Sometimes medical conditions are confusing. And while you might understand how to follow your treatment plan, you might become confused as things become more complicated or your disease worsens. With the help of a patient advocate, you can both listen to what the doctor is saying, then begin to ask questions so that you both understand the situation. Again, if you feel uncomfortable asking questions, then you can give this list of questions to the advocate to begin to see what they can find out when you are in an appointment together. The advocate, if given HIPPA privileges can also call the doctor’s office to ask questions about your condition, if needed.
Is Your Illness Affecting Your Memory?
In some cases, your illness or its treatment can affect your memory. By having a patient advocate working with you, they can create notes for each of your appointments, allowing you to see what was said, what was agreed to, etc. The more people you have keeping track of your medical history, the easier it will be to determine what the best course of action is. That said, if your memory begins to fail too much, you will want to draw up a contingency plan of what you want done for you so that the advocate can ensure your wishes are followed.
With a patient advocate, you will be able to manage your health as well as your treatment, allowing you to feel secure in your medical care.
