You are in Control of Your Health

I am amazed by how many people do not know that they are totally in control of their health. I mean, once upon a time, there was a culture of the doctor recommending something and people usually blindly following. That culture has died long ago. There is technology, patient bill of rights (usually in that stash of paper you're handed at visits to the doctor or hospital), just the whole customer service effect that has taken over health care. 

You always have the power to choose how you want to manage your health after you have been informed of your options. See, you have the right to be an informed decision maker. Ask questions for clarification. State your preferences. LISTEN. You may miss some important information or the answer to your question if you aren't listening. Make sure your provider is listening. Ask what is the goal of treatment? Make sure you and your provider are on the same page. You also have the power to change providers. You should feel comfortable enough to discuss that you are not happy with the care. We providers need to hear these things to make the necessary changes to better care for patients. 

You choose the direction of your health. You are in control. You decide after receiving information how you want to guide your health. 

Your friendly PA, RN, friend, advocate