Top Ten Tips - Dealing With A Medical Diagnosis
By Tip Diva | Mar 21, 2008
Categories: Books, Difficulty, Doctor, Family, Files, Friends, Health, Illness, Insurance, Internet, Medical, Medicine, Papers, Safety, Sickness, Tips, Web, Web Search
Getting any medical diagnosis, regardless of the seriousness, can be a frightening experience. Unfortunately, you can’t change the diagnosis, but you can take charge, and here’s how:
- Get A Second Opinion - If it’s an especially serious diagnosis and you have both the time and resources, get a second opinion. Especially do so if you weren’t comfortable with the first doctor.
- Ask Questions - Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor anything in regards to your diagnosis. If you are having problems getting answers or help from him, consider switching doctors. You have a right to know what’s going on with your body.
- Have A Second Ear - Bring someone else with you to your appointments to hear what the doctor has to say. You may miss an important bit of information, or you may be nervous or upset, which can skew what you hear.
- Examine All Of Your Options - When you get a diagnosis, don’t just settle on the first treatment your doctor tells you about. Ask if there are any alternative therapies or treatments you can also look into before making a final decision.
- Carry A Binder Or Notebook - Write down all important information, such as what your symptoms are, your treatment options, what medication you need to be taking and when your appointments are. Also carry copies of your insurance card and all essential paperwork.
- Do Your Research - Search online, join support groups and read medical literature to find out more about your condition. Jot down questions in your notebook for the next time you see your doctor.
- Follow Treatment Exactly - No shortcuts allowed here. Make sure you follow your doctor’s treatments exactly, including medications, exercises and tests. If something is not making you feel right or you can’t follow the treatment, speak to your doctor immediately.
- Stay Organized - Make sure you are taking the correct medications at the correct times and the correct dosages; that you’re getting all the required tests at scheduled appointments; and that you’re not missing any follow-up appointment. Messing up any of these can affect the course of your treatment, so stay on top of things. Enlist the help of someone else if you can’t do this on your own.
- Make Sure Someone Else Knows Your Treatment - Have a spouse, family member, friend or caretaker know the ins-and-outs of your diagnosis and treatment in case anything happens and you’re not able to communicate your needs.
- Have All Essential Phone Numbers And Emergency Card Handy - Make sure you have essential numbers, including all doctors, your local hospital, pharmacist and immediate family members or caregivers handy. Carry the most important contacts in your wallet or purse in case of an emergency.
Other Tips To Check Out:
Hi, you are up on the Cancer Research Blog Carnival - make sure you link back! Just follow the link to read the current edition.
Excellent advice for patients to follow. By getting a second or even a third opinion and by asking lots of questions, you will educate yourself about your illness and know that you have chosen the best treatment course available.
Helene - I was misdiagnosed for cancer, and that’s what inspired me to write this entry. I can’t stress other opinions enough!