- Be involved in all parts of your healthcare.
- Ask questions whenever you are unsure of anything related to your healthcare.
- Whenever possible, find out how much you will be expected to pay before appointments, tests, and treatments are started.
- Request copies of your test results, doctor’s notes, and medical record when you check in for any appointment, test or treatment.
- Always find out how much successful experience your health providers have at diagnosing and treating your specific condition.
- Keep and organize copies of your medical records, test results, and interactions with all of your healthcare providers.
- Learn as much as you can about your illness and providers from trustworthy sources.
- Contact your insurance provider as much as needed to understand your coverage, your insurance provider’s guidelines, and your financial responsibilities.
- Negotiate fees with doctors and treatment providers whenever possible.
- Review your bills for mistakes.
- Consult an experienced specialist after a serious diagnosis.