DYK? How to level up your healthcare in 2023
As we enter the uncharted post-pandemic territory, many mamas are tired of dealing with appointment delays, hidden costs, and poor access to providers. FreedomDoc is tackling these issues and more with Direct Primary Care (DPC). We spoke to Dr. Boyer from FreedomDoc Zionsville to discover emerging trends, innovations, and technology available to moms when managing family health.
What are some advancements in healthcare that moms should be looking for in 2023?
Because of Covid, telemedicine has become a lot more mainstream. It encompasses a lot of different platforms, not just video appointments. I love that our office offers instant messaging and emailing directly with me. Telemedicine increases the accessibility of medicine, making it more convenient for moms and families. We use a HIPAA-compliant private portal for texting, so if something comes up after hours, parents can text me and get an answer quickly. It is rare in traditional offices that you can talk to your doctor that easily.
KEEPING UP WITH US HEALTHCARE TRENDS? Dr. Boyer recs the podcast, Healthcare Americana, hosted by Freedom Healthworks.
What is your favorite technology or apps for managing health at home?
It depends on each patient’s health goals:
Many people love their Fitbit or Apple watch, which is excellent for tracking physical activity and setting reminders to drink water or take a walk. Anything that reminds you to incorporate movement and hydration is helpful.
Smart scales that measure not just weight but body fat, muscle mass, BMI, and bone mass are great for tracking health goals. These scales can calculate your stats and upload them directly to your phone. Seeing these changes in real-time may better motivate you toward your goals.
Apps for behavioral health and counseling services are also growing in popularity as options for people who want the benefits of therapy but don’t have time for appointments during regular business hours.
Ensure you’re setting realistic, attainable goals that won’t be overwhelming. I encourage you to experiment with apps and find the methods that work best for you.
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What current health trends have you excited?
Direct primary care is becoming more mainstream as people discover its benefits. It is helpful, especially for families, and Moms can rely on increased access to their doctor and avoid unnecessary trips to urgent care.
There are so many fitness apps and options for exercise, so you can pick what’s best for you. In addition, there is an endless supply of resources for educating yourself via blogs, podcasts, YouTube channels, and apps.
Also, I love that schools are now teaching kids breathing exercises to help them cope with strong emotions.
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Are you seeing increased interest in holistic and homeopathic care?
Many patients are looking into holistic modalities, which are great for reducing stress levels. However, patients must remember that it's not FDA regulated and often lacks robust scientific research.
As a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), I want to address the root cause of illness while ensuring my patients' health in mind, body, and spirit. That is the principle of osteopathy. I don't just want to prescribe medicine or use a quick fix. I take an all-inclusive approach to health with my patients.
Meditation, yoga, massage therapy, and other holistic interventions are great for managing stress and quieting the mind. The more we can reduce anxiety and stress, the healthier we feel. If it helps calm your mind, it will benefit your health.
