Be your own Advocate

“Every day, when I think it can’t get worse,” as the saying goes. What, you ask? The health care system.

As a Physician Assistant with 40 + years of experience, certification as a Patient Advocate, I continue to hit walls; if I am ready to “quit,” what about everyone else who doesn’t have my knowledge of the health care system or my ability to get “past the front desk.?”

A little bit of history, I had a heart attack three years ago and was scheduled for a follow-up with my cardiologist. The visit was three months overdue as my doctor was taking “grandparent” leave, and we decided I was stable, and a three-month delay was acceptable.

Unfortunately, last month, I was sick with a dry cough, fatigue, and sore throat for two days. Being responsible, I tried to re-schedule my appointment for the following week. My appointment? January 27th. I waited to see if they would move my visit up, and I knew I would be seen within the week (assuming my Covid test was negative), but the health care system continues to “punish” us. How is this okay?

It isn’t. So I waited on hold (again, for 8 minutes and counting). I was not optimistic that I would get an appointment, but I planned to ask for the office manager and then my doctor. (BTW, most doctors have no idea what goes on at the front desk). I will not accept another delay, but how many others will have my stubbornness or realize how important this is and get what you need to take care of your health?   Be persistent, assertive, but pleasant. And remember why you are doing this.

#beyourownadvocate, #wellness, #healthcare,