Become Your Own Health Advocate With This Helpful Guide
Being an advocate for your own health means taking control of all things related to your well-being, whether it’s finding the motivation to get active or learning how to make the most of a doctor’s appointment. Keeping up with your medical records, getting familiar with your health insurance policy are just a few examples of how you can take charge where your wellness is concerned so you’ll have peace of mind.
Read on for a few tips on how to make sure you’re advocating for your health and wellness:
1. Keep track of your medical documents
If you are living with a chronic condition or disability, you probably face multiple doctor appointments throughout the year, and the sheer amount of information and paperwork that is required can be overwhelming. Even if you only see the doctor once a year for a checkup, it’s still a good idea to get organized where your medical paperwork is concerned. Updating and submitting forms in a timely manner will allow you to get a fast appointment, and you can make copies of those forms for your own records or for specialists.
2. Get proactive with your physical health
No matter how often you need to see the doctor, it’s important to keep up with your own physical health throughout the year. While it can be difficult to work in an activity when you have a busy schedule,it’s important to remain proactive and find ways to get moving that don’t interfere with your routine, especially if you work at a sedentary job.
You might go outdoors on your lunch break or play a game of catch with the kids after dinner. If you live in a walkable neighborhood, take a brisk walk each day. Have 15 minutes to spare in the morning? Healthline suggests trying some yoga poses to wake up and stretch your muscles for the day. You don’t have to hit the gym every time you want a workout; simply work in some activity when you can.
3. Do your own research
Taking steps to remain healthy and active is important, but issues will still pop up from time to time that require your attention. Before making an appointment with the doctor, do a little research to learn more about what could be going on with your health. This is a good way to prepare for your appointment because it allows you to think of questions you want to ask as well as to give the doctor a better idea of how to treat the problem. Just keep in mind as you do your research that it’s important to look at reputable sites for information.
4. Be as detailed as possible
Doing some research can help give you a better idea of the kind of issue you may be dealing with, as well as potential medicines or treatments, but it’s also important to understand how to convey any concerns to your doctor. Being as detailed as possible when talking about your health can help healthcare professionals have a better understanding of what’s going on, as can giving feedback and asking your own questions.
Taking control over your own health and becoming an advocate for better wellness is an important step, and by using tools to organise your medical documents, you can stay on top of every doctor visit while ensuring that your medical history is in one safe place. This can also help your loved ones stay in the loop, especially if you’re living with an illness and need help or support.