The importance of visiting your primary care physician for a check-up to advocate for your health is well understood. However, many people still avoid seeking all-important medical attention or put off obtaining prescription medication to help them deal with health complaints they have just come to accept.
There could be a multitude of reasons for this such as economic reasons, work commitments, or potentially even a psychological barrier. Specifically, if patients do not feel qualified or justified to visit their physician, they may feel they will not be taken seriously or that they have personal barriers preventing treatment.
Primary healthcare physicians are designed to be your first port of call. Additionally, they are here to help you with any medical complaint you might have, regardless of your personal circumstances.
If you have trepidation, this article is designed to provide ways in which you can advocate for your health. In essence, this will provide you with the confidence and encouragement you need to visit your primary care physician, who is waiting to help you.
Find the right physician
If you have a specific health complaint, try finding a doctor who is specialized in that area. Specifically, ask for recommendations, read reviews, and look online for the right doctor to meet your needs.
Be prepared
To ease any anxieties you may have before your appointment, try preparing yourself. You can do this by listing some of the issues you might want to discuss together with any questions you have.
Remember to give your physician a full picture of your issue and detail any medications and relevant history you are aware of. By providing as much information as possible, you may aid your physician in providing you with the best possible treatment based on your needs.
It is important to not be afraid to take your notes with you, or even photos to accurately convey what you need to say.
Take someone with you
If you are comfortable discussing your medical history and needs with another person, taking someone with you can be invaluable. In fact, the right person can help to provide you with moral support, which may in itself be enough to get you to the appointment.
Moreover, they might be able to share symptoms or complaints you have forgotten or help you to remember all of the advice and treatment provided by your physician.
If you feel particularly nervous or do not believe you will be able to appropriately assert yourself, then take someone with you who will. While this may not be the most comfortable decision, it may be the best decision for your health.
Ask questions
Never be afraid to ask your doctor questions. This is particularly important should you not understand something they have said or done.
Your doctor will always be happy to answer questions; therefore, it is important to ask any you have to fully understand the picture of your health. Similarly, if you believe you have an idea as to what might be causing your health complaint or potential treatment options, then ask your physician for their advice and what they think about your suggestions.
Visiting your primary healthcare professional for medical advice or required medicine does not have to be daunting. For that reason, do not put it off any longer and advocate for your health now.
If you are looking for a PCP in the Greater Houston Area, then PCP For Life is here to help. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 281-968-4096.
