How to Take Control of Your Healthcare
By Megan Adams, LMSW, First Texas Home Health, Texoma LIVING WELL Magazine
When faced with healthcare concerns, symptoms that affect your day-to-day life, or overwhelming diagnoses, patients often are left feeling powerless. As a home health social worker, I often help patients take control of their situation by partializing their problems so they are less overwhelming. As the government is working to drive down medical expenses and enhance patient responsibility, we are facing many changes. It is important to regain control of our own physical and mental well-being amidst the whirlwind of information we receive from our healthcare providers, friends, and the media. The following tips for taking ownership of your health and healthcare will make that easier.
Take control of your doctor’s appointments
Physicians are extremely busy and, unfortunately, often have a limited amount of time to spend with each individual patient. Make the most of your time with your physician. Keep a journal or make a list of symptoms, medication side effects, or
the most important questions you want addressed. Be open with your physician about any changes in your physical well-being or in your environment. Never leave the appointment wishing you had brought up that recurring headache or asked about that new medication you saw advertised.
Understand your diagnosis
As you age you might find your list of diagnoses and medications is growing. Make a point to understand each item on that list and know what signs and symptoms you should notify your healthcare provider about. For example, if you have been diagnosed with congestive heart failure and you notice weight gain, increased edema (swelling), or shortness of breath, you should alert your healthcare provider and determine what steps you may take to prevent a further exacerbation of symptoms. Also, find out if there is a support group or educational group offered in your area to help you understand your situation.
Be involved in your plan of care
Do not stop asking questions after you have identified the problem; ask questions about the necessary treatment. What medications could provide relief? Might various forms of therapy (physical, occupational, speech, counseling, etc.) be helpful? Are there any diet, exercise, or lifestyle adjustments that might improve or decrease symptomology? And most importantly, when can you expect to feel better? Tell your physician or healthcare provider what you need from them and what treatment methods you prefer.
Know your options
In regards to your healthcare, you might forget to view yourself as an empowered consumer. You should speak up when you feel confused or ignored. Demand the treatment you are paying for. Ask about your options. Is there a cheaper version of this medication to help you save money? Does your physician have samples of the medication she/he is prescribing? Is there a homeopathic option? Could you pursue therapy first rather than jump into surgery? And if you do not get the answers you need, you always have the option to seek a second opinion. According to a Gallup Poll in 2010, only 29% of Americans saw it necessary to research their physician’s recommendations. This percentage decreased in Americans 65 or older, a slim 15% of older adults pursued research or a second opinion. As consumers, it is your job to make sure you are getting the best services. There are also ways to save money if you research your medications. Find out if there is a cheaper option that provides similar results. Look to see if the manufacturer offers coupons or assistance programs (you can do this by looking online or calling the manufacturer’s toll free number).
Ask for help
There are many medical professionals out there who would be happy to help you feel empowered and take control of your health. Utilize the healthcare professionals in your life. If you are in the hospital, utilizing home health or hospice, or going to an outpatient wound care or dialysis clinic, there is a social worker that could help you. The more open and vocal you are about your concerns and/or needs, the more able they will be to provide assistance. It is time for you to feel confident about your health. Hopefully these tips will help you foster that empowerment and responsibility.
Megan Adams, LMSW serves as the director of social work for First Texas Home Health. First Texas services 12 North Texas counties. Megan is willing and excited to help you take control of your healthcare. If you have any questions about something mentioned in this article, send her an email at megannicoleadams@gmail.com. You may also visit www.first-texas.com.