Introduction
In today’s complex healthcare system, being a proactive advocate for yourself and your loved ones is crucial. Healthcare decisions can be overwhelming and confusing, but by taking an active role in your healthcare, you can ensure that you receive the best possible care and outcomes. In this article, we will discuss ten practical ways you can be a healthcare advocate, empowering you to navigate the system effectively.
1. Educate Yourself
The first step in becoming a healthcare advocate is to educate yourself about medical conditions, treatment options, and healthcare rights. Research reliable sources, consult medical professionals, and understand your medical history. Knowledge is power, and by staying informed, you can make more confident decisions regarding your healthcare.
Begin with your healthcare professional. Ask all your questions. It is their job to give you the information you need to make the best healthcare decisions possible. They may have printed information already available. Additionally, your healthcare provider may offer suggestions where you can find more information such as professional websites (ex. American Medical Association, Cancer.org, etc.).
A random Google search will uncover information, but the sources may not be trustworthy and accurate. Use caution.
What are reliable research sources? Information from the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Biotechnology Information are sources of reliable, verified medical information. A search via Google Scholar will offer valuable resources as well.
2. Build a Support Network
Create a network of healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians, specialists, and nurses, who can provide guidance and support. Having a trusted team that understands your medical history and treatment goals ensures effective communication and continuity of care. In addition, seek out support groups or online communities where you can connect with individuals facing similar health challenges.
Oftentimes a patient healthcare network is coordinated by a family physician. The family physician can make referrals, manage medicines, and coordinate treatment.
Be forewarned that doctors do not necessarily communicate results with each other. Nor do healthcare professionals always confer with each other regarding the healthcare and treatment plans of their patients. Check that your network of healthcare professionals is communicating with each other to make sure each one has the information they need to help you. You have the right to ask your healthcare network to conference with each other and make sure all parties are informed about the chosen treatment plan.
3. Be Prepared for Appointments
Prepare for healthcare appointments by making a list of questions and concerns you want to discuss with your healthcare provider. Take notes during the appointment to ensure that you understand the information provided. Being an active participant in the conversation fosters better communication and helps you make informed decisions.
Need help to prepare for healthcare appointments? Get our FREE Guide 7 QUESTIONS EVERYONE SHOULD ASK AT A DOCTOR APPOINTMENT.
4. Understand Your Health Insurance
Familiarize yourself with your health insurance policy to know your coverage, including deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses. Understand the process for obtaining referrals and pre-authorization for treatments or tests. Being knowledgeable about your insurance policy can help you navigate the financial aspects of healthcare and avoid unexpected bills. You can advocate for yourself regarding incorrect billing statements and insurance payments to prevent overcharges.
Need help understanding health insurance? Read our blog posts Insurance 101: Insurance for Patient Advocates and How to Read an Explanation of Benefits Form.
5. Keep Detailed Medical Records
Maintain organized medical records that include copies of test results, diagnoses, treatment plans, and medication lists. Having your medical history readily available enables you to share information accurately with healthcare providers, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring coordinated care. Consider using digital health apps or online platforms to securely store and access your medical records.
Detailed medical records establish your medical history. Understanding your medical history can help healthcare providers make better treatment plans for your healthcare. If keeping detailed medical records is confusing or overwhelming to you, learn how to organize and share your medical history with our online course Unleash the Power of Your Medical History.
6. Ask for Second Opinions
Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion, especially for significant diagnoses or treatment plans. Different doctors may offer alternative perspectives or approaches that can help you make more informed decisions about your healthcare. A second opinion provides reassurance and peace of mind, ensuring that you explore all available options.
The right to a second opinion is so important that the American Medical Association includes it in its Code of Medical Ethics Patient Rights.
7. Actively Participate in Treatment Decisions
Be an active participant in the decision-making process regarding your treatment. Ask your healthcare provider about the available options, potential risks and benefits, and any alternative treatments. Consider seeking shared decision-making, where you and your healthcare provider collaborate to make choices that align with your values and preferences.
Many times we think of questions to ask AFTER an appointment with a healthcare provider. Fortunately, there are options for follow-up. One of the best options is to communicate with the healthcare provider via a patient portal. Providers will typically respond within a day or two. It may also be possible to schedule a phone call or online meeting with your provider. Alternatively, schedule an additional in-person visit.
Actively participating in decision-making requires action on the part of the patient. Take control of your healthcare treatments by getting the healthcare information you need before making any decisions.
Learn more by reading out blog post The Role of Patient Advocates in Patient-Centered Care.
8. Stay Organized with Medications
Ensure that you understand your medication regimen, including dosage, frequency, and potential side effects. Keep an updated list of all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Communicate any changes in your medications to your healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions or adverse reactions.
Also, keep your pharmacy updated on all medications and over-the-counter drugs you are taking. Pharmacists are trained to answer your questions regarding medications. They may also be able to suggest less expensive generic versions of your prescription. If you have difficulty taking a particular FORM of medication (capsules, tablets, etc.), pharmacists may be able to provide an easier-to-take or more palatable choice.
For more information, read out blog post How to Keep Track of Medicine.
9. Advocate for Preventive Care
Promote preventive care by scheduling regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations. Understand recommended screenings based on your age, gender, and medical history. By taking proactive steps to prevent illness and detect conditions early, you can improve your overall health outcomes.
Ask your healthcare provider for a list of screenings and vaccinations appropriate for you. Patient portals may provide similar information.
Use this information as a “healthcare dashboard”. You will see at a glance how test and screening values compare and trend over time. Keep track of your results. By understanding what the results mean, you are a more informed healthcare consumer and can ask better questions about your healthcare and treatment options.
For more information, read our blog post Empowerment and Patient Advocacy.
10. Speak Up for Your Rights
Know your rights as a patient and don’t be afraid to speak up if you feel your needs are not being met or if you have concerns about your care. Familiarize yourself with patient rights and responsibilities, and understand the process for filing complaints or grievances. Effective communication and advocacy can lead to improved healthcare experiences and outcomes.
To learn more about your patient rights, read our blog post Understanding the Patient Bill of Rights: Empowering Patients for Quality Healthcare.
Conclusion
Being a healthcare advocate for yourself and your loved ones is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. By educating yourself, building a support network, being prepared for appointments, understanding your health insurance, keeping detailed medical records, seeking second opinions, actively participating in treatment decisions, staying organized with medications, advocating for preventive care, and speaking up for your rights, you can navigate the healthcare system more effectively and ensure the best possible care.
Empower yourself and your loved ones by taking an active role in your healthcare journey today.
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