In today’s rapidly evolving health care landscape, accessing reliable and affordable health care can be challenging. Fortunately, new technologies and online platforms are making it easier than ever to connect with top-rated doctors and evaluate the quality of care. Hospital and provider review websites, online education, artificial intelligence and even phone app resources can empower patients to make better informed decisions. By using these tools and following a few essential tips, one can stay ahead of the curve, access the best healthcare options available, and avoid potential risks.
Here are some ways to take charge of your healthcare:
1) Maintain a personal regularly updated list of good (and bad) doctors/health care facilities including specific addresses, phone numbers and respective specialties. When a friend or relative has a medical issue, quiz them on their experience and the specifics. Record the names of any hospitals, clinics, nurses etc. If you see a relevant article in a local newspaper or online, take note and enter the information into your database. Make a physical (paper) copy of the list. Keep one copy in a readily accessible location and/or file it with the rest of your medical records. Save another copy on your phone and/or computer.
2) Independently research all of your health care providers and facilities. A quick google or internet search may offer valuable insights. Key things to look for in a physician include the name of the medical school they attended, where they did their residency, number of years in practice, any honors or awards, malpractice history, licenses held, professional memberships and hospital affiliations. A good resource for finding the top hospitals is published annually by US News & World Report. Other online resources include Healthgrades, RateMDs, Vitals, AMA Directory, Medicare Directory, Care Compare and Castle Connolly. It’s worth noting that hospitals differ in their areas of excellence– cancer treatment, pediatrics, neurology, etc. “Knowledge is power” as they say. Online tools can empower the consumer when used correctly. For example, did your doctor train at a hospital known for excellence in their particular area of practice? Excellent training forms the foundation for most careers; medicine is no exception.
3) When in doubt, online search the state medical board website to make sure your provider is fully board certified, actively licensed and free of adverse actions.
4) Don’t be afraid to ask questions. An educated consumer has the power to make better informed decisions. Qualified doctors don’t mind being asked relevant medical questions.
5) Trust your gut instinct. If you don’t feel comfortable with a health care provider or facility, don’t be afraid to voice your concerns and/or find a replacement. Patient advocates can provide support when challenging circumstances arise. A patient advocate is trained to help individual patients cope with the complexities of health care. They can offer support and facilitate communication between patients, families, providers and facilities. Patient advocates can also assist with complex medical issues and managing medical bills. Many hospitals have patient advocates on their staff. Some companies (typically insurance, employers and government agencies) may also employ patient advocates. Independent patient advocacy organizations such as the Patient Advocate Foundation are an additional resource.
6) Be a your own healthcare advocate. You have the right to a second opinion and should seek one should you have any reservations about the type of care being offered.
7) Dig deep. Before you sign that consent form, make sure to read it carefully and understand exactly what you’re signing. This may present a challenge because you might not see the consent form until the day of the procedure. In certain instances, such as emergency procedures, options may be limited. But for elective procedures it’s wise to ask for a copy of the consent form well ahead of the procedure date so you have adequate time to review it. Many hospitals and practices now offer convenient online health care patient portals where one can access medical records, forms and test results.
8) Always ask for a copy of your medical records — this includes written records as well as copies of any related studies– lab results, mammograms, CT, MRI, Xrays etc. This serves a dual purpose: it makes it easier to locate studies later and provides insurance against records getting lost or destroyed (many facilities have rules governing how long they are required to keep your records). Record any medications prescribed. Include the prescriber’s name, date, dose information, duration taken, pharmacy location and indication.
9) Develop good relationships with your medical care providers. Maintain professional relationships with your providers and try to avoid adversarial situations. Medical professionals can be a great source of information, and it’s well worth cultivating these relationships. Sending a thank-you card or posting a positive online review can make a meaningful impact. Demonstrating respect and appreciation has become increasingly important in this fast-paced world.
10) Finally, know your rights. It pays to familiarize yourself with HIPAA and the laws of your particular state. There are laws and regulations governing many aspects of health care and it is to your benefit to be familiar with them. The old expression “what you don’t know can’t hurt you,” definitely does not apply to health care. In fact it can be quite the opposite. Be proactive, understand your rights and educate yourself. It could save your life someday.
Photo credits:Top image: “Stethoscope Medical” by Negative Space/ CC0 1.0