6 things to
do to be your own best health advocate
1. Request
copies of your file, especially lab tests & imagining reports. You are legally entitled to any and all files
kept on your behalf. Luckily, this is
getting easier with Electronic Medical Record keeping systems (EMRS). Many larger facilities now allow you to log
in online and obtain copies of all your tests and reports. Inquire as to whether yours is one of
them. If not, ask for a hard copy.
2. Read
the reports! It may all look like gibberish
to you, but with a little bit of searching on the internet, you should be able
to decipher what your report says. If
you cannot, specifically ask during the follow up by bringing your copy of the
report with you to your medical provider and asking them to translate for you.
3. Bring
a tape recorder, friend or spouse with you to your medical appointments. Appointments often seem too rushed to ask all
the questions you might like, and many people get flustered. Having a recorder or friend gives you a
backup.
4. Do a
little research on the companies that make your vitamins and supplements. What is their facility like? What quality of raw materials are they
using? Where do they get their
information to make the supplements they do?
The best supplement companies are also researchers—ask if the manufacturer
has a research division.
5. Seek
the opinion of an alternative medical professional. Alternative medicine
practitioners---Acupuncturists, Registered Herbalists, Naturopaths, and Chiropractors
may be your best source for explaining your condition or diagnosis to you, and
providing you with potential alternatives.
Keep in mind, a hammer always wants to hit a nail—so a surgeon will
always recommend surgery. If you don’t
like the treatment options given to you, use the time in between appointments
to seek out others. Bring the reports to
your appointment and ask them to look over them. These professions receive Western medical
training as well as training in their chosen field, so many have some good,
more easily digestible insight to your condition. The same goes for those
supplements you are taking! Vitamins go
through fads the same way fashion does.
You may or may not really need those supplements you’re taking,
including that multi-vitamin! Ask at
your next alternative care appointment if your supplements are still right for
you.
6.
Stay calm, educated, interested &
inspired. You are in control of your own
body & its future as long as you are willing to work with it in the now,
and continue to learn.
