Don’t just be a patient – be a proactive partner in your health journey.
Take your time choosing a provider.
Choosing the right healthcare provider is crucial for receiving quality care that’s right for you. Research providers online and check their credentials, specialties, and experience. Look for reviews and testimonials from other patients to gain insights into their reputation and the quality of care they provide.
Know what’s covered in your medical plan.
It’s important to know what your health insurance pays for so you can handle medical costs well. Check your insurance policy to see which treatments and services it includes and if there are any rules or things it doesn’t cover. Watch out for things like deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance rates to avoid surprise bills. Also, learn about any rules for getting approval before certain treatments or using specific doctors or hospitals. If you’re unsure about what your insurance covers, ask your insurance company or your job’s benefits person for help.
NMC Health has a generous financial assistance program. Up to 100% of your medical expenses may be covered after copays.
Practice preventative care.
Preventative care is important for staying healthy and avoiding long-term illnesses. Make sure to see your doctor regularly for check-ups to keep track of your overall health. During these visits, talk about your medical history, lifestyle, and any worries or symptoms you might have. Also, follow the screening guidelines for things like cancer, heart problems, diabetes, and high blood pressure based on your age, gender, and health risks. Catching health issues early gives you a chance to deal with them early on and stay as healthy as possible.
Download a free screenings and immunizations checklist so you know what tests you need and when to get them.
Prepare for your appointments.
It’s really important to talk openly with your doctor so they can give you the best care possible. Before your appointment, make a list of any questions or worries you have. This way, you won’t forget to mention anything important. Also, bring along any medical records, test results, or medications you have. This gives your doctor a complete picture of your health history. Being prepared helps make your appointments more helpful and ensures you get all the information you need.
Don’t ignore symptoms.
Pay attention to your body and don’t ignore any unusual signs or changes in how you feel. If you notice symptoms like pain, fatigue, changes in appetite or weight, trouble breathing, difficulty sleeping, or unusual bruising or bleeding, it’s crucial to seek medical help. These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious health problem that needs attention. Trust your instincts and don’t wait to get medical advice. Getting help early can lead to better treatment results and improved overall health.
Communicate openly with your provider.
Be honest with your provider and tell them about your health concerns, symptoms, and what kind of treatments you prefer. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to ask them to explain things better, like your diagnosis or the options for treatment. Your provider is there to help you and make sure you have all the information you need to make good decisions about your health. Be involved in making decisions about your care by sharing what you prefer and any worries you have. Working together with your provider can lead to better results and make your experience as a patient more positive.
