Seven Ways To Be Your Own Best Health Advocate Today
As life gets busier and busier, we must take the time to be advocates for our own health. We all have health concerns so having an understanding of how to navigate healthcare systems and what resources are available can make a big difference in our overall well-being.
Here are some time-tested tips that can help you be a better advocate for your own health, courtesy of Samantha O'Connor PA-C.
1. Find the Right Healthcare Professionals
It’s important to find the right healthcare professionals regardless of whether you need a general practitioner or a specialist.¹ Ask friends and family for recommendations, read online reviews, and look into insurance coverage at different locations when making your decision.
Doctor On Demand notes that being comfortable with your healthcare provider can make a huge difference in your visits and treatment plan.²
2. Educate Yourself on Any Conditions You May Have
If you have any pre-existing conditions or illnesses, research them and become as knowledgeable as possible. Being educated on your condition can help you better understand it, monitor it more closely, and make informed decisions regarding your course of treatment.
This will help you better understand your condition, which treatments may work best for you, and what lifestyle changes may need to be made to manage it properly.
3. Ask Questions
When visiting doctors or other healthcare professionals, don’t hesitate to ask questions about any information that doesn’t feel clear to you. It’s also essential to ask about potential side effects from medications before taking them, especially if you have allergies or existing medical conditions that could be affected by them.
Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask questions about payment plans if necessary - many providers offer payment plans if needed.
4. Take Notes
When visiting medical experts, it’s smart to bring a writing instrument with you, whether that’s a traditional pen and paper or a digital device. Triage Cancer points out that doing so ensures everything discussed during the appointment remains securely recorded in your notes for future reference if needed.³
This will provide reassurance that no details were left out due to the limited time appointments often provide.
5. Opt for Healthier Choices
Taking control of your health requires dedication and effort, but just two actions can do a lot to make significant improvements. Drinking plenty of water flushes out toxins from the body, and eating nutritious snacks provides steady energy levels without the dreaded sugar crash. Making wise decisions in these areas daily will ultimately result in improved physical and mental well-being.
Incorporating physical activity into our daily routine is crucial for maintaining our health and well-being. Finding ways to exercise throughout the day can be challenging, but it's essential to have a plan in place. One way to stay active without dedicating a lot of time to exercise is to take the stairs instead of the elevator at work.
Similarly, going for a walk during lunch can not only boost our energy levels but also help us burn some extra calories. This is made much more convenient if you’re in an area with an optimal Walk Score (70 and above), which measures the walkability of any given neighborhood in the country. You can calculate your neighborhood’s Walk Score at the link below.
6. Reach Out To Family and Friends For Support
Taking care of one's mental well-being doesn't just benefit us in the present, but it can also help pave a brighter future. When times get tough, turn to those close and dear who understand your struggles.
Carry out meaningful conversations with them to reduce stress levels and gain new perspectives on life matters.⁴
7. Improve Your Home's Health
Home health is an important part of ensuring that your family has a safe and comfortable living environment. One way to do this is through deep cleaning the home, which can help to remove dust, dirt, and other allergens. Additionally, adding air-purifying plants such as peace lilies or spider plants can help to filter toxins from the air and make it easier for everyone in the home to breathe comfortably. Doing both of these things regularly can go a long way in improving your home's health.
Taking charge of your health is empowering and something everyone should strive towards no matter their age or stage in life!⁵
Taking these simple steps such as finding the right healthcare professionals, educating yourself, asking questions, taking notes, choosing healthier options, reaching out to your support system, and improving your home health will go a long way in managing one’s well-being now and into future years ahead.
References:
1. Choosing a Doctor: Quick Tips – (health.gov)
2. Why You Should Build a Relationship With Your Doctor – (doctorondemand.com)
3. The Importance of Taking Notes at Medical Appointments – (triagecancer.org)
4. Why Talking Helps – (reachout.com)
5. Why Take Charge? – (umn.edu)