doctor communication
Did You Get Something That Looks Like a Medicare Card in the Mail?
The envelope says its from Medicare. The card inside looks very official. It’s got your name on it, and a bunch of numbers and letters that don’t look at all familiar. But – can you trust it? Is this new Medicare card for real? Can you use it with your doctor and other medical needs?…
Read MoreBlack Box Warnings May Save Your Life
This often comes as a major surprise for patients: that when a prescription drug is known to be effective, and is approved by the FDA for some patients, that doesn’t mean it’s effective and safe for all patients. It’s true that some people may be allergic, or the drug might have been prescribed to treat…
Read MoreOK, But What’s the Question?
In my previous life as a speaker and writer on patient empowerment issues, I received email, even postal mail (meaning, yes, someone paid for a stamp!) from patients who were being challenged in some way by the healthcare system. Sometimes I would hear from 8 or 10 people in a week, 25, 30 or more…
Read MoreHow to Take Control of Your Medical Test Results
I’m not sure how it happened, but over the years, my medical appointments and tests all seem to have ended up as summer scheduled dates. Of course that means I’m waiting for test results in the summer, too. You know – all those annual or periodic things: bloodwork, mammogram, bone density, dentist, optometrist…. I also…
Read MoreHow To Take Command Of Your Care When Your Doctor Goes Missing
When you get thrown for a loop with your healthcare, it can be hard to regroup. But there are strategies that can help you take command of your care.
Read MoreHow To Protect Yourself From Dangerous Drug Interactions
Millions of people take multiple medications. But too often, drug interactions cause harm and even death. These interactions are preventable, but you may need to enlist an advocate to prevent errors.
Read MoreHow To Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard In Healthcare
It can be hard to use your voice to express your needs and preferences. But in healthcare, it’s essential that you do. Professional advocates can help.
Read MoreSometimes the Doctor IS Wrong: How to Avoid Misdiagnosis
Misdiagnosis. This topic is very personal. In fact, over the years I have been affected by PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) because of a misdiagnosis that I experienced. But because it’s so personal, I may be the best person to share this lesson with you. My name is Trisha Torrey. Thirteen years ago this week,…
Read More“Do Not Quote Me”
A few years ago I was at a picnic with a friend who is an orthopedist. The question was raised about whether advice given by doctors is always in the best interests of the patient. “Do not quote me,” was how he began his reply. At least that alerted me that he would give an…
Read MoreWill the Waiter Spit In Your Soup?
You’ve heard this fear before – that if you are too demanding of your waiter, or challenge him or her in any way, then he might spit in your soup as a form of revenge. Unfortunately, too many of us think the same of our doctors. As if, if we are difficult patients, then the…
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