How to Advocate for Yourself in Health Care

Self-advocacy can help you feel more confident and supported as you navigate your health care. When you speak up about your symptoms, concerns and goals, you can make more informed decisions about your care and build a stronger relationship with your provider.

These three simple steps can help you advocate for yourself with greater confidence before, during and after your appointment.

1. Before Your Appointment — Be Prepared

Advocating for yourself begins before you ever walk into the exam room. Taking a little time to prepare can help you feel more at ease, make the most of your appointment and leave with a clearer understanding of what comes next.

1. Make a list of your symptoms, current medications and medical history.
2. Complete paperwork before the appointment if your provider offers online forms.
3. Prepare a list of questions in order of importance.
4. If you have a health plan, verify that your provider is in-network, understand your plan benefits and bring your medical ID card.

2. During Your Appointment — Communicate Effectively

Open, honest communication helps your care team better understand your needs and support you well.

1. Describe your primary health concerns and symptoms with full transparency.
2. If your health care provider’s explanation is too technical to understand, ask them to explain things in simpler terms.
3. Ask questions to understand which medications are prescribed, the dosage, potential side effects and whether a generic medication is allowed.
4. Bring a trusted family member or friend if you need extra support.
5. Ask what the next steps are. Should you schedule a follow-up appointment? Is your provider recommending any tests or procedures? Do you need to see a specialist?

3. After Your Appointment — Follow Up and Stay Organized

Your role in your care doesn’t end when the appointment is over. Following through, staying organized and asking questions when needed can help you feel more prepared and supported as you move forward.

1. Stick to your care plan after the appointment, including medications, recovery instructions, dietary changes or other recommended actions.
2. Follow up with any next steps requested by your health care provider, such as making another appointment or getting test results.
3. Maintain organized records of your medical history, including health provider names, appointment dates, medications and procedures.
4. Don’t hesitate to request a second opinion if you’ve received a serious, life-threatening or rare diagnosis, or if you have no improvement after treatment.
5. If you have a complex health condition, you may benefit from having a health care advocate.
6. Find ways to take control of medical bills.

Support for Your Health Care Journey

If you’re looking for a health plan rooted in biblical values, GuideStone^® plans offer Member Experience Specialists who can help you navigate your care with confidence.

If you already have a GuideStone health plan, you can explore resources and tips tailored to your life stage in the GuideStone Member Journey. For more information, contact us at Insurance@GuideStone.org or 1-844-INS-GUIDE (1-844-467-4843), Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT.

GuideStone welcomes the opportunity to share this general information. However, this article is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.