Advocating for yourself at the doctor’s office is no small feat: it can take preparation and planning to be willing to speak up on behalf of your health care needs in the clinical setting. It can be challenging getting your healthcare needs met with a busy schedule and time caps on appointments. By establishing your health goals and making clear expectations for your doctor’s visits, you can make the most of your appointments, changing your health care outcomes for the better. Here are eight ways to better advocate for yourself at your next doctor’s visit: 

1. Be Intentional When Booking

 While booking your appointment, make it clear what specifically you want to be seen for as well as describing any recent symptoms you have experienced. Providing details ahead of time can ensure that there is enough time scheduled for your appointment to cover everything of importance. 

When establishing the time of your appointment, choose a time that works well for your schedule and energy levels. If possible, try to schedule an appointment earlier in the morning, as your provider may feel more relaxed and focused at the beginning of the day. 

2. Practice What You Will Say

Before attending your appointment, write out what you would like to talk about and practice saying it, similarly to a script. This will allow you to feel more comfortable describing your condition and symptoms during the actual appointment. 

If necessary, also practice advocating for yourself in the case you feel misunderstood by your provider. This can sound like disagreeing with their incorrect description, explaining your symptoms again, or letting them know that their synopsis is not quite correct. Although it can be challenging to disagree with your provider, it is your right to feel understood and heard during your appointment. 

3. Bring a Friend or Family Member for Support 

Attending doctor’s visits can be anxiety-inducing, but bringing a family member or friend for support can help you feel more comfortable. Your buddy can be an anchor during stressful times in an appointment, or they can act as a second pair of hands to help you take notes. They can also help you to remember important topics you would like covered during your visit. 

4. Consider a Second Opinion

If you didn’t get the answers you were looking for from a provider, it is more than okay to seek out a second opinion in hopes of learning more about your condition. It’s your right to feel sure about your health, and seeking out advice from another doctor is completely acceptable. You can ask for a referral from your doctor or look online for people who specialize in your condition. Getting a second opinion can allow you to feel more confident in medical advice or your diagnosis.

5. Don't be Afraid to Ask Questions

In order to best advocate for yourself, make sure you fully comprehend your care plan. In order to establish full understanding, bring a list of important questions with you to your appointment and ask your doctor for clarification on any unclear topics. You can also ask about what your doctor has done in past similar situations or for more details about your medication. 

6. Find a Supportive Community

If you are suffering from a chronic illness or persistent condition, seeking out a support group can be a great way to feel less alone in your experience. By hearing from others with similar experiences, you can learn more about your own diagnosis and medical needs. They can also provide referrals and recommendations for providers who specialize in treating your condition. 

7. Do Your Research

If you’ve received a diagnosis, take some time to learn more information about your condition, treatment options, and new research findings. Being knowledgeable about your condition can allow you to make better-informed decisions for your health. 

8. Have a Clear Care Plan

During your doctor’s visit, work with your provider to create a clear plan of care to help treat your symptoms. Make sure you understand different aspects of your care plan, like medication and side-effects, lifestyle changes, and when to schedule a follow-up appointment. Fully understanding your plan of care can help you to better treat your symptoms, prevent further health issues, and optimize health care results. 

Advocating for yourself at the doctor’s allows you to ensure your individual needs are met, achieve improved health outcomes, fight bias in the healthcare system, and establish a stronger provider-patient relationship. To find more ways to make the most of your appointment, check out our blogs on Easier Visits with Your Doctor and 10 Questions to Ask Your Doctor During Your Next Visit. Schedule your next doctor’s appointment at Thrive Wellness here.