Ask For a Second and Third Opinion
by Debora Myers We all know how important it is to take responsibility for our health care needs. With stress levels rising higher and higher, it’s no wonder that we are under the gun, so to speak, when it comes to the many illnesses that can sneak up when we’re over-worked and exhausted. While it’s good to have a doctor whom we trust to go to for help, it’s also advisable to have a back up doctor not directly connected to our primary physician’s practice to consult for a second opinion.
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 Since doctors hold a tremendous amount of power over our health, many people blindly accept the doctor’s opinion as the last word. We must take as much responsibility for ourselves as we possibly can, however, which means educating ourselves and taking extra time to seek out a second or even third opinion when diagnosed with a serious illness, or when we “feel” that something serious is being overlooked. A good doctor should not be threatened when we go elsewhere for a second opinion. A doctor’s objective should be that we are using everything available to us to ensure that we get all the information and care needed.
Taking Charge of Your Own Healthcare If you don’t receive a call concerning the results of lab work from your doctor’s office, don’t automatically think that everything is okay, but call to confirm the lab test results. Many doctor’s offices are so over-worked that they may neglect to inform you of the results of your test, so sometimes you must take the responsibility of calling the doctor’s office. It also can’t hurt to get a second lab test done; labs are notorious for making mistakes.
In addition to seeing traditional western doctors, some people use alternative approaches to health care and seek help from naturopaths, homeopaths, massage therapists, midwives, “energy” (psychic) healers or other alternative practitioners to gain a more well-rounded approach to their health. When doing this, it’s imperative that you keep your own detailed records of the medications and herbal preparations you are taking and list your reactions to them.
Make sure that your health care professionals know about each other and can confer concerning your treatments and medications. This can help you to avoid any drug/herbal interaction problems. Remember, herbs are powerful medicines too and you must not forget to mention these. Keep a journal and list your health concerns, documenting the times you experience certain symptoms and how long they last, also documenting your diet and exercise routines. Be clear and thorough when describing your symptoms.
By taking responsibility you can avoid many problems and be an active participant in your own health care and not feel that you’re at the mercy of one professional.
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