According to new research, seven in 10 Americans (68%) are guilty of “patientsplaining” their online health findings to their doctor. A survey of 2,000 general-population Americans examined how they invest time in their health and found that three in four (77%) do at least some health-related research in their spare time. When they experience a change in their bodies, fewer respondents will schedule a doctor’s appointment first (30%) compared to those who would look their concerns up online themselves (32%).
Conducted by OnePoll for Vimergy , the survey finds those surveyed want to take an even greater interest in caring for their body, with the average person researching the best ways to care for their health five times within the past month. While a majority find their doctor’s advice to be useful, 30% worry that the advice they get isn’t specific enough to their needs. Based on the last time they saw their doctor , Americans estimate that just more than half of their health concerns were addressed.
Respondents acknowledge that health is not one size fits all, which is why a third complain they “always” or “often” feel the need to fill their doctor in about what’s been going on in their body to get the most accurate advice possible. These patients are active listeners, too. 83% ask their doctor more questions to better understand their health.
“An important part of taking care of your health is being attuned to your body’s needs and taking proactive steps to ensure you feel your best,” explains Philip McCluskey, founder of Vimergy. “To do this, it’s recommended to incorporate the highest quality ingredients, including liquid and powder formulas for faster absorption — allowing you to personalize your body’s daily health and supplement routine for your long-term health goals .” Since health needs are different across the board, 86% believe it’s important to advocate for your health based on your understanding of what your body needs.
For some, this might mean getting a second opinion about a situation. While doctors are professionals, they might not have all of the expertise or understand your exact needs when confronting them with a health problem. If something feels truly off, it might be worth getting a second opinion or looking into specialized care.
The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic saw a diagnosis change in 28% of their cases after second opinions. 72% of the patients who received that second look were given altered care and treatment plans. Advocating for your health might sometimes feel difficult, but making sure you're getting the right care and that doctors are taking your concerns seriously might be the key to life-saving care.
Talk to your doctor about a specialist in-network who might be able to look into your health concerns and give you a better diagnosis into what might be happening. A great first step to improving your health is to put the time and effort into it yourself. In 2024, respondents plan to be more involved than ever, looking to see the most improvements in their physical health and mental health .
However, it’ll take work to get there. 38% admit that the quality of effort they put into their health routine is just or even below average. Consequently, 42% anticipate that their health routine will need changes this year, and three-quarters of those surveyed say they'll commit to making improvements.
Financial boundaries aren't a factor in these cases — seven in 10 claim, no matter the cost, they will do what it takes to stay on top of their health (72%). To get here, respondents will consistently research solutions for their health needs this year, and 75% make it a goal to be more of an active advocate for what they believe their body needs when they go to the doctor. “When dealing with any health conditions, it’s always important to consult with your doctor for the best understanding of what your body needs,” says Andrea Pryce, ND (naturopathic doctor) and education and research manager.
“Our mission is to empower all to embrace self-advocacy and become an active participant in their own health. The combination of professional advice and the protection that daily supplements can provide increase your chances for a healthy life.” Yearly check-ups, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can truly help improve your health quality and your quality of life.
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