Your physician and other health professionals are there for you because they have a calling to help you improve your health or to help you continue to live a healthy life.
We all realize time and resources are scarce for physicians and nurses and at the same time we are often overwhelmed and feel rushed when we visit the doctors office.
It doesnt matter if you are a seasoned health professional, it is still intimidating, especially if the news is likely to be other than positive. There are few things more frightening than thinking or hearing your health could be in jeopardy.
There are a few things you can do to feel more in control and make the most of your conversations.
Prepare before you make a call. Have in mind, or better yet write down the situation, the background, your primary concern and your request. Briefly describe the situation, provide some background on the pattern of your symptoms and share your area of concern. Request help.
Take notes before you step into the office. Bring along a list of concerns and questions. If you are having symptoms, keep a record of symptoms before you visit.
Record when symptoms happen, where and activities occurring before and after symptoms. Record what eases the symptoms and what worsens them.
Write down all the medications prescribed to you by a health professional. If a medication didnt agree with you or wasnt effective, record it. Include on your list the over-the-counter medications.
Take notes during your visit. Ask for clarification for words and phrases you dont understand. Ask for the spelling of medications, treatments or conditions so you can take charge and investigate. You may find it helpful to bring along someone to take notes for you. If time runs out for your visit, book another visit.
Remember to ask the questions. The more you understand, the more you can take control of your health. After all, your health is your life.
For free downloads of Medication Profiles and Symptom Log, visit onetoonehomehealth.ca and go to Health Resources- Care Tools.
Correction: There was an error in the Jan. 13 article. Stacey Mohl was a registered massage therapist who owned Steveston Massage Therapy and Health Center. Rest in peace dear friend.
Jan Gazley RN, BScN is a nurse with over 24 years of experience including caring for people with dementia. She owns and operates One to One Home Health, helping you advocate for your health and providing care management. Contact Jan at onetoonehomehealth.ca or 604-786-6165.
