Experience Health Tracking: A Doctor’s Office That Functions as a Gym
A new approach to health and fitness is emerging in New York City, where the wellness platform Eternal Health offers a unique blend of medical care and performance tracking. The company recently introduced a $499 annual Primary Care membership that allows individuals to monitor their health metrics in a setting that resembles a gym rather than a traditional clinic. This service aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of health, bridging the gap between medical insight and physical performance.
While traditional doctor visits often feel rushed and provide limited guidance, Eternal Health’s model encourages proactive health management. The Primary Care membership includes a dedicated team comprising a doctor, nurse practitioner, and care coordinator. Patients also receive annual laboratory tests and a DEXA scan, all monitored through an app that syncs with wearable technology. Dr. Desmond Wilson, the Chief Medical Officer at Eternal, explains that this system aims to “close the loop between medical care, physical performance, and everyday health.”
Transforming the Doctor’s Visit
Eternal Health’s facility stands apart from conventional medical offices. Instead of a sterile environment, the space is designed for movement and activity. Patients engage with the environment, often feeling more like athletes than patients. To begin the process, individuals download the Eternal app and complete an intake questionnaire covering their exercise habits, diet, medical history, and fitness goals. This is followed by a blood work panel that informs individualized health assessments.
The performance evaluation includes a full-body DEXA scan, which measures muscle mass, body fat percentage, and bone density. Following this, patients participate in a rigorous strength and mobility circuit designed to assess their physical capabilities. The evaluations cover various aspects of fitness, including aerobic health and stability, allowing for a detailed understanding of each individual’s strengths and weaknesses.
After completing the performance session, patients receive insights from their assessments. This data is benchmarked against that of highly active clients, revealing valuable information about areas for improvement. For example, one participant discovered they were in the 59th percentile for lower body strength but only in the 12th percentile for hip strength, highlighting a potential risk for stability issues.
Revolutionizing Preventative Care
Eternal’s approach to health care emphasizes a shift from reactive to preventative medicine. The Primary Care plan offers consistent access to healthcare professionals, eliminating the long wait times that often accompany traditional appointments. Additional services, such as personal coaching and nutrition counseling, can be integrated into the care plan.
Dr. Wilson stresses the importance of connecting various health data points, stating, “There’s too much fragmentation in healthcare. It’s like being lost in the woods with a map, a compass, and GPS, but no idea which direction to go. We want to be the guide that connects all those tools for you.” This holistic approach not only aids in understanding individual health metrics but also fosters a collaborative relationship between patients and their healthcare providers.
The results from the assessments are delivered through the Eternal app, providing patients with actionable insights based on their performance and health data. Elevated lactate levels and insulin readings were interpreted within the context of lifestyle factors, allowing participants to understand how various elements of their daily lives impact overall health.
At $499 per year, the Primary Care membership may not be affordable for everyone, especially as it currently lacks insurance coverage. However, its value lies in the personalized attention and advanced health metrics that traditional checkups often overlook. For those prioritizing longevity and performance, the investment may prove worthwhile. As a promotional offer, Eternal Health is currently offering the first year for just $99, making it more accessible for potential users.
Overall, the experience at Eternal Health highlights the importance of understanding one’s body and health data. By integrating medical care with fitness tracking, individuals can take a proactive approach to their wellness journey, setting realistic goals and working towards a healthier lifestyle in 2026 and beyond.
