October 27, 2023

10 Self-Advocacy Steps for Health and Recovery

23 minutes

Ep. 77 Advocating for yourself is an important step in taking control of your well-being. It’s one of the tools in the self-care toolbox you can use. In this episode, Kelly Marie gives you her top 10 self-advocacy steps and discusses the ways she used many of them to help her manage her mobility issues, spinal surgery and recovery. Remember, advocating for your health is an ongoing process. Stay proactive, stay informed, and stay engaged in your own journey.

Educate Yourself: Learn about your medical condition or concern. Understand the symptoms, treatments, and potential alternatives. Research reputable sources, consult medical professionals, and join support groups or online communities to gather information and insights.

Clearly Communicate: When discussing your health with healthcare providers, be clear and concise about your symptoms, concerns, and questions. Describe your symptoms in detail, provide a comprehensive medical history, and express any worries or doubts you may have.

Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions about your health condition, treatment options, potential side effects, and recovery process. Seek clarification if something is unclear. Asking questions helps you gain a better understanding of your situation and empowers you to make informed decisions. *Pro tip: Use your phone’s notetaking feature to jot down questions. You’ll always have them with you when you see your health professional.

Build a Supportive Healthcare Team: Choose healthcare providers who listen to your concerns and respect your input. A supportive team includes doctors, nurses, specialists, and other professionals who collaborate with you to make decisions about your health. If you feel unheard or dismissed, consider seeking a second opinion.

Keep Records: Maintain organized records of your medical history, including test results, diagnoses, treatments, and medications. This documentation will help you track your progress, communicate effectively with healthcare providers, and have a comprehensive overview of your health. *Pro tip: see #3

Be Proactive: Take an active role in your healthcare. Stay informed about new research, treatments, or alternative therapies related to your condition. Advocate for preventative measures and screenings.

Seek Second Opinions: If you receive a significant diagnosis or face a complex medical decision, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion. Another perspective can provide valuable insights and confirm the best course of action.

Engage in Shared Decision-Making: Collaborate with your healthcare team in making decisions about your health. Share your preferences, values, and concerns, and work together to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as a patient. Research laws and regulations related to healthcare, privacy, and informed consent. Knowing your rights will help you advocate for yourself effectively.

Utilize Support Networks: Connect with advocacy groups, patient organizations, and support networks related to your health condition. These groups can provide valuable resources, information, and emotional support during your healthcare journey.

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