I’m sure it’s pretty common information for all of us that when it comes to healthcare issues we must be our own advocates. Healthcare is an area that can get confusing quickly, that tendency to lean on a “go withthe flow” mentality can land us in a “the ball has been dropped” reality check. It’s one thing to have flexibility with appointment changes or the extra wait times in the back room. Quite another to not be heard and needs not be met.
A few tips to keep in mind that most don’t consider are:
Electronic communication, either email or via your doctors site is a nearly foolproof way of keeping documented conversations and history of things that most forget when a problem arises.
If at anytime you are feeling as if you’re not being heard, all medical offices have someone in charge of that office. Simply request to see/speak with the office manager.
Being clear of what your need is and not minimizing it whether it’s a certain time, location or even simple clarification of process is enough of a reason to request call backs from those we often assume are too busy to be disturbed.
Whether it’s your first time experiencing more involved healthcare issues or ongoing chronic issues, a big part of self-care and self advocacy is knowing yourself well enough to know what will work for you in the healing and continued wellness arena. Remembering that you are both the consumer as well as the main person on the team can help you find your voice in such a way that it gets heard effectively.
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Marie is a Certified Life Coach specializing in the needs of Family Caregivers. Merging her professional experience of over 20 yrs. as a Healthcare Navigator, Patient Advocate, & Caregiver for families nationwide with her personal journey in Care. Her hope is to shine a light & bridge the gap between the professional and the layperson.
