In an idealistic world, medical care would revolve around you and your personal preferences, sticking to your specific needs and wishes – fitting into your plan and routine, unhindered by problems such as an unwavering medical professional who sees healthcare options in black and white. The truth is far from perfect however, and most of us choose to submit to doctors’ orders without a reflection that there might be a better-suited alternative.
With some education, however, patients can, believe it or not, take a more proactive stance pertaining to their healthcare. Referred to as “person-centered care,” it involves physicians working together with patients and any other family or caregivers they identify, considering the patient’s preferences, values and goals, and working with that information as a guide throughout all aspects of care.
There are many worthwhile steps we can all take in order to reach a more individualized degree of care:
- Think through your healthcare objectives, and write this information down to talk about with your doctors. And, request that medical personnel integrate these goals into your healthcare records.
- Become well-informed in your medical conditions and requirements, and just how they’re impacting your day-to-day life. As an example, are you suffering from complications with any routine activities of day to day living, like washing or getting dressed? Are you struggling with specific types of movements, like lifting or bending? A fantastic assessment tool is available here.
- Ensure that conversations with medical professionals are two-sided. Fully participate in a conversation to make sure your worries are dealt with and that you understand any possible side effects or any other risks of treatment recommendations.
- Should you have a number of doctors, (for instance, a primary care doctor as well as one or more specialists in a variety of practices), make sure communication is happening among all. This may necessitate requesting that documentation be shared between providers, and after that following up to make sure that’s been accomplished.
- Involve a trusted member of the family, friend, or professional in-home caregiver, such as Sheila’s Angels provides, in all medical visits. Having another person around to jot down notes, answers to questions, and other helpful information helps ensure that no balls are dropped.
For further tips, and for a partner in care to help make certain older adults and their family have a voice in their care needs, contact Sheila’s Angels. We’re able to provide accompanied transportation to procedures and appointments, pick up medications and run other errands, prepare healthy meals, and so much more. Call us at (281) 480-4846 for assistance.