Consumers’ health care expectations transformed by pandemic

After more than two years of diagnosis-by-Zoom, patients are looking for more meaningful communications and relationships with their health care professionals. That’s according to a new CVS 2022 Health Care Insights Study, which shows that people are embracing lifestyle changes post-pandemic as essential elements of overall health.

The report states that consumers are looking at health care in a more holistic way. Eight-one percent of people surveyed say it’s important that their primary care provider be aware of their overall happiness and satisfaction with life. The same percentage also say they want their primary care provider to be aware of their stress levels and how they’re dealing with difficult situations.

As many Americans have emerged from lockdown, their changing habits and behavior are emerging as areas of focus. For example, 44% of people are upping their physical activity levels, 39% are focused on lowering stress, 38% are looking at losing weight and 38% are interested in eating a balanced diet. And as these behaviors come into focus, 80% also say it’s important for their primary care providers to be aware of their health goals.