Many are missing out on health screening

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

Too few Americans are getting the screening they need to protect their health, according to a new report.
The National Healthcare Quality Report is a good barometer of health in the US. The latest, published by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, concludes that the overall quality of the US healthcare system is improving. But people are missing out on important advice and screening that could protect their future health.

For instance, only 52 per cent of those who could benefit are getting colorectal cancer screening. And fewer than half of obese adults say they have received recommended counseling on diet. Only 28 per cent with asthma had an asthma management plan - something that could really help them avoid hospitalization.

People with diabetes need to have regular blood sugar tests, foot exams and eye exams, to avoid the complications of their conditions. According to this report, only 48 per cent of adults with diabetes receive all three screens on a regular basis. People need to work with their doctors to ensure they receive all the advice, screens and checks they need to keep existing conditions under control, and to prevent new ones from developing if at all possible.

Source
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality 13th January 2007

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