Regardless of my own experience with it, the premise of it is that someone restricts their eating in odd ways to try to be “healthier.” It concerns me that this is another unhealthy fad masquerading as a legitimate way to be healthier.

The machine, which is located on the 24-hour floor, is a Pharmabox, and it contains items ranging from over-the-counter medications, sunscreen, batteries and vitamins, as well as sexual health, feminine hygiene, eye care and dental health products. 

When enough people in a community are vaccinated against a disease, it can’t travel as easily from person to person, and the entire community is less likely to catch it. This phenomenon is called herd immunity, and it helps keep everyone safe.

Although I came in feeling like a strong woman taking charge of her health, I immediately felt like a teenage girl being warned not to get pregnant. My doctor took me through a birth control tour unprompted, showing off an IUD like a brand new Mercedes. I said I would think about it.