Heard of the AIA Vitality Zones? They’re 45 of the healthiest communities in Australia, where residents live up to eight years longer on average than the rest of the country.
Aside from their general commitment to eating well and moving often, these thriving Aussies are proactive when it comes to their health. So, what are they doing differently?
They have regular check-ups
Most of us see a doctor when we're sick, but what about when we're well? Although regular checkups require more time, they do more than just improve our understanding of our own health—they're essential for early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. To find out which health checks are right for you, visit AIA Vitality’s Know Your Health page. AIA Vitality members earn points for completing certain health checks, which helps them progress in AIA Vitality Status, unlocks rewards and enables them to better know their health.
Take AIA Vitality member Joanna Atzori, whose routine mammogram led to the discovery of carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in her right breast. Fortunately, Joanna's cancer was caught early and treated, but the lesson has stayed with her: "You can't see or feel everything happening in your body, so it's vital to get these checks done, even if you feel well or think you're healthy."
They're on good terms with their doc
You know that sense of comfort and ease you feel around someone you know and trust? When was the last time you felt that as a patient? While it can take some time to find a doctor you click with, developing a good relationship with your GP can improve the level of care we receive and our understanding of our own wellbeing.
For example, 47% of Vitality Zones residents report feeling more confident in communicating their healthcare needs and concerns to their healthcare provider, versus the national average (42%). They’re also more likely to have at least one healthcare provider who knows them well, 42% versus 38% nationally.
They self-advocate
Sometimes, speaking up about your health concerns can be nerve-wracking or just awkward—you might even wonder if it's worth mentioning anything at all? But choosing to stay silent in the moment, lead to bigger complications down the track.
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Healthcare found that nearly 60% of adult Australians have low health literacy, leading to more doctor visits, poorer health outcomes, and a limited understanding of their own health. In contrast, articulating our symptoms (however ambiguous or minor they may be), asking questions and requesting complex medical information be laid out in clear, simple terms, can empower us with the insight we need to make informed decisions for our health, long-term.
Scheduling a doctor’s appointment might feel like just another task on your life-admin list, but, like taking a daily walk and eating a healthy meal, regular check-ups are an invaluable investment in your long-term health. After all, a 15-minute check-up could make a big difference in the long run.
