As a patient in the U.S. health care system you will face many obstacles to getting safe, quality, and affordable health care. To overcome them, you must advocate for yourself and lead your health care team. You’ll get a big assist from many primary and specialty care practices transitioning into medical homes and providing patient-centered care.
You are the core of your health. You make the most of the choices that impact your health. You certainly feel or suspect that something may be wrong long before anyone else. You decide when and how to engage with the health care system.
The crucial steps when advocating for yourself are:
- Ask questions when you’re not sure.
- Get your questions answered in a way that you understand
- Make sure that your preferences are known by your health care providers and caregivers.
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