patient communication
“When I’m Sixty-Four” and If I’m Alone….
Back in 2004, I was between husbands, and in my early 50s. As silly as that may sound (“between husbands”), the truth was, I spent 18 years with that status, between divorce and remarriage… and I was alone. “Alone” is the key to today’s post. Back in 2004, I was also diagnosed with a rare…
Read MoreThe Folly of Driving to the ER
Hugh, a gentleman of about 68 years, lived alone. Hugh wasn’t feeling well. It was just a general feeling that something – who knows what? – just wasn’t right. After a short while, Hugh walked over to see Phil, his next door neighbor. Phil agreed to drive Hugh to the Emergency Room. It took them…
Read MoreWhat Are Board-Certified Patient Advocates And When Do You Need One?
When you’re trying to navigate the healthcare system, it can help to have an expert by your side. Now, you can find Board-Certified Patient Advocates with nationally recognized advocacy credentials.
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 MoreAre You, a Friend, or Loved One “Battling” Cancer?
Those of us who spend much of our time embroiled in some way within the healthcare system are reminded, over and over again, that not everyone sees themselves as a patient in the same way. As in: you say “tomato” and I say “tomahto.” I was reminded of this after reading this article from New…
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