When it comes to staying healthy or managing a medical diagnosis, no one is more important on your healthcare team than you. From keeping track of appointments and knowing when you need screenings to researching potential treatments and asking about medication side effects, you are your own greatest advocate. When you take charge of your health and act as a “general contractor” to manage all of the moving parts of your healthcare journey, it’s more likely that nothing will fall through the cracks.
Here are 7 tips to help you manage your health care more effectively:
- Document your health history. Keep track of your health information even though doctors have it on file. This is especially helpful when you see multiple doctors because you’ll have all of your health information in one place. It also makes it more likely that you’ll know when you need screenings, have had a particular test done or already discussed a treatment option.
- Do your research. Although turning to Dr. Google can often send your head spinning when you have a medical issue, it helps to be a well-informed consumer. If you are having a health concern, do your research so you can show up to your appointment with relevant questions and will be better prepared for what to expect.
- Write out questions and concerns. Even when you think you know what you want to discuss at the doctor, it can be overwhelming once you get there. So go to your appointment with a list of questions or talking points that you’ve written down on paper or your phone so you don’t forget what you want to discuss.
- Keep track of what you need to do. You can’t always rely on doctors to remind you when it’s time for screenings or appointments, especially if you don’t go to the doctor regularly. To make sure nothing falls through the cracks, make a list of tests, appointments or medical refills you need, along with timeframes so you don’t forget when to get them done.
- Request backup support. If you find it hard to keep track of what you need to do, can’t manage your medications effectively or have difficulty understanding what is discussed at the doctor, ask a family member or friend to help. Having someone with you to decipher and remember complex medical information for you helps keep you healthier.
- Be your own advocate. It’s important to speak up when you have questions, concerns or opinions about your healthcare. You don’t need to accept everything a doctor says at face value if you don’t agree with it – speak up when you feel it’s necessary. You may also need to push for specific testing, medications or treatment or work with your insurance provider to get approval.
- Rely on prevention. The best way to stay healthier is to not get sick in the first place. Take steps to follow healthy lifestyle habits so you’re less likely to need medical care. From following a healthy diet and exercising regularly to getting enough sleep, reducing stress, not smoking and limiting alcohol, you are the most influential person in keeping your body as healthy as possible.