Advocate for Yourself at the Doctor
At the doctor's office, speaking up for oneself requires some preparation and practice. There are tips you can follow before, during, and after your appointment so you can get the care you need and deserve.
Meeting your health care needs can be challenging. If you have persistent symptoms, chronic pain, or you know something isn't quite right, you may have to make several frustrating trips to the doctor's office.
If you are Black, identify as female, or part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, there may be additional barriers to getting the care that is right for you.
In 2021, researchers conducted a survey involving Black people living in California. The results revealed that nearly 1 in 3 were treated unfairly in the medical system because of the color of their skin. This number was even higher among Black people who had a disability or identified as LGBTQIA+.
Many women have had difficult experiences in the health care system. The 2021 interviews explored some of the barriers women face in seeking health care. The results showed that 73% of participants felt that people ignored their needs or felt unheard at their last medical appointment.
Studies cited in a 2016 study showed that LGB people face many barriers to accessing needed health care, so they may be more likely to receive lower quality health care.
Self-advocacy entails taking steps to have your needs met. In a health care setting, self-advocacy can help you get the time and attention you need. Advocating for yourself can help your health care professional understand your needs and expectations.
10 Tips to Become Your Own Advocate
You have a right to receive the medical care that is appropriate for you. If you're not receiving the treatment you require, it's not your responsibility. Furthermore, it is not your responsibility to alter a system that occasionally fails to satisfy your requirements.
Despite this, you can take action. You can follow some advice before, during, and after a doctor's appointment. Here are some suggestions for making the most of your visit to the doctor.
1. Book for Success
When you call the office to book, tell the receptionist what you would like to discuss. You don't have to share your entire story, but giving some details ahead of time can ensure that the length of the appointment is appropriate.
If you're struggling with pain or fatigue, try to book a time of day when you're in better shape. If at all possible, think about scheduling an earlier appointment. Your health care professional may feel more relaxed and be able to listen to your needs better.
2. Practice what you will say
Considering what you want to say and how you will express it can be beneficial. Consider your major worry and how you might let your doctor know about it. It can be beneficial to practice saying it aloud before hand.
It's also a good idea to have a few lines prepared in case you feel unheard or misunderstood. A excellent example is "Can I try to explain this again?" comes to mind. Or not. that's not quite right. It's more like this..."
3. Bring a friend
If you find appointments overwhelming, you're not alone. Many people feel this way. Think of bringing a close friend or member of your family. Many situations can benefit from having an extra person. This person can be your support if you feel depressed or anxious. Additionally, you can use them as additional set of ears and note-takers.
Tell your support person how they can help. Make sure they know whether you'd prefer them to lead on with the details, listen quietly, or take notes.
4. Prioritize your questions and concerns
Make a list of your inquiries and worries before your session. Many people may find it difficult to remember everything they want to say after an appointment.
Keep in mind that you can't address everything in one appointment. To make the most of your time, it's a good idea to order the topics you wish to discuss.
5. Consider getting a second opinion
If you feel unsure or uncomfortable with your doctor's advice, you have the right to get a second opinion. Even if you're curious about other ideas or viewpoints, you can still seek a second opinion. People get second opinions all the time. You certainly wouldn't be the first to request this.
Many doctors also do this. They often prefer to talk about more complex matters with a colleague. Ask your doctor if they can refer you for another opinion or if there is someone with whom your doctor can discuss your case.
6. Ask lots of questions
Being your own advocate involves a lot of knowledge about your care plan. An excellent technique to learn more is to ask questions. Think about making a list of questions before your appointment and bringing it with you. If you feel unsure about something your doctor says, ask them to clarify it.
Inquire about other concepts or what others have done in comparable circumstances. If you start a new medicine, make sure you understand exactly how to take it and how to know if it is working.
7. Find Support
If you have a particular medical condition, joining a support group might be a terrific way to meet people. Having a network of people can help you get better care. Within the group, there will be a number of experiences with different health care professionals.
Within the group, suggestions for referrals are welcome. They can share any strategies they find useful. Support groups can also remind you that you are not alone in this challenging journey of finding the right care for yourself.
8. Learn as much as you can
It can be beneficial to continue studying about your diagnosis if you have one. You don't have to be completely knowledgeable about your medical situation.
If you knew the solutions, you wouldn't need assistance. If you can, keep abreast of the most recent diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Knowing about your condition can empower you to make proactive decisions in your care plan.
9. Keep detailed records
You can follow the progress of your health by keeping a record of your medical history. Keeping track of all those things in your head may be tough. Take notes about who you've met with, their recommendations, what tests you've had, and what medications you've taken.
Bring these records to your medical appointments. They will allow your health care professional to learn more about your health history and what you have already had. If you have frequent symptoms, consider keeping a symptom journal.
10. Understand the follow-up plan
Advocating for yourself also includes making sure there is an ongoing plan for care. Make sure you understand what role you and your doctor play in the follow-up plan. Make sure you know exactly how to take it and for how long if you have a new prescription.
Knowing what to keep in mind when starting a new medication is a good idea. If you're waiting for a referral or testing, find out how long you can expect to wait. Ask if there are any symptoms to watch out for that may mean you need to contact a doctor sooner.
take away
Organizing the health care system can take a lot of work. This takes additional time and energy, which may already be depleted if you have a chronic condition. But you deserve a lot more care. Self-advocacy means speaking up and taking action to get your needs met. There are several tips you can follow to become your own advocate.
