To get its numbers, the group looked at three main areas:
Access to healthcare, measured by the percentage of adults who had healthcare coverage, annual dental visits, and a personal doctor.
Rates of immunizations among children, teens, and adults.
Access to chronic-disease-prevention methods, measured by the percentage of adults who had their cholesterol checked, had a colorectal cancer screening, or were told they had high blood pressure.
The data for the report was gathered from government reports including Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System reports, the 2014 National Immunization Survey, and other published studies.
By training, I am a American Board Certified Pediatrician. But in my younger years I grew up with natural alternatives. As a mom I have tried to incorporate both for my kids and it has worked wonders. And finally, as I am studying natural & alternative medicines, I realize the beauty and wisdom of living closer to earth. Hence in my practice I integrate both...for acute ailments I follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation but for simple and/or chronic conditions I prefer natural alternatives.
In western training we were raised to think that "health is the absence of symptoms and problems". But eastern sensibilities has educated me that "Health is state that allows one to use the full capabilities of their body, mind and intellect. Therefore, healthy living is a balanced state of well being: physically, mentally, socially and spiritually." This implies that healing is not a "one-pill-fits-all", but a personalized experience.
