Senior Series: Navigating Health Care
Know Your Medical History/Insurance Info
Before your appointment, familiarize yourself with your medical history. This includes:
Insurance Information: Have a copy of your insurance card and know where your plan covers for treatment. Often universities have great health centers that easily accessible.
Dates of Surgeries: Keep track of any past surgeries and the reasons for them.
Allergies: Make a list of any allergies, whether they’re food-related, medication-based, or environmental.
Family Medical History: Understanding what conditions run in your family can provide important context for your health.
If you have bloodwork done, be sure to keep copies for your personal medical records. Many conditions can show signs long before an official diagnosis, so having this information readily available can be beneficial.
Addressing Medical Anxiety
Going to the doctor can be intimidating, especially if you struggle with medical anxiety. You’re not alone—many people experience this. In fact, doctors often anticipate that your blood pressure may be elevated during your visit due to stress.
To help manage anxiety, consider preparing some stress management techniques in advance. Deep breathing exercises, visualization, or even listening to calming music can help ground you before and during your appointment. Be aware if your anxiety is preventing you from getting necessary medical treatment. Consider taking a trusted friend or discussing your treatment plan with a trusted adult.
Make the Most of Your Appointment
To maximize the value of your visit, be clear about why you’re there BEFORE you arrive. Here are some tips:
Identify Symptoms: Think about how long you’ve been experiencing symptoms, their intensity, and what makes them better or worse.
Write it Down: Jot down your concerns and symptoms beforehand to ensure you don’t forget anything during the visit.
Take Notes: During the appointment, feel free to take notes. Treatment plans may seem straightforward in the moment but can become confusing once you leave.
Educate Yourself
Now that you’re an adult, it’s essential to take an active role in understanding your diagnosis and treatment options. Researching conditions can empower you to:
Understand Side Effects: Knowing what side effects of medications to expect can help you manage them better and decide if they are needed for long-term use. For example, after surgery, pain medication can often cause constipation or necessary antibiotics may upset your microbiome. Considering the big picture can help you mitigate secondary issues.
Explore Remission Possibilities: Understanding the potential for remission can provide hope and guide your treatment decisions. This often involves discovering the root cause of the issue and intervening when appropriate. For example, Type 2 Diabetes, PCOS, several autoimmune conditions can be reversed or improved dramatically through lifestyle interventions!
Support Your Recovery: Learn how to best support your body during recovery, especially for long-lasting conditions. For example, certain nutrients are needed for the thyroid to be optimized, so if you are diagnosed with a thyroid condition, ensuring sufficient nutrients can be very helpful in addition to thyroid hormone.
Final Thoughts
Taking ownership of your medical care is a vital part of adulthood. By being informed, managing your anxiety, and actively participating in your health journey, you can navigate the sometimes daunting world of medical appointments with greater confidence. Remember, your health is in your hands, and taking these steps can help ensure you’re on the right track.