Leverage Your Resources

Many of us are simply unaware of the plethora of resources that we have access to in the healthcare system. Part of being an empowered patient involves accessing and utilizing those resources. But where and how do we find the resources? How do we know what we have access to? What do we need?

Luckily, there are tools and resources out there that can direct us as we filter through our needs. Here I will share with you a variety of sources made possible by our good friend, the internet. 

Finding the Right Caregiver

It is necessary that our doctor is a person we can trust to provide, honest, ethical, and supportive care for our health needs. Our doctor should be somebody who is receptive, collaborative, and faithfully providing you with the care you deserve. For those who are in search of a physician, whether you are moving to a new area or seeking better care, Doctor Finder can help you locate the right physician based on your location.

Using a Translator

Communication barriers have been contributed to many adverse health effects. According to Nursing Times, some of the effects of language-based communication issues include: 

• poor knowledge and comprehension of diagnosis
• poor adherence to treatment
• increased risk of medical errors 
• poor health outcomes, such as longer hospital stay

People with limited/no English proficiency report lower patient satisfaction with health services. However, the use of translators has been associated with:

• Fewer communication issues
• Enhanced patient knowledge and understanding of their diagnosis and treatment (Karliner et al, 2007);
• Increased access to healthcare services;
• Reduced disparity of health-service use by those with No/LEP compared with native speakers (Gill et al, 2009; Diamond et al, 2008; Karliner et al, 2007).

Translation Clinic provides the rundown for deciding whether to get a health interpreter or interpreter. Most healthcare facilities have healthcare interpreters employed for your service. If English is not your primary language, be sure to express this concern before your appointment to be sure that you can get the recommended accommodations that you need.

Translators and physician searches are only a couple of the resources that are available to us as patients, but the benefit of utilizing these resources can improve health services and allow us to take control of the major decisions regarding our health.