Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 1 Understanding Your Health and Wellness 11 Healthcare Services The healthcare field employs more people than any other type of business in the United States. The field is diverse and includes many types of professions and healthcare services. Some professions provide highly specialized services. People usually see their primary care physician (regular doctor) to get routine checkups, diagnosis of conditions, and receive medical treatment. Physician assistants and nurse practitioners also provide primary care. The physician assistant works under the supervision of physicians and usually provides the same types of healthcare services as a physician. A nurse practitioner has an advanced nursing education and can provide many of the same services as a doctor. Today, many people receive their primary care from physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners. Primary care physicians may also refer their patients to specialists who possess extra training and experience with certain types of diseases and disorders. Figure 1.4 shows the common types of specialists and the care they provide. CASE STUDY A Day in the Life of Sarah Next year, Sarah will be off to high school and almost old enough to get a job. Her mom works so hard, but there never seems to be enough money. As the oldest, it is Sarah's responsibility to take care of her younger siblings when her mom is at work. Sarah works so hard to take care of everyone else that she often does not take time to care for herself. Sarah learned in school about the importance of eating healthy and being physically active to promote positive health. Sarah is always so busy, though. She finds it a lot easier to grab some fast food at the restaurant down the street or some snacks at the nearby gas station on her way home from school. Sarah recently noticed that she has gained some weight. Due to her mom’s work schedule, Sarah cannot remember the last time she visited a doctor for a yearly check, until today that is. Sarah had to see the doctor because she has been thirsty and tired all the time, and her vision is blurred. The doctor informed Sarah's mother that Sarah's blood work indicated that she has type 2 diabetes and she needs to eat better to improve her health. She also has to take medicine now and check the level of sugar in her blood every day. Thinking Critically 1. How could preventive care have decreased the likelihood of Sarah’s diagnosis of type 2 diabetes? 2. How might Sarah’s life be different if Sarah and her mother received the guidance of a healthcare provider, such as a pediatrician? 3. If you were Sarah’s doctor, what advice would you give Sarah and her mom to improve Sarah’s health? Consider Sarah’s obstacles to healthy eating and mental and physical activity. 4. How could Sarah’s poor physical health affect her social and mental and emotional health? anetta/Shutterstock.com