As a nurse, it’s not uncommon to hear the frustration in the voices of colleagues—or even in our own internal dialogue: “Why don’t they just take their medication?” or “Why should I care more than them?” These sentiments are echoed across healthcare settings, from emergency rooms to primary care clinics. The assumption that people are indifferent about their health choices is a common one. But is it really true? More often than not, this perception is based on visible behavior without understanding the deeper reasons behind it. What if, instead, we started with a different assumption—people genuinely want to be healthy but face obstacles that make it challenging? Shifting our mindset to believe in the inherent desire for health not only encourages a more empathetic approach to care but also creates a supportive environment where patients feel understood and empowered to take control of their well-being.

The misconception in healthcare

The belief that people are indifferent to their health has become a prevalent mindset in many healthcare settings. This misconception frequently stems from observing patients making unhealthy choices, missing appointments, or not following medical advice. It’s easy for healthcare providers to feel frustrated and assume that patients simply don’t care about their health.

However, this perspective can lead to biases and even dismissive attitudes that lead providers to unintentionally offer less support or empathy. Such assumptions overlook the complex reality that many patients face, including socioeconomic factors, mental health issues, or a lack of health literacy. When healthcare providers focus only on the surface behaviors without understanding the underlying challenges, the quality of patient care can suffer, and the trust necessary for effective healthcare relationships may be undermined. By perpetuating this misconception, healthcare professionals risk creating a cycle of misunderstanding and missed opportunities to provide the compassionate, tailored care that patients truly need.

Evidence of the desire to be healthy

Anecdotal evidence alone suggests that many Americans are invested in their well-being. Just look at the surge of interest in fitness trackers, health apps, and wellness programs—everyone seems to have become their own health coach overnight. The pandemic made health a top priority, and suddenly people were trying to become experts on everything from immune-boosting diets to home workout routines, even if some of their methods were a bit, let’s say, “creative.” Remember all those homemade remedies and dubious advice circulating online? Although some of these practices weren’t backed by science, they showed a genuine desire to be healthier.

This enthusiasm wasn’t limited to physical health; interest in mental health, mindfulness, and holistic wellness also increased. People want to feel better and live healthier lives; they just sometimes need the right guidance and resources to accomplish it effectively. The desire to be healthy is widespread, even if navigating the path to wellness can be a bit confusing.

Barriers to health and perception

Although the desire to be healthy is strong, many people face significant barriers that prevent them from acting on their health goals. Socioeconomic factors play a major role; many American face limited access to healthcare, nutritious food, or safe places to exercise. Confusion about health information can further complicate matters. Experiencing a bombardment of conflicting advice on best practices makes it hard to know what to believe.

Time constraints are another major hurdle; juggling work, personal obligations, and family responsibilities leaves little room to focus on health. This is something nurses can relate to as well, as we frequently struggle to find time for our own well-being amid demanding schedules.

It’s easy to assume people don’t care about their health when, in reality, they simply lack the time, resources, or clarity needed to make informed choices. The perception that people are indifferent to their health overlooks these genuine struggles. In truth, many are doing their best to navigate life’s demands and would prioritize their health if they had the support and opportunity to do so. For nurses, health is our job, but even we know how hard it can be to balance everything and stay informed. Imagine how challenging it is for others without the same training or background.

Changing the healthcare culture

A broader cultural shift within healthcare is needed to prioritize the desire and potential of patients over perceived disinterest or non-compliance. We must move away from assumptions that patients are simply not interested in their health and instead recognize the challenges they face. Healthcare systems should consider adopting policies that operate on the belief that patients genuinely want to be healthy. It’s important to remember that a few challenging interactions with uncooperative patients shouldn’t shape our view of all patients.

By focusing on the inherent desire for health that most individuals have, healthcare providers can create a more supportive and effective care environment, where patients feel empowered to actively participate in their own health journey. This shift in perspective can lead to more positive interactions between healthcare providers and patients, ultimately creating a more supportive environment for everyone involved.

Believe in the desire for health

Assuming that people want to be healthy is not just a hopeful mindset; it’s a powerful belief that can transform patient care. When nurses start from this place of positive assumption, it sets the stage for empathy, understanding, and support to thrive in every patient interaction. Attitudes are contagious, and when healthcare providers approach their work with optimism and compassion, it spreads to colleagues and patients alike, creating a more uplifting and collaborative environment.

As nurses, we have an enormous responsibility in caring for our patients, and part of that responsibility is to believe in their desire to be well. By leading with this belief, we not only support our patients in their health journeys but also enhance our own well-being and job satisfaction. A positive, proactive approach benefits everyone, reminding us why we chose this noble profession in the first place.

Joseph R. Travis, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C is a Nursing Professional Development Specialist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is the co-host of WellNURSE, a podcast dedicated to wellness in nursing, and serves as an Ambassador for the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes Foundation. Joey has a background in medical-surgical nursing and is passionate about supporting the growth and well-being of nurses, emphasizing purposeful and impactful practice.