‘Farmers have a closer relationship with their vets than their doctors’

FARMERS have a closer relationship with their vet than their doctor, says Dr Richardson.

He believes the farming community, and society at large, needs to challenge traditional masculine bravado — that “real men” don’t go to the doctor.

Dr Richardson, who lives in Kilkenny City, explains how these “rubbish notions” have the potential to undermine men’s capacity to look after themselves in later life.

He also challenges the traditional role that women have played in male farmers’ health, in which women are seen as the caregivers, while men are the providers. He says men need to take greater ownership of their own health.

“The reality is that many farmers probably see their vet more frequently than they would their own doctor in any given year,” he says. “If farmers would only think about that for a second and ask themselves, ‘What does that say about how much I am prioritising my animals’ health above my own health?’

“Cows can be replaced but farmers can’t, so it’s really important to see that as a critical relationship in your life.”

He says it’s important that farmers seek out a GP they can trust and have confidence in, so that it becomes second nature to make contact without thinking too much about it.

“If you ignore something, it is likely to cause a much, much bigger problem down the tracks. If it’s a cancer scare; if you’re passing blood in your stool; if you felt a lump; if you notice a change in your skin; if there is a mole that changes over time, you could potentially be creating a much bigger problem.

“Early prevention and seeing your doctor is a critical thing for farmers.”