According to Daivat Dholakia of Essenvia, “bring data, such as when you develop symptoms and what can trigger them.” Danielle Ripley-Burgess, a Kansas City-based advocate and chief storyteller at Fight Colorectal Cancer, recommends planning ahead and trying to acquire time slots early in the day. “Make a list of concerns and questions you want to be addressed at the meeting, and take notes during the meeting,” said Madeline Shonka, CEO of the Co-Immunity Foundation in Wichita, Kansas. Monty Ghosh, M.D. : Bring a list of your concerns, but prioritize them. Rajinder Chahal, M.D. : Treat telehealth appointments as if they were in-person appointments. “The best approach to advocate for yourself or a loved one is to ask questions,” says Janet Gould.
“A partner can assist track minor details that can make a significant difference in care,” says Karen Curtiss, founder of the Care Partner Project. “As an empowered patient, you must carefully check them for errors,” Mary Shomon says. “For decades, the connection between provider and patient has been largely paternal,” says Ron Shinkman. Chelsey Gomez (Chelsey Gomez): It’s perfectly OK to seek a second opinion. You should have no qualms about doing so.
“Form a genuine friendly relationship with your care provider,” said Ashley Johnson, founder of Loyal Hands, a group of death doulas who provide assistance to people nearing the end of their lives. “Your clinician cannot read your mind,” says Jill Dehlin, a board member of the National Headache Foundation. “You are the project manager of your own health journey,” says Dr. Ben Aiken. “While doctors are specialists in medicine, you are an expert on yourself,” Marianne Sarcich says.
