YOU are in charge of your own health! It is important that you speak up, advocate for yourself and your needs. Here are some ways to do a better job of self-advocacy.
- Think of your healthcare provider’s role as an educator. They are responsible for providing information for you and making suggestions about actions you could take to achieve your goals. You DO have clear goals about your health, don’t you?
- Healthcare providers have limited time. Prioritize your goals and concerns. You may only have time to deal with your top two or three at any appointment.
- Share your values. Are you a bold risk-taker, or more conservative in your thoughts about potential treatments? This information will help your healthcare provider offer the most pertinent information.
- Be prepared to ask questions. You already know some of the questions you want to ask Write them down so you won’t forget to ask them. If the nurse or doctor says something you don’t understand, ask! It is not impolite to ask them to write down words you don’t know how to spell, so you can look up more information after you get home.
- Ask a family member or close friend to accompany you to the appointment. Their main role is to take notes on what the healthcare professional tells you. With your permission, they may be able to provide additional information about your health status to the nurse or doctor.
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