It almost brings tears when I think about how unfair it is that people go into their medical appointments with dread and angst for not truly feeling heard. Sadly, it’s not an uncommon experience. Often medical staff lack the time or emotional capacity to support their patients the way they truly crave. I truly believe most healthcare providers want to do a good job but there are too many barriers in the current system. There are, however, steps that you can take so that you walk away from your appointment feeling truly heard and understood.
In this article, we’re going to explore how to be a fearless advocate and make your appointments feel like you’re in charge of a what may feel like a superhero mission!
Don Your Advocacy Cape
Picture yourself as the superhero of your (or your family member’s) health journey. Wearing your imaginary cape can boost your confidence and remind you that you’re here to conquer your health appointments. Superhero cape not working for you, think of steel armor, or whatever it takes to get your needs met.
Prepare Your Superhero Toolkit
Every superhero needs a toolkit. Yours should include a notepad, a list of questions, and a dash of patience. Prior to your appointment write down everything you want to discuss, from symptoms to treatment options. Your toolkit will keep you organized and ready for action. Keep in mind, sadly, that time is always limited so be as succinct as possible. This template may be helpful:
· My goal: example – pain relief· My barriers: example – pain medicine makes me feel sleepy· What can be done to meet my goal? Is a different medication or a different class of medicine an option?· Still not feeling heard?: – I feel like I’m not being heard because………
· Can we summarize the plan together? Write this down in your own words.
Embrace Your Inner Sherlock
You are your health’s detective, so don’t be afraid to investigate. Ask questions, dig deep, and be curious. Your curiosity might uncover important details that make all the difference. Speak confidently and assertively. You deserve to be heard and understood, so don’t hold back when expressing your concerns, questions, or desires for your care.
Bring Your Sidekick
Even Batman has Robin, and you don’t have to go it alone either. Everyone has that friend or acquaintance that you sometimes prefer to avoid. Maybe this is the time to have them act on your behalf. Think of the old analogy good cop-bad cop. I’m not sure that is PC anymore but you get the idea. Tell your sidekick what your goals and worries are so they know where to help when the time comes.A support person and second set of ears is invaluable. You are attempting to take in a massive amount of information regarding your condition and treatment options, having another person to help digest all of that information is incredibly helpful. I can’t emphasize this enough, those who have support invariably have better outcomes.
Face the Villain (Miscommunication) Head-On
In your health journey, miscommunication can be the arch-nemesis. Don’t let it sabotage your appointments. Ask for clarification, take notes, and ensure you and the healthcare team are on the same page.
Seek a Second Opinion
When in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. Just like in the world of superheroes, different perspectives can lead to innovative solutions. Your health is worth exploring all available options.
Stay Cool Under Pressure
Superheroes stay cool, even in the heat of battle. During your appointments, keep your emotions in check. Being polite and respectful can go a long way in building a productive relationship with your healthcare team. Feel yourself ramping up? Explain why – “I am starting to feel worried that my symptom is not being addressed.” The phrase “I feel…” is incredibly powerful and enables the person you are working with to not take the comment as any kind of attack or shortcoming.
Advocating for yourself or a family member in hospital appointments, especially when facing a terminal illness, is no easy feat. But with the right mindset, preparation, and a touch of fun, you can become the superhero of your health journey. Don’t let anyone walk over your concerns or dismiss your needs. You have the power to be heard and understood, take ownership of that. So, put on your advocacy cape, grab your superhero toolkit, and tackle those appointments with confidence. Your health is worth it, and you’re the hero it needs!
