7 Proven Ways Patients Can Practice Self-Advocacy
These 7 tips can empower you at the doctor’s office and boost your confidence as you navigate your health. Practice self-advocacy. Make your voice heard.
Patients often feel overwhelmed by the information they receive at the doctor’s office. Complicated medical jargon, an unexpected diagnosis and an unfamiliar environment can add confusion to your appointment. However, during such moments of doubt, it is critical to practice self-advocacy, which involves speaking up for yourself, acting in your best interests, and making informed decisions that you are comfortable with. Here are a few tips on how to advocate for yourself at the doctor’s office!
1. Be proactive.
Being proactive can help you feel more confident during your appointment. For instance, preparing for your appointment in advance and arriving early to your visit can help you feel in control. By the time you see the doctor, you will know exactly what your goals are for that visit, and have your paperwork completed.
2. Ask questions!
Do not be afraid to ask your doctor questions! If you have any confusion about a certain treatment or diagnosis, always ask for clarification. Your doctor might not know that you need help understanding a situation unless you voice these needs.
3. Take notes.
It can be worthwhile to keep all your medical notes in one place. Patients often find it helpful to write down instructions or information that their care team shares. If you can’t recall what was said in an appointment, you can always refer back to your notes!
4. Ask a friend or family member to accompany you to appointments.
Having a friend or family member with you during the appointment can help boost your confidence. They are an excellent support system to lean on during stressful doctor visits.
5. Ask for a second opinion/seek a new provider.
If you believe you were misdiagnosed, are not receiving adequate care, or that you are not building a compatible physician-patient relationship with your doctor, you always have the option to switch healthcare providers. You can ask your current doctor to refer you to one of their colleagues, or find one on your own. Just be honest with your doctor, and do what you feel is right for your situation!
6. Practice makes perfect.
Sometimes, self-advocacy may seem awkward or difficult. However, the more you use your own voice, the more comfortable you will feel doing it in the future. Keep trying until it becomes second nature.
7. Work with a professional patient advocate.
Many hospitals offer professional patient advocates as an adjunct service. A patient advocate can help you prepare for your appointment, find valuable resources, understand your medical situation, and provide further education on your disease. Some professional patient advocates are volunteers, while others need to be independently hired.
Top Questions for Your Doctor
Access our list of the most important questions to ask your physician at your next appointment.
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