lack of time, or simply not fully understanding the recommendation. Occasionally, someone may feel they don’t need treatment because they feel fine at the moment.
After three decades of practice, none of these reasons surprise me. Health care can be complex, insurance can be confusing, and life is busy.
Being a wise health care consumer means being informed, asking questions, and partnering with your health care team to make decisions that are right for you.
Here are a few things I encourage:
Ask Questions
If you don’t understand why your provider is recommending something, tell them. We would much rather take extra time to explain than have you leave uncertain.
Ask:
- What is this test or treatment for?
- What happens if I wait?
- Are there alternatives?
- What are the risks and benefits?
An informed patient is an empowered patient.
Be Open About Financial Concerns
If cost is a concern, we want to know.
We have team members who can help navigate insurance questions and provide clarity about coverage. We offer financial assistance programs for those who qualify. We also have a Main Street Health Navigator who can connect patients with community resources that may help with medications, transportation, food access, or other needs that impact overall health. You are not alone in figuring this out.
At LCHC, there is an entire team behind the scenes, not just providers and nurses, but financial counselors, navigators, support staff, and administrators, all working together with one goal: to help you make the most of not only your experience here, but your health overall.
Sometimes solutions exist that patients simply aren’t aware of. A conversation can open doors.
Share Your Concerns
It’s completely normal to worry about risks or side effects. Every treatment option, including doing nothing, carries some level of risk. My responsibility is to help you weigh those risks thoughtfully.
When patients share their fears openly, we can walk through the decision together.
Think Long-Term
Many conditions such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and diabetes may not cause immediate symptoms. It’s easy to feel fine today and question whether treatment is necessary.
Over 40 years, I’ve seen how early prevention and timely intervention can make a significant difference five or ten years down the road. Often, addressing concerns early is far simpler than managing complications later.
Build a Partnership
Medicine works best when it’s a partnership. As a physician, I don’t see myself as someone who simply gives instructions. I see myself as a guide. I bring medical training and experience. You bring your values, priorities, and life circumstances. Together, we make decisions.
Trust is built through communication.
If you ever leave an appointment unsure, confused, or worried about next steps — please reach back out to your provider. Being a wise health care consumer means:
- Understanding your condition
- Asking questions
- Speaking openly about concerns
- Taking an active role in your care
I’m proud to say that this philosophy isn’t mine alone. Every provider at LCHC shares this same belief. We truly want to see our patients succeed — not only in managing their health conditions, but in living full, meaningful lives. Your health affects your family, your work, your goals, and your future. When we recommend care, it’s because we see the bigger picture and want to help you thrive in every area of life.