Health Blitz

Once a year, it's good to have a health blitz and take care of any health concerns that have been bothering you, as well as routine health appointments that might have been forgotten.
This time of year is perfect to do your health blitz, as the weather is mild and sunny, making hopping around town to various doctors' offices quite pleasant. It's not nearly as enjoyable when it's cold and snowy outside.

There are six steps for your health blitz:

1a. From head to toe, write down which of these doctors you need to visit. It's recommended that you visit each one at least once a year and the dentist twice a year.

- Optician
- Dentist
- Gynecologist
- General doctor (for an annual check-up)

1b. You might have special health needs, so if you do, add these doctors to your list. For example, a podiatrist for your feet, a dermatologist if you have any worries about moles, etc.

1c. Your list might include alternative practitioners, such as a chiropractor or acupuncturist.

If you haven't been for a long time, don't feel guilty or ashamed. It's better to visit now and address the problem head-on than to feel bad every time the thought enters your mind.

2. Now you have a list of the doctors and practitioners to visit. If you have a doctor who you like, then write their telephone number on your list. If you have a doctor that you don't enjoy visiting, whether it's because the receptionist is rude or the doctor's style doesn't resonate with you, it's time to find a new one.

The best way to find a new professional is to ask people in your life who they visit and can recommend. If you have one professional you enjoy working with, ask them to recommend someone in the field you are looking for.

3. Once you have got the numbers of everyone you need to see, sit down with a cup of tea and pick up the phone. Think beforehand what the best time of day is for you. You might like to go straight after work or at lunch time.
It's probably not a good idea to see everyone in a week - you will be worn out! However, you could make a personal goal to see one doctor a week until you have seen everyone.

4. Once you have your appointments scheduled, start to jot down the questions you want to ask each doctor. This is so you don't have to rely on your memory when you are face-to-face with your doctor.

5. Take something fun to do in the waiting room. It could be a gossip magazine to read or a Sudoku puzzle, whatever is fun for you. Waiting times can be long, so have something interesting and compelling to take the edge off any boredom.

6. Once you have seen everyone you will feel so good. There might be a few follow-ups that you need to go to, for example if you need new glasses. However, generally you will find you are in tip-top condition and all set for another year!!!