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As a differently-abled person, your health needs are unique, so it’s vital to ensure that your doctors are taking your concerns seriously and providing you with the best possible care. When you have an existing condition, it’s easy for any symptoms you experience to be written off as part of that ailment rather than being investigated as a potential new problem. Here are a few ways to assist yourself throughout the medical process.

ADVOCATION

Ask questions

When you’re meeting with a healthcare professional, it’s important to ask any questions you may have, so you can be sure that you understand your diagnosis and treatment plan. This will also give you the opportunity to vocalise any concerns you have regarding the doctor’s assessment.

 

Maintain your own records

Keep a record of your medical history, including any medications you’re taking, allergies and past surgeries or procedures. This will be helpful if you ever need to see a new healthcare provider. You can also save records on your Kindle for easy access at the doctor’s office. Save your documents as a PDF and send to your Kindle email address to make these easier to read – even without WiFi.

 

Understand your health insurance

If you have private health insurance, you’ll already know the terms can be confusing but it’s important to take the time to understand your coverage. This way, you’ll be able to plan ahead for any tests you may need that will be paid out of pocket.

 

Review your medical records 

It’s not uncommon for medical records to contain errors. Be sure to review your records carefully to make sure your treatment has been correctly articled, save time in the future and ensure that any further treatments are appropriate for your condition.

 

Know when a second opinion is appropriate

If you’re unsure about your doctor’s recommendations, you could seek a second opinion. This might help you feel more confident about your care as you’ll have peace of mind if both diagnoses or treatment plans are similar in nature. If you are in contact with people who live with similar health conditions, it may be worthwhile to ask for recommendations to avoid wasting time during your search.

 

Get moral support

Whether you’re meeting with a new healthcare provider or going in for a procedure, it can be helpful to have a loved one with you. These experiences are often emotional, so if you’re in no state to absorb the information being conveyed, you’ll have someone to help you understand what’s going on and provide comfort during a difficult time.

 

PREVENTION

Ultimately, the best way to circumvent potential health issues is by keeping your body in peak condition. Fortunately, there are a few ways you can achieve this as a differently-abled person on a tight schedule.

 

Stay active

There are several exercise regimens that can be adapted to accommodate any limitations you may have. If you’re concerned, speak to a personal trainer about designing a workout that’s safe for you. It’s also possible to get your heart rate up during your work day by using your lunch break for some light exercise.

 

Eat healthily

Following a nutritious diet is vital for everyone, but it can also help relieve the symptoms of certain chronic conditions. Try to incorporate lots of fruits, vegetables and lean protein into your diet in order to help your body to function at its best.

 

Manage stress

Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your health, so it’s important to find healthy ways to cope. This may include regular meditation, yoga or simply taking some time out for yourself each day to relax.

 

This article was written for The Diversity Trust by Jennifer Scott from Spiritfinder.org.