someone else posted on another thread on this forum that their perception is that many "old people" make a sort of hobby going to doctors! He commented on someone who said he had 100+ doctor appointments that year
First, going to a doctor is rarely enjoyable. Secondly, people don't choose how many doctors or visits they make. It just works out that way at times. Someone has a problem, goes to a doctor, gets sent to another, who sends them to yet another, and so on. Each doctor then orders a myriad of tests, all of which require yet another appointment, then, usually, a follow-up appointment. It can get out-of -hand.
When we first moved here, about 10 years ago, I sought out a primary care physician. She ordered so many tests I was appalled! However, I realized they were all baseline tests for wellness, etc, such as mammogram, bone density, etc. I dutifully had them done. Then, they all came due again
I did discuss the tests with PCP and we were able to delay some tests, etc. However, I did begin to realize, I do have to make a commitment to my health. And to my DH health. Its really not fun, nor a hobby, to keep your health in line, but necessary. Keeping on top of insurance coverage also becomes a necessary chore! Please excuse some of us older folks if we discuss it more than some would like to hear (and I do try to keep a lid on it), but it does become a responsibility towards ourselves, and a type of job (AKA chore).
Sometimes I get so sick of the never ending doc-go-'round, I declare a month off. This year its November. NO doctors, tests, or dentists that month! Whatever can wait for a month! As we get older, our health needs more attention, so, make up our minds to do it!
There are payoffs, such as a longer, healthier life!
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