You are just as responsible for your well-being as your health care practitioners and providers.

March 11-17 is Patient Safety Awareness Week and for 2018, the focus is on the creation of a safety-centric culture and patient engagement.

There are simple ways to be an active member of your personal care team, and while some of these tips may seem obvious, stop for a minute and think about whether you’re actually in the driver’s seat when it comes to your health.
 

• Speak up and ask questions: If your doctor uses words or phrasing you don’t understand, ask them to explain using simpler language. Don’t hesitate to ask questions until you fully understand.
• Discuss: Even if you feel like you’ve got a good grasp of what took place during your appointment, feel free to repeat back to your provider what your understanding of the situation is, and give voice to your thoughts, preferences and concerns.
• Know your medications: Not only the name and dosage, but also any associated benefits and risks.
• Be clear, concise and accurate: Don’t leave out any part of your medical history, because your doctor is the best judge of how important even the smallest bit of information is to your care.
• Learn everything: Ask your doctor for trustworthy online sources or books so you can learn more about your condition. Be informed about symptoms, which you can expect, what tests are worthwhile, and other potential causes.
• Keep good records: Your medical history is also your responsibility. Know which tests you’ve had and understand your results. Keep track of when you had specific appointments and be aware of what’s to come.

It’s important for us to be a strong partner in your health care and to help you make the most informed decisions for a healthy future. We’re here to set goals with you and, above all, listen to and answer your questions.

Feel free to call us at (888) 499-9303 to schedule an appointment to speak with your primary care provider (PCP) or visit our website for more information.