Speak for Yourself! Self-Advocacy in Health Care

The health care system can be overwhelming to navigate and often exhausting. The diagnosis process can be physically and emotionally stressful and waiting for results can be frustrating and anxiety-provoking. You should be empowered by your doctor to advocate for yourself and family when discussing care plans. 

Advocate To Be Fully Informed

Given the impact diagnostic testing has on your physical and psychological well-being, it's critical you're fully informed about the risks and benefits about each test you need. Understanding each test and its risks is essential to the diagnostic process. In order to consent to proposed diagnostic screenings and prescribed forms of treatment, you need extensive information regarding treatment options. 

As a patient, you have the right to question your provider's choices regarding testing and treatment for your medical conditions. However, it's the responsibility of every care provider to catch potential discrepancies in orders or treatment plans. 

For example, you have lower back pain and your primary care doctor orders an X-ray of your spine. When you arrive, the X-ray technician explains that the scan your doctor ordered wouldn't capture the focal point of pain. They called your doctor to ensure an order was received for the appropriate scan. 

The implications of incorrect or unnecessary test administration can lead to financial and emotional stress and delays in diagnosis. Caregivers who answer your questions and validate your concerns about testing and treatment allow you to feel comfortable speaking up for yourself. You can also feel confident in your choices. 

It's critical you feel empowered to ask questions about your healthcare, and hospitals need to support you as you navigate care in a sometimes complex system.  

Action Steps To Take To Self-Advocate

• Write down your symptoms, questions and concerns before your appointment so you do not forget anything important.
• Bring a list of your medications, past diagnoses and any recent test results to help your care team get the full picture.
• Ask your doctor to explain medical terms, testing options and next steps in plain language if anything is unclear.
• Repeat back what you heard or take notes during the visit to make sure you understand the plan.
• Speak up if a recommendation does not match your symptoms, concerns, values or goals for care.
• Bring a trusted family member or friend for support if you want help asking questions or remembering information.