She Strengthens

Empowering Your Health Journey: 10 Essential Tips for Self-Advocacy

In today’s healthcare system, where medical professionals are often overworked and exhausted, it’s crucial to know how to advocate for the treatment you deserve. This is especially true for women, who often face unique challenges in the healthcare system.

Shifting the Power Dynamic

According to Dr. Anjana Sharma, an assistant professor of family community medicine at the UCSF School of Medicine, doctors must acknowledge the power imbalance in the exam room and prioritize trauma-informed care practices. By taking an active role in your health journey, you can shift the power dynamic in your favor and ensure you receive the care you need.

Pre-Appointment Checklist: 10 Ways to Advocate for Yourself

Before your appointment, arm yourself with information from trustworthy sources such as.gov,.org, and.edu sites. Research your symptoms, and prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor. Here are 10 essential tips to help you advocate for yourself:

1. Do Your Research

Don’t rely solely on your doctor’s expertise. Look into your symptoms, and explore different treatment options. Bridgette Hempstead, a two-time breast cancer survivor, founded Cierra Sisters, an organization that provides support, education, and advocacy for African American women’s breast health. She recommends using reputable sources to inform your decisions.

2. Find the Right Doctor

Know what you want and don’t want in a doctor. Research their background, read reviews, and ask questions before scheduling an appointment. LaTasha Perkins, MD, a family physician in Washington, D.C., suggests finding a doctor who is a better fit for you.

3. Request Accommodations

Inform your healthcare provider about your needs and ask them to note it in your chart. Jenn Welch, a comedian and writer, shares her experience of disclosing her recovery status and PTSD to her doctors.

4. Bring Notes

Write down your symptoms, medical history, and questions to ask your doctor. Johannah Ruddy, a patient advocate and co-author of Gut Feelings, emphasizes the importance of keeping a journal to help doctors identify patterns and clues.

5. Listen to Your Body

Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to speak up if you’re uncomfortable with your treatment. Stephanie Chuang, founder of The Patient Story, shares her experience of advocating for herself during chemotherapy.

6. Lean on Your Support System

Surround yourself with people who can advocate for you when you can’t. Eva Woolridge, an award-winning photographer and public speaker, credits her roommate and father for supporting her during a hospital stay.

7. Don’t Settle for Uncomfortable Treatment

If you’re not comfortable with a treatment option, speak up and explore alternatives. Amy Motroni, a certified baby and toddler sleep consultant, shares her experience of pushing for a different treatment approach during her infertility journey.

8. Coordinate Your Care

When seeing multiple specialists, ensure they communicate with each other. Isabel Mavrides, a Latina disability justice activist and organizer, shares her experience of coordinating her care after a spinal injury.

9. Get a Second Opinion

Don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion if you’re unhappy with your diagnosis or treatment. Bridgette Hempstead fired her doctor and found a new one who provided her with high-quality treatment options.

10. File a Formal Complaint if Necessary

If you suspect bias or discrimination, report it and find another doctor. Erica Hernandez shares her experience of filing a complaint and getting a proper diagnosis and treatment.

By following these 10 essential tips, you can empower yourself to take control of your health journey and ensure you receive the care you deserve. Remember, your voice matters, and you have the right to advocate for yourself.