The phrase “Call me in the morning” actually works. The human body has such great ability to heal itself, running to the Doc’s isn’t usually necessary. But we are living in a changed time for healthcare hence today’s post of advice.

1. When you sign up for a plan this Fall, try to get one that is a PPO since you can call and get specialty care without going thru your primary. That is important because even primary care docs are so backed up that it could take months to see one, then another few to get into the specialist.
2. When you do make an appointment (if you can get thru the long phone trees these offices have) ask for first available…. even if you see a nurse practitioner or PA. That gets you in the door. You may be surprised that it is already next year to get appointments. Ask to be called if they have a cancellation. Then call another office and get on their list. Don’t just sit and wait for your first choice. If the “2 aspirin trick” doesn’t work then you need to be seen and even when you are, it will takes weeks to get scans, biopsies and other specialty appointments.
3. Now is not the time for a “less is more” strategy. Always ask for the CT instead of an x-ray (tumors hide behind the heart.) Inquire about a pet scan. MRI’s of brain and joints are best. Because it is taking so long to get anything done, I go big. If I order an x-ray I have probably lost another week before a CT or MRI is scheduled.
4. Iatrogenically induced “disease” is real. That’s “unintentionally doctor caused”. Check side effects of all meds ordered. Pharmacies dispense a general (every day,or every 4-8 hours). Meds can be nuanced based on the patient. If you are thin and frail, every 8 not 4 hrs may be for you, so they need “tweaking”.
5. In that regard always set up a followup appointment with your doc in no further than a few months if this is a new or developing issue. You can always say, “I’d like to be seen sooner”.

Have you noticed that time trying to access healthcare system is increasing? Its real. All these “urgent centers” cropping up for acute care are trying to keep all but the most sick out of hospital ER’s, which is fine, but they do not offer care for specialty issues. Remember, especially if you have cancer or a major illness (acute or chronic) that you are special and must have care.

Everyone is battling for limited resources. It’s not as bad as countries with national health service, but it is still becoming a challenge. We want to believe that healthcare is here to serve us, be available and helpful, but a lot has changed, especially with corporate takeover of hospitals and physicians. So again, get the best insurance supplement you can, advocate for yourself or your loved ones and demand the attention you deserve.

Shout out today to Cancer nurse Valerie on the 45th anniversary of nursing! She is doing a HALO jump (High Altitude,Low Oxygen) from 18,000 feet!. She must have borrowed the nerves of steel and bravery from her cancer patients.