Balancing a demanding career while maintaining good health can be challenging for busy professionals. Time constraints often make it difficult to prioritize regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest. One Vancouver woman, Eleanor, found herself struggling to maintain her health while also working long hours and managing a busy schedule.
“I never know if I’ll be in Vancouver or on the road. If I have a client meeting, then I can’t make my appointment. I essentially put my healthcare on hold because I couldn’t make it fit my schedule,” says Eleanor.
Eleanor’s demanding travel schedule keeps her routine unpredictable. This lifestyle presents numerous challenges, particularly with navigating our community healthcare system. She frequently missed appointments that took weeks or months to schedule and struggled to get lab work done due to limited appointment times. Same day and last-minute options just weren’t available.
“My schedule is rarely consistent so unfortunately, taking care of my health often took a backseat,” reflects Eleanor, who would later find out that not having thorough medical care meant unknown issues went undetected.
Healthcare frustration leads to a better option
Eleanor didn’t realize there was an alternative until she shared a series of poor healthcare experiences with a friend.
“My previous provider took a biopsy. It wasn’t 8 months later when I called to check on it that I discovered it had never been ordered. Fortunately, it was all resolved, and of course mistakes happen, but I lacked confidence in my care going forward.”
Her friend raved about her healthcare team. She spoke highly of the attentive nurses, the knowledgeable providers, and the overall compassionate care she received. Eleanor couldn’t help but feel a bit jealous, as her own experiences with medical visits had been far less satisfactory.
“She said, ‘I love this place. They’ve taken such great care of me,’ so I had to check it out,” says Eleanor.
Hidden health condition found early
A symptom-free Eleanor attended her initial Personalized Health Assessment at Harrison Healthcare, feeling perfectly well.
“My blood pressure was completely normal. My blood work, however, was not great. My doctor, Dr. Beth Donaldson, informed me that going untreated, this particular result could lead to neurological problems. That moment was the turning point. I realized I was ready to make the necessary changes; all I needed was the right advice.”
Since this was discovered early, Eleanor was able to take action and avoid related health complications. The whole experience has made her a firm believer in the power of preventive healthcare.
Fortunately, the team at Harrison is exceptionally thorough and prioritizes prevention. As a result, the changes Eleanor needed to implement were relatively straightforward. Had the markers in her blood work gone undetected for longer, the damage could have been worse, requiring far more intensive treatment.
“I appreciate that Harrison’s first line of defense is lifestyle change and not medication. I don’t want to be reliant on something unless I absolutely have to be. In my case, dietary changes were all I needed.”
Practical advice for a busy lifestyle
Eleanor found that the advice was easy to follow, highly practical, and customized to her hectic lifestyle.
“Due to my job, I couldn’t avoid eating out frequently, so Gelina, my Registered Dietitian, adapted strategies that made eating out healthier.”
Eleanor’s adjustments were focused on avoiding high cholesterol meats, choosing beans, loading up on vegetables and adding in appropriate vitamin supplements.
“Before long, I was in great health once again, and as a bonus, I lost an extra 10 pounds. This change has been sustainable because my daily routine remains the same; I simply make slightly different choices,” says Eleanor about the ease and practicality of Gelina’s advice.
“Eleanor is highly motivated. She took our advice and really ran with it. In 5 months she brought all her blood work back within normal range,” says Gelina, “motivation and readiness to change are challenges many of us face. Despite having a busy career, she prioritized her health and has been so successful.”
The difference confidence makes
The stress-free approach to healthcare Harrison provides is well-suited for busy professionals. For Eleanor, the clear instructions from her doctor, dietitian, nurse and entire extended team, streamlined the process, making it smooth and stress-free. Each step has shown noticeable progress, instilling confidence in the approach and in her clinical team.
“There is a lot to be said for having confidence in your healthcare providers and the changes you are making. Knowing you are dedicating your time and effort to something that will produce results is so important. Having the support behind that advice is even more valuable,” Eleanor shares.
Convenience and flexibility
The thorough appointments and advice were the most valuable aspects for Eleanor, but coming in a very close second is convenience. Eleanor has been pleasantly surprised by the level of ease and flexibility offered. The clinic has operating hours that suit her schedule, same day appointments, virtual appointments, and a variety of communication options. Dr. Donaldson, Gelina and Eleanor’s extended care team are flexible about their communication formats and are happy to accommodate their client’s needs.
“I can read it and think about it and then ask questions. I don’t have to worry about a schedule,” Eleanor says about her ability to message any of her healthcare team members.
“And the response is prompt,” adds Eleanor, “often later that day, which means I can get the peace of mind and/or advice I need and then carry on with my day.”
Harrison Healthcare has allowed Eleanor to prioritize her health while maintaining a busy lifestyle. The convenience and accessibility of the clinic have made it possible for her to stay on top of appointments and make necessary changes easily without disrupting her schedule. This has not only improved her physical health, but also alleviated some of the mental burden associated with managing healthcare in a demanding career.
“I probably wouldn’t have seen the results I did if Harrison’s services didn’t fit into my schedule. That has been huge for me.”
Feeling grateful and at peace
Eleanor now enjoys a newfound peace of mind when it comes to her health. Gone are the days of uncertainty and frustration. Instead, she has embraced a proactive approach, feeling empowered by the knowledge and support provided by Harrison Healthcare.
“I tell everyone I know about my experiences here. It’s been such a delight. I’m where I would hope to be with my health, which is such a gift,” she says, adding, “Nothing matters if you don’t have your health.”
Eleanor’s experience with Harrison Healthcare exemplifies the power of personalized, preventive care. The benefits of tailored and strongly supported lifestyle changes are remarkable.
