Maximizing time with a physician
People in Illinois who have medical concerns should make sure that their appointments with their physicians are long enough to have their medical concerns addressed. According to health care professionals at Saint Vincent’s Healthcare and Billings Clinic, there are certain things patients can do to get the time they need with their physicians and to make the most of that time.
It is suggested that patients remain focused and detail the symptoms for which they scheduled the appointment. If there are other issues that have to be addressed, patients should not hesitate to request a follow-up appointment so that those issues can be properly addressed.
Record-keeping is also an important part of patients’ time with their physicians. They should maintain a log that details what medications they are being prescribed and their latest vital signs. If the physicians provide education material for the patients, it should also be included in the log.
Vigilance and advocating on one’s own behalf are other important parts of making the most of time with a physician. Individuals should be assertive when speaking of their symptoms and treatment.
If patients believe that they are not receiving the care that they need or their physicians appear not to have the time to properly address their health issue, it may be time for them to consider looking for medical assistance elsewhere. However, they should be prepared for the possibility that it may take time to locate someone who will listen to their concerns and who will focus on addressing the causes of their condition and not just the symptoms.
Victims of medical malpractice may have legal recourse. An attorney who practices medical malpractice law may hold physicians and hospitals financially liable for instances of failure to diagnose, surgical errors, medication errors and other types of medical negligence.