A Everyday Health article noted: “Prevention is key to staying healthy at every age, so it’s important to get the routine health care you need. It might feel as though your doctor has less time to spend with you at office visits, but that’s precisely why you want to make the most of each one.
“Going through a health care checklist during your visit can help you make sure that healthy aging is in your future.
Maximizing Your Health Care Visits. Make a list so you don’t forget to bring up any health concerns that you want to focus on.
Bring a list of all the medications you take. Even better, bring all your pill bottles so your doctor can inventory them …. Include any supplements, vitamins, and herbs you take so that he or she can check for possible drug interactions.
Organize your health care team. If you’re managing more than one health condition, provide your primary care doctor with a list of the names and contact information of all other doctors you see. … let your primary care doctor coordinate your health care team to help ensure you get the services and screenings you need when you need them. Be honest about lifestyle habits. Your doctor needs to know if you’re not exercising or eating a healthy diet. He or she will tailor your screenings and treatment based on these facts.
Speak up. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or voice concerns …. You need to be your own health care advocate. That means taking an active role …. And do your homework: If your doctor talks about a condition you may have, research it. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be for talking to your doctor about options and treatments. If you use the Internet for your research, be sure the source of the medical information is reliable …. Getting the Screenings You Need. Basic blood tests can tell a lot about your health. Every adult should know his or her cholesterol and blood pressure levels — high levels can be early warnings sign of heart disease.
Getting screened for other diseases, such as diabetes and cancer, can also help you stay healthier longer. Talk to your doctor about what screenings you should have and how often you need them.
Getting Vaccinations. Ask your doctor which vaccines you need and how often.
Paying for Your Health Care. If you don’t have health insurance or your co-pays and deductibles are more than you can afford, you can often work with the billing department at your health care facility to set up a payment plan.
Staying One Step Ahead. Being proactive about your health care needs can help you identify any problems early on, when they’re more easily treated. Live longer, healthier, and happier by taking charge of your health and seeing your doctor on a regular basis.”
Click here to read the full Every Day Health article “Being your own health care advocate can keep you on the path to healthy aging. Find out how to make the most of every doctor visit” by Beth W. Orenstein.
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Doctor, Did You Wash Your Hands? ™ provides information to consumers on understanding, managing and navigating health care options.
Jonathan M. Metsch, Dr.P.H., is Clinical Professor, Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; and Adjunct Professor, Baruch College ( C.U.N.Y.), Rutgers School of Public Health, and Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration.
This blog shares general information about understanding and navigating the health care system. For specific medical advice about your own problems, issues and options talk to your personal physician.