Seeking medical care can be a daunting experience for many people. Whether it's due to fear of the unknown, anxiety about the outcome, or concerns about the cost, it's common to feel hesitant about going to the doctor. Many patients have also had unpleasant experiences in the medical system and avoid seeking care. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and poor outcomes for the patient. A patient I encountered in the emergency room had a huge breast mass, which was visible through her clothing. She had delayed seeking medical care as she was scared, but her symptoms became so severe it finally prompted her to seek care. Unfortunately, she was quickly diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. It's heartbreaking to witness patients who delay seeking care despite clear indicators of serious health issues.
Being an empowered patient means taking control of your healthcare and ensuring you receive the care you deserve. Here are some tips to help you overcome your fears and become an advocate for your well-being.
1. Educate Yourself
One of the best ways to feel empowered as a patient is to educate yourself about your health condition or symptoms. Take the time to research and understand your symptoms, possible causes, and treatment options. This will not only help you make informed decisions but also enable you to communicate effectively with your healthcare provider.
2. Advocate For Yourself
Feel empowered to advocate for yourself by asking questions and expressing your concerns to healthcare providers. Write down questions before appointments. This can help ensure that important topics are addressed. I’ve observed that patients can be afraid of “disappointing” their provider and don’t want to share how things are going or, for example, that they stopped a medication. Providers are here to help and can do that if they have the whole picture. Ask for clarification, express your worries, or request a different approach if necessary. Remember that you have the right to participate in your healthcare journey actively.
3. Understand Your Health Insurance
Financial concerns can often deter people from seeking medical care. Take the time to understand your insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses you may have. Research different healthcare providers and facilities to find options that align with your budget. Resources are available to help you navigate the financial aspects of healthcare, so please don't hesitate to reach out if you need help.
4. Find a Medical Home and Trusted Provider
Here are some qualities to look for in a medical provider and clinic:
Board Certification: Patients should seek board-certified providers with the necessary credentials. These are often stated on the clinic or hospital’s website. Suppose you are seeking non-elective or elective procedures. In that case, you have every right to ask about their surgical results, such as infection or complication rates, or before and after examples (if plastic surgery, for example).
Practice Evidence-Based Medicine: In the medical field, evidence-based care is the safest and best way to provide quality patient care. Look for providers whose practice is supported by scientific research. You should feel comfortable with the basis on which they are offering treatment. There are very high-quality research studies that provide clear guidelines for medical treatment.
Bedside Manner: You should feel comfortable with your providers and have a good rapport. They should listen actively, respect patient concerns, and provide non-judgmental support. In addition, your provider should foster open communication and collaborative decision-making with their patients. Do you feel heard and understood? Do you feel comfortable asking questions? You do not need to feel judged, rushed, or shamed by a medical provider. If asking questions annoys them, maybe they are not the right provider for you. Expect clear, non-judgmental, and supportive care. You get to decide what works best for you, and hopefully, you can find a suitable partner on that journey.
Practice Model: As a patient, you can ask about the practice's appointment scheduling, telemedicine options, and accessibility. Some clinics are shifting their models to allow providers more time with patients. An appointment time slot of 30 minutes with your provider is a good starting point. Some clinics now offer 24-hour access to telemedicine providers who work directly with your core provider in a team-based approach. Some have a small membership fee while still accepting insurance to defray some of these costs and provide more services.
It's important to educate yourself, ask questions, advocate for yourself, and understand your insurance coverage to overcome your fears and actively participate in your well-being. Remember that you have every right to be heard and receive quality care. Don't let fear prevent you from seeking the medical attention you need.