The health field has undergone so many changes, along with new laws and FDA Regulations when it comes to prescriptions. Insurance plans have changed, and even the attitudes of doctors, not all, have some of their patients concerned; from controlled substances to physical therapy, doctors write out prescriptions for both, not to mention referrals. So what happens if you see one of these ‘referred’ doctors and you get an uneasy feeling? Should you continue to make the visits, or do you ask to see someone else? It isn’t always easy, especially when your insurance plan dictates your HMO, as to who you may, or may not see.
In one of my most recent doctor visits, I stood in front of the counter to announce my arrival, checking in 10 minutes prior to my appointment time. I was told to take a seat and the doctor will be with me shortly. I brought a book to read, but found it hard to concentrate, as I couldn’t help but over hear the girls behind the desk. They spoke about patients that called, making fun of some of them, among other personal information they continued to exchange. This is not professional behavior, so if the doctor’s office is like that, what kind of doctor would allow this to happen? Have you ever noticed that some offices or clinics don’t seem to return your call in a timely manner… or maybe not even at all? If problems like that bother you, you have the right to let the doctor know; that’s what I did. I actually do have some very good doctor’s; in fact they will call me themselves.
Then we have some doctors (depending where you live) who write prescriptions for ailments without actually testing you for them, and every state has a few. If you are serious about finding the “right” doctor for you, you may check their qualifications out at www.vitals.com and www.healthgrades.com along with written reviews from other patients.
Recently, I was in an office with a doctor who wanted to prescribe medications for neurological pain. Soon as I asked about side effects and was told what they were… I said “No.” We have a right to deny medications, just as we do when it comes to surgeries. Recently I’ve spent much time reading articles online about people with a variety of conditions, along with personal experiences to medications and different options… depending of course on what the medical problem is. I believe if we eat healthier and try our best to find an exercise regimen, it can alleviate some of our problems; even if it is a very slight improvement. Miracles exist, though not in all cases, we must believe through hope of our own that one day we will be better. It is part of our mental attitude, though I confess here… it is not as easy as it sounds. There are good days and bad, just as it is in life. We have choices, and when it comes to the medical field, we need to be more aware of our conditions, as well as to the medical care we seek. Take control of your health and research your options before making decisions. Ongoing medical issues can take a toll on us spiritually, besides physically. We have a responsibility to our loved ones, as ourselves… so take your health seriously, we have a right to take charge and make better choices; “Be well.”
Make your week count.
