WELLNESS CONNECTION · Medical

Partnering with Your Doctor

By Siobh�n M. Palmer, R.N., Chief Operating Officer

September 06, 2011 - 5:00PM

Most of us have been in a situation where we have found some aspect of our healthcare frustrating; whether it�s payments, insurance, perceived quality of care or time with our doctors, healthcare has the potential to be a tense experience. Unfortunately, this can lead some of us to avoid the doctor altogether, and this is not a wise choice. 5.7 million people in the US have undiagnosed diabetes and 57 million are at increased risk, and with all probability, completely unaware. This is undoubtedly affecting you or someone that you know or love so being proactive with your health care matters.

Did you know that when breast cancer is confined to the breast, the 5 year survival rate is close to 100%? Or that since the PSA test became widely used in the 1990�s, the rate of death due to prostate cancer has dropped 40%? Your relationship with your physician, and the ongoing tracking of your personal health, is of paramount importance to your long-term health.

So, if finding a physician and maintaining that relationship seems daunting, let�s look at a few key ways to override that fear.
� Select a physician and medical center that are right for you. Get referrals from trusted sources, check state medical board records, know at which hospitals your physician has privileges.
� Partner with your doctor by maintaining a health care folder with the following information: medical and surgical history including lab reports, allergies to medications/food/environmental factors, a list of current medications, and your family history.
� When seeing your physician, remember the following: arrive on time, prioritize your concerns and have any recent updates written down.
� Ask for clarification about medications, prescribed tests or procedures so that you feel comfortable about what your next steps are.
� Where appropriate, try to schedule follow-up appointments before you leave the office, and if needed, allow time for insurance pre-authorizations.

Most importantly, don�t let things slide. This is your body and your longevity � it�s worth the time, effort and care to ensure that you feel great and get the most out of life!

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