Navigating healthcare can be hard! HMO, PPO, deductibles, specialist for this and that. It is easy to feel lost in the process or feel that it is happening to you. I want you to feel empowered! After all, it is your health we are talking about. Here are a few simple tips to help you be your own best medical advocate.
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Make sure your doctor has your medical records BEFORE your appointment. Helpful information to gather for your OBGYN:
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Abnormal Pap smear reports
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Pathology reports if you’ve had surgery – for example cervical biopsies, hysterectomy, removal of one or both ovary
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Most recent pap smear
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Most recent mammogram report
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Last years labs
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List of any pregnancy complications
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Keep a record of your medical history. A written list or note on your phone works great.
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Any medical diagnoses?
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What medicines and supplements do you take? What doses?
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When were your most recent screening exams? Pap? Mammogram? Colonoscopy?
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What surgeries have you had?
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Any significant family history?
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Having abnormal bleeding? Keep a menstrual diary.
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Take a trusted friend or family member with you to your appointment.
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They can be an extra set of ears.
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They can help you process the information.
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Ask them to take notes.
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Encourage them to speak up and ask questions.
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Do you have specific questions for your provider?
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Make a list of your questions
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Speak up. If you don’t understand an answer, ask for clarification.
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Communicate your goals.
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It’s perfectly okay to have done your research beforehand. Compare notes and get clarification from your provider.
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Don’t leave the office until you understand the plan for follow-up.
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When do I come back?
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How do I take the medication if one was prescribed? What side effects should I watch for?
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What interventions do I need to try at home?
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If you don’t feel heard, get a second opinion. Your voice matters.
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Ask friends and family for recommendations.
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Remember you have a choice which provider you see.
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