Americans put off health care during the pandemic, and it's time to catch up

A doctor
According to the CDC, 41 percent of U.S. adults had delayed emergency and routine health care by the end of June 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Thirdman on Pexels file

Did you put off medical appointments or procedures during the past year because of the pandemic? You're not alone. 

Hundreds of thousands of people delayed appointments for everything from cancer screenings to teeth cleanings. People managing chronic conditions such as diabetes have often went without routine care in many cases because of financial strain or a disruption in insurance coverage since the start of the pandemic.  

And many parents postponed getting their children vaccinated for diseases like the measles. 

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two doctors about the impact of delayed medical care and how health systems are helping people catch up on important appointments. 

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Angela also talks with the CEO of a nonprofit that opened an indoor tiny house village in Minneapolis’ North Loop neighborhood this week. The 100 homes provide shelter for people who were previously homeless.

Guests:

  • Dr. Dawn Martin is a pediatrician with Hennepin Health Care in Minneapolis. 

  • Dr. Christopher Boelter is a urologist for CentraCare in St. Cloud.

  • Kelly Matter is the president and CEO of Avivo, a Minneapolis-based nonprofit that provides support services for people experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders and mental illness.

Use the audio player above to listen to the program.

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