5 Simple Steps Anyone Can Use To Be A Better Self-Advocate For Their Health!

Most of us have experienced that head-slapping moment after leaving the doctor’s office where we realize that we never asked that question or maybe even multiple questions we had when we set the appointment. Sometimes these questions are simply forgotten in the stress of the moment or worse, we are never given the chance to ask them becuase our doctor is too busy talking over us or focused on something we didn’t even come in to talk to them about. If you are like most of us then try out these steps from Doc MB for better self-advocacy in healthcare.

STEP 1: Prioritize Your Health!

This step might seem like another forehead-slapper because it is. You can’t advocate for yourself if you are not making your health a priority. Pay attention to your body and your health needs. Stop putting off doctors’ appointments. When you do set up an appointment, be up front about why you’re making the appointment. You do not have to give them every nitty gritty detail, but give them enough information to set an appropriately timed appointment. It’s your health, so act like it.

STEP 2: Create A Game Plan!

Great, you’ve booked your appointment! That won’t do you any good if you don’t speak up for yourself once you get in the door. If you’re worried about forgetting a question or want to make sure everything gets answered, then make a list and bring it with you. It is a lot harder to forget a question when it is written down in front of you.

STEP 3: Build Your Team!

Chances are, if you have been putting off any care, then you need to see more than one type of provider. Start researching who you might want to see and build a roster of potential providers. This way, when you ask for a referral, you already know who you want to see and why. But remember, sometimes your team extends to more than just your healthcare providers. It’s ok to bring a buddy with you to the doctor. That buddy might be a relative like your mom or a spouse or a friend, no matter who they are, if you want them there, then bring them. A buddy advocate might remember a question you forgot to write down or might think of a follow-up question to something the doctor said that you did not think of in the moment.

STEP 4: Be Your Own Cheerleader!

If you don’t feel heard or seen, then get louder and make them see you. Don’t do anything that will get you kicked out or arrested, but if your doctor is glossing over issues or concerns, ask them to stop, go back, and answer your questions. If you are uncomfortable with a provider or they are not making you feel seen, don’t be afraid to seek out a second or third, or even fourth opinion. Don’t give up until you get answers from a provider you trust.

STEP 5: Know The Score!

Keep good records. Had a scan? Ask for a copy and know the date. Had a blood test? Save a copy of your results with a note reminding you why they were testing your blood in the first place. Going to the doctor because you have been sick? Keep a symptom journal to show them. Keeping clear records can help speed up visits and possibly save you money on duplicate testing. Know your past, but also be clear about your future. If you are walking out of an appointment, you should know when you are seeing that provider again and what your next steps are. If they are prescribing a medication, when, how often, and for how long should you take it? If they are giving you a referral, have that provider’s information written down. If they want you to get a scan or blood drawn, know where and when to go for them. Always keep a record AND have clear next steps!