Self-Advocacy: The Key to Achieving the Best Health Care

As a long-time user of the health system, I have learned one very valuable lesson in getting the best health care for myself. That lesson? The key to achieving the best health care is to become your own advocate.

Too many people leave the responsibility for their health to the guy sitting with the stethoscope in his pocket across the desk. Too many people come out of their doctor’s consulting rooms with their questions unposed, their uncertainties unaddressed, their doubts and fears kept silent.

While we may not literally hand over a wad of cash each time we say hello to our doctor’s receptionist and let her know we’re here for our 3:30 check up, we are paying for the service. We should also remind ourselves of this each time we greet our doctor, get our blood pressure checked, our eyes examined or a new prescription written out. By doing so, we will feel justified in asking the questions we should be asking: What are the side effects of this drug? Why aren’t you prescribing another drug instead? What options do I have in regards to treatment of this problem? What if your Plan A treatment doesn’t work? Do you have a Plan B? A Plan C? A Plan Z?

Even for those of us who normally have a lot of self-confidence and self-esteem, when the doctor shuts that door and asks us what the problem is, we freeze. When the doctor gives us his opinion about what the problem is, for instance diagnosing it as problem ABC, for some reason we don’t dare suggest that it could be problem XYZ instead. Often after we’ve left the office we’ll groan, “Why didn’t I ask this?” or “Why did I forget to ask that?”

So, for those with upcoming doctor’s appointments, keep the following in mind. If you don’t ask the right questions and take initiative in addressing your health care needs, you’ll soon be back in the waiting room with your problem unsolved. This is not meant to criticize doctors – as they see numerous patients each day, and there’s only so much they can do. After all, it’s not their life… it’s yours. No one is going to take more interest or care in your life than you.

During your next appointment, practice the following self-advocacy skills:

Remember, often in medicine there is usually more than one way to test for, or treat, something. You have a choice. Nothing can be done to your body without your permission. You are ultimately responsible for what happens to it. Be your own health-advocate – it will make you feel a whole lot better.

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About the Author Sonya Nikadie is the author of several books and works as a freelance writer and editor on topics including medicine, psychology, cookery, travel, the environment and nature.

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