Introduction

Sometimes receiving the healthcare we need can seem more like a puzzle than anything else. We may realize that we need to see a specialist. That does not sound too difficult. But then we realize we need referrals in place from our PCP before we can make an appointment. Other times, we really are not feeling well at all and yet we still must wait days or even weeks to get in to see a physician. As a last resort when we are desperate we may go to the Emergency Room. That in itself can be a task. Patients often wait for hours to be seen and it takes hour more to be treated and discharged. This is why we must all learn some ways that we can work towards getting the most out of our healthcare.

Your Relationship with Your Doctor

In order for your doctor to best be able to help you, you must communicate well with him or her. Do not work against your doctor, but instead with your doctor to find the treatment options that are best for you. You need to find a physician whom you trust so that you can always be open and honest with them. In order for your doctor to be able to help you, he must know what is wrong.

The better able you are to describe your problems without feeling embarrassed or without leaving anything out, the more likely it is that your doctor will be able to help. Quite obviously, your doctor cannot even begin to help you, if he does not know what is wrong. Quite often people do not ask all the questions they may have or express all their concerns. Doctors do normally open up the lines of communications. They may explain their findings to your or any tests they are going to run.

After doing so, your doctor will often ask if you have any questions. Sometimes people say no even when they do. Again, the doctor cannot help you fully if you are not open with him. If you have any questions, by all means ask. It is your body and your health. Doctors will often ask you at an exam if you have any other concerns? Again, people often say no when they really do. Whether your concern is big or small, you should discuss it with your doctor. There are no stupid questions or concerns. It is always better to express your concerns so that the doctor can make sure there is nothing wrong. Whether you have had a sore foot or a persistent stomach ache, talk to your doctor so that he can make sure everything is ok.

Know Your Rights as a Patient

You have rights as a patient and therefore, it is important for you to know your rights. Each and every patient is entitled to quality medical care. As a patient you have the right to be told about any alternative treatments for your illness or injury. In the end the decision is yours whether or not to take the advice of your doctor. You can always refuse medical treatment if you so choose. No patient need to be left to suffer in pain without trying various treatments. You have a right to be told about any pain relief options available to you. Play an active role in making decisions about your pain treatment.

Be an Advocate for Your Own Health

You must be an advocate for your own good health. The doctors are there to help you. However, they are there to help many other patients as well. You do need to take some initiative for yourself. Ask your doctor what annual screenings you should have. Discuss your health history as well as your family history to learn more about your potential health risks. By staying on top of things you can often prevent an illness. Even when we cannot prevent something from happening, by having proper health care and preventative medicine, we can often catch a problem in time before it becomes too serious.

If your doctor tells you to come in for a yearly physical, do so. If he thinks you need a particular screening each year, make and keep your appointment. Go to every appointment well prepared. If you have any concerns with your health, be prepared to discuss those concerns with your physician. In addition, if you have any questions about treatment options or prescription medicine, be prepared to discuss this with your doctor as well. Sometimes it helps to write everything down so that you do not forget any important details.

If you are going in for your fist appointment with a new doctor, you will be asked many questions. The doctor will want to complete a medical and family history on you. Be prepared to answer all these questions. Also, be honest when the doctor asks you questions. For example, if you smoke be honest and tell your doctor that you do smoke and how much. The doctor needs to know as much as possible in order to keep you healthy. Ask for copies of any test results you may have. You will be able to look over the results and ask any questions you may have. Keep a list of any medications you have been prescribed.

If any serious side effects occur, contact your doctor right away. If you have side effects that are common with the medication, make not of that. When you go to your appointment take a list of any side effect you have with your medication. Your doctor may be able to adjust your dose or prescribe something new if you side effects are too bothersome.

Do Not be Timid About Your Own Healthcare

Do not be shy and timid when it comes to your healthcare. You need to stand up to yourself and make sure your doctor “hears” you. The doctor may very well know best, but then again, sometimes you know better. It is your body and your health. If your doctor suggests a treatment or medicine that just does not sound right for you. Let him know. There may be other alternative you can try. You always have the option of refusing a treatment or test if you would like. If you are worried about a particular treatment or test, talk to your doctor.

Tell your physician what your concerns are and what questions you have. Together you may be able to come up with a solution. When you are at your appointment, do not let the doctor do all the talking. They often have many patients to see in a short amount of time. This is not their fault typically, but it is not yours either. And you should not need to suffer the consequences. Stand up for yourself and make sure that your doctor addresses all your concerns and questions.

Do not be rushed and do not leave that room until you have your questions answered and your concerns addressed. Ultimately, you are in charge. Your doctor cannot help you with a matter that he knows nothing about. He cannot answer your questions if you do not ask. So by all means ask.

Healthcare Beyond the Hospital

Keep in mind that it is not just your doctors who keep you healthy. You need to do your part as well. Remember to make an appointment when you have a concern. Do not be afraid that you are annoying your doctor. If you do not feel well or think something just is not right, see your physician.

Keep all your appointments. Take our medicines as prescribed. Never just stop taking a medicine without consulting your doctor. Live a healthy life to stay as fit and healthy as possible. We cannot always prevent illness, but we can work towards improving our chances of not becoming sick. Try not to smoke. Do not drink in excess. Exercise a few times a week. Even if you just take a walk around the neighborhood.

Staying fit is good for your heart and your overall mental and physical health. Eat well! It is ok to indulge in high fat foods or junk food sometimes, but it should not be a habit. Remember to include fruits and vegetables in your diet. These tips will go a long way towards good health.