Page 21 - Florida Sentinel 9-2-22

Health
It is very important for us to be able to advocate for ourselves in healthcare set- tings.
Patients of all back- grounds are finding them- selves on the short end of the stick in our current state of health care. Doctors are often overworked, ex- hausted, short on time, and are prone to make mistakes.
Black Americans, in par- ticular, find themselves feel- ing ignored and receiving a lesser quality of care. Re- search shows that when deal- ing with Black patients, non-Black providers pre- scribe treatment less often, are less empathetic, take re- ports of pain and symptoms less seriously, are more physically standoffish. They also tend to believe that Black patients don’t comply with medical guidance.
Addressing the underly- ing causes (i.e. racial bias) that lead to this sort of treat- ment will take time. So what can we do right now to strive for the type of interactions with health providers that we deserve? Here are some tips for taking an active role in your healthcare.
1. Do your research.
Not a “Dr. Google” search to diagnose yourself – that may be more harmful than helpful. Research treatment options to gain a solid under- standing of any health condi- tions you’re dealing with.
2. Set and prioritize goals.
Before visits with your doctor, determine what you want to get out of the visit and what’s most important. Bring a written list with you to reference.
3. Bring a friend or family member.
Having a trusted loved one with you can offer emo- tional support. He or she can also act as a backup in de- scribing your symptoms, so your doctor will be more likely to take them seriously.
4. Remind your doc- tor that you’re a team.
Studies have shown that the negative effects of bias that doctors experience can be offset by viewing them- selves and their patients as a
team.
5. Take notes or record your visit.
Take notes to ensure that you remember what you and your doctor have discussed. Or, if your provider gives you permission, record your con- versation with your phone.
6. Make lists.
Document the symptoms that you have been feeling and any circumstances sur- rounding the onset of those symptoms.
7. Don’t soldier through the discomfort.
Be honest with your doc- tor about your pain. If the side effects of a prescribed treatment are too much to
bear, let your doctor know.
8. Ask questions.
Then ask some more. If you don’t understand some-
thing that your doctor is ex- plaining, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Though it may feel uncomfortable, if the doctor is using words that you aren’t familiar with, say so.
9. Push back when needed.
If a proposed prescription or other action isn’t right for your lifestyle, acknowledge that and explain why. Trust that you know your body. You have a say in what’s right for you.
Each of these tips can help you to feel more pre- pared and confident to advo- cate for what you need when working with your health provider. Treat your health care visits like dinner out at a restaurant. You wouldn’t let your waiter bring you the wrong order. Don’t allow your health care provider to leave you wanting for more.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2022 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY FRIDAY PAGE 9-B