Becoming Your Own Patient Advocate

If you've ever left your doctor's office wishing you'd asked more questions about your diagnosis and what happens next, you're not alone.

As medical care has become more complex, sometimes scheduling an appointment, meeting with your doctor and understanding the care and treatment can be daunting. Factor in an unexpectedly serious diagnosis, and the situation can be overwhelming.

Some of us remember the old-fashioned family doctor who made house calls and was available after hours through a simple phone call. Granted, health care has changed. Physician offices have joined big health systems and advances in medicine have created an entirely new vocabulary of sophisticated terminology. Still, that doesn't mean doctors have become less caring.

It does, however, require patients to advocate on their own behalf.

As a physician at MUSC Health Primary Care, I encourage patients to speak up and ask questions and become their own advocate for their health care. After all, there's no such thing as a dumb question when discussing your health. For example, don't assume everything is normal if you don't hear results of a test. If you're unable to obtain an ordered test, let your doctor know, and avoid phrases such as, "I'll do whatever you tell me doc."

Moreover, an open and honest conversation between doctor and patient builds trust, which is the very cornerstone for a healthy patient-doctor relationship. It also increases understanding of a patient's physical and emotional needs and goals.

Advocating for yourself is a key to getting the care and information you need to make informed decisions about your health, but becoming your own advocate requires thoughtful preparation, including self-education on your condition, whether it's a common virus or a more serious diagnosis; an ability and willingness to solve problems, and clear communication and negotiation skills so your doctor and care team can meet your needs.

• Take notes.
• Ask questions and ask your doctor for educational resources on your diagnosis. Do your homework and read about your condition. The internet can be a source of good information as well as misleading and wrong information, so clarify with your doctor all points you might have read.
• Bring an updated list of all prescription and over-the-counter medications you're taking.
• Be open and honest about your health habits, from alcohol consumption, diet, exercise, prior drug use and prior illnesses.

• Take advantage of health care's patient-centered philosophy to seek information from nurses, navigators or nurse practitioners who are a part of your care team.
• Reach out for help from a trusted friend or a family member to help organize care. If this isn't possible, ask your medical team to recommend outside organizations that can help.
• Accessibility is important: Have a cell phone and utilize email or patient portals, which can help with overall care.
• Know what your goals are and make sure your doctor and care team know.
• Never feel guilty about taking up your doctor's time. If you need a lengthy consultation, call ahead and request additional time on your doctor's schedule or schedule a short-term follow-up appointment.
• Know your rights as a patient. MUSC Health provides Patient Rights and Responsibilities information to each inpatient, outpatient, and/or family, patient spokesperson or legal guardian.

As a physician, I appreciate well prepared patients who ask questions and want to partner with me in their care. I rely on the information they provide and answer their questions directly. Patients who feel informed and empowered are likely to adhere to a treatment plan and achieve a better outcome. After all, no one knows your body better than you.