Why Men Avoid the Doctor, and Why That Needs to Change
By Nicolas Chronos, MD, FACC, FESC
Let’s talk about something that’s quietly affecting the health and longevity of men across the country. Perhaps it’s even affecting you or someone you love: the tendency to avoid the doctor.
Recent headlines have brought this into sharper focus. President Biden’s announcement about his prostate cancer diagnosis reminded the nation that even leaders at the highest level are not immune to common men’s health issues. And with more public figures dying from coronary artery disease in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, it is a sobering reminder of the importance of early detection and preventive care.
Why Do So Many Men Avoid the Doctor?
- “I feel fine.” Many serious health issues, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and early-stage cancers, don’t cause symptoms. Feeling fine doesn’t always mean you are fine.
- Fear of bad news. No one wants to hear that something might be wrong, but avoiding the doctor doesn’t prevent problems, it only delays treatment.
- Time and convenience. Life is busy, and men often prioritize work or family over their own health. But regular check-ups take less time than managing a chronic illness.
- Comfort level. For some men, the traditional clinic experience can feel too rushed or too impersonal, especially when facing sensitive or long-standing concerns.
What You Can Do Right Now
There are clear, evidence-based steps men can take to protect their health. At Lake Country Medical Group, we encourage men to talk with their doctor about:
- Prostate cancer screening, including PSA testing, especially if you are over 50 or have a family history
- Cardiac screening with stress testing or coronary calcium scoring to assess heart disease risk
- Cholesterol and blood pressure management, which remain two of the biggest drivers of heart disease
- Advanced labs and imaging that can detect warning signs before symptoms appear
- Newer preventive tools, such as genetic testing and non-invasive heart disease risk assessments
When men have access to these tools, and are guided by a team that takes the time to explain their options, they are more likely to take action before it’s too late.
We Meet You Where You Are
At Lake Country Medical Group, we understand that no two patients are alike. Some men prefer the convenience and structure of a traditional practice with a trusted team behind them, and we are proud to offer that level of comprehensive care every day.
But for those looking for something more personalized, private, or direct, we also offer Lake Country Medical Concierge. This membership-based model gives you more time with your physician, same-day or next-day appointments, direct communication access, and a more relaxed setting where deeper conversations can happen.
It is still the expert care you expect from Lake Country Medical Group, but tailored for individuals who prefer a more one-on-one, proactive relationship with their doctor.
This Men’s Health Month, Take the First Step
Men are statistically more likely than women to suffer from serious health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, and certain types of cancer. Many of these illnesses can go undetected for years without regular check-ups and screenings. Unfortunately, they often are only discovered after they have already done damage.
The good news is that with modern testing, early detection, and preventive strategies, we can identify risks before they become problems. Whether it’s a simple blood test, a heart scan, or a prostate screening, these tools save lives when used early.
This Men’s Health Month, we encourage you to make yourself a priority. Whether it has been six months or six years since your last visit, now is the time to schedule a check-up, ask questions, and take control of your health. You owe it to yourself and to the people who count on you.
We are here to make that first step easier, whether you choose our traditional clinic or our concierge program.
General Appointments: Call 706-485-4004
Interested in Concierge Care? Call (706) 309-4965 or visit www.lakecountrymedicalconcierge.com to learn more.
Because strength isn’t avoiding the doctor, it’s taking charge of your future.
Dr. Nicolas Chronos
Cardiologist & Internal Medicine Specialist
Lake Country Medical Group
Lake Country Medical Concierge