With 2007 just a few days away, it’s time for a few resolutions to start the year right.
Resolution #1: Develop partnerships with your providers
No matter what medical problems confront you, you’ll have a better chance of weathering them if you work in partnership with your doctors and other providers.
Ask plenty of questions. Review and research information provided to you. Ask for definitions of difficult words. Speak up when you need better explanations.
Medical decision making is your responsibility, and your physician should be your primary resource for options. Collaborate with providers to arrive at the best decisions for yourself.
Resolution #2: Be smart about drug prescriptions
According to the Institute of Medicine, more than 1.5 million Americans are harmed by a prescription drug each year. There are several causes. There may be a problem with the drug itself, the wrong drug or the wrong dosage may be prescribed, or the prescription may not be filled correctly. Some problems stem from non-compliance, meaning, the patient fails to follow instructions.
Take responsibility for your prescription drugs. Make sure your doctor prescribes the right drug, in the right dosage, with the right instructions for taking it. Be familiar with side effects, and which ones should flag a call for help. Ask questions of your doctor, then corroborate his orders with your pharmacist. Be sure to take the drug in the right dosage at precisely the right time, while avoiding foods, beverages or activities that may interfere with the drug’s ability to help you.
Resolution #3: Find an advocate before you need one
Rarely are any of us prepared for a difficult diagnosis. Finding an advocate in advance can make it easier to handle the news and activities which follow.
The best person to ask is someone who works in healthcare – a doctor, nurse, therapist – someone with some medical training, even if they are retired. Family members aren’t your best choice – it’s difficult for someone who loves you to be objective. Find someone who is organized, available, and who can command respect from those who will participate in your care including doctors, hospitals, testing sites and insurance companies.
Sharp patients will embrace all three resolutions in the New Year, and as a result, they’ll enjoy the best medical outcomes.
I wish you good health and a dose of patient empowerment for 2007 and years to come.
