How do I deal with special situations with my medical care?

Posted: December 23, 2016, 1:32PM

We have been looking at different information to help our readers with their medical care. This blog will help if there are special situations.

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist or you may request to see a specialist yourself. Your insurance may require you to have a referral from your doctor, or the specialist's office may require a referral.

Your visit with the specialist may be short so go to the appointment prepared. Ask questions. Ask for written matierals to read about your condition. Ask for clarification if you don't understand what the doctor is telling you. You may want to ask about the diagnosis, recommended treatment(s), how soon treatment is needed, and ask if the specialist will send a report or talk to your primary care doctor.

If you need surgery, ask about the procedure. Is it an in patient or out patient procedure? Will you need someone with you or to drive you home? What type of problems might occur with the type of surger you need? What type of anesthesia is used, and what risks are there?

If you have to be hospitalized, how long can you expect to be there? Will you need extended care in a facility or at home? What is the specialists follow up routine? When might you expect to see your doctor in the hospital?

You may want to seek a second opinion. Hearing two different opinions may help with your medical care decisions. Your insurance company may ask for pre-authorization for a second opinion or they may require a second opinion. You will want to check your coverage.

Your condition may necessitate an emergency room visit. Make sure you have your health insurance information, a list of your medications (or your medication bottles) including over-the-counter medicines, herbal supplements and any creams or eye drops. Have information on your medical issues, and the names and addresses of your physicians. You may have a long wait in the emergency room so take something to read. You may also want to take a sweater in case it's cold. As with your other doctors, ask questions if you don't understand what you're being told. It's good to have someone with you who can be an extra set of ears. (We don't always comprehend well in an emergency situation where we may be in pain, we are definitely stressed, and there is a lot of activity.)

As with all of our medical care, communication is critical to our well-being!