Doctors Pushed to Treat Unhealthy Behaviors

Doctors should devote as much attention to people’s unhealthy habits as they do to treating the consequences, such as high blood pressure, a new report says. The new policy statement comes from the American Heart Association (AHA). It urges doctors to follow the “five A’s” in caring for patients. The first “A” would be to assess people’s behaviors that increase their risk of heart disease. Examples might include poor diet, smoking or lack of exercise. Then doctors would advise them to change, such as quitting smoking. Doctor and patient would agree on an action plan. Finally, doctors would assist with treatment and arrange for follow-up care. Part of the plan would be to refer patients to specialists who could help with behavior change. These might include a dietician, a psychologist or a health educator.