Taking Care Of Your Healthcare.

My Dad recently underwent a fight against cancer.  (He'd kill me if he knew I was writing about it!)  I had the opportunity to go with him on a few treatment and office visits.  Dad had questions and concerns but never voiced them.  Instead, he grumbled to me and my Sister.

When our car needs repair, we ask questions and many ask for the old parts from the mechanic.  Yet when it comes to our bodies we don't question our doctors.  We are literally handing them our lives! It's time to treat your body like your car.

That leads me to these pieces of advice:

1. Remember that your Doctor is serving you.  You call the shots!

2. If you have a question, speak up and don't quit until you get an answer.

3. You know your body better than anyone else, if you feel something is wrong, say so.
An example: Your Doctor prescribes a new medicine. You take it and you feel funny.  Do you keep taking it and think "my Doctor wouldn't give me anything I shouldn't have"? No! Research the side effects and call your Doctor immediately. If they say you'll get a call back, call back if they don't.

4. If you feel a certain test is warranted or bloodwork done, tell the Doctor to order it. Period.

5. Listen to what your Doctor and request everything in writing for your records.

6. Always ask for treatment options.

7. Always get a second opinion for major issues.  If you feel this area doesn't have a specialist that can handle your problem, go where they do.  I tend to head to Philadelphia and it has saved my voice and my Husband's life.

8. Once you get a clear treatment plan and you are satisfied, follow it.  Many people tend to be lax on this point.

9. If you have more than one Doctor, keep them all informed with all medical decisions.

My Doctors may think I am a bitch, but I get answers and treatment that I am satisfied with! And my Dad; no tumor.

Questions or comments?  Leave them below.