Here
is some sage advice on going to the doctor from one of our Orchid
contributors, Annette Lauber of Raleigh.
Becoming
a Partner in Care
Thinking
ahead
I
always ask if there is accessible parking and how far it is from
the building.
I
suggest to the receptionist/nurse that it will probably take more
time so they should schedule to accommodate that. I ask if there
is a better time for them since the appointment may take longer.
I
talk with the nurse first to clarify my questions for the doctor.
I have found that the nurse can be key to good communication with
the doctor, especially if you are calling with follow-up questions
or need the doctor to call you back.
Accessibility
In
the waiting room, I look for space to maneuver and a place to sit
in my wheelchair so I am not blocking pathways and others don't
have to walk over me.
I
tell the receptionist that I use a wheelchair and will need assistance
in the exam room.
The
doctor
The
doctor always asks what medications I take. I include vitamins.
If you're not sure that you will remember, take your medicines with
you.
Ask
what hospitals the doctor uses because they can affect your insurance.
Develop
a partnership with your doctor and nurses. Good communication is
essential; it's the key to good health.
It
is always a good idea to get a second opinion, especially if you
have any concerns. A doctor shouldn't have problems with a second
opinion³that is your prerogative.
Find
out the policies of your insurance company on second opinions. For
some surgeries it may be required.
Responsibility
You
have to do your part to stay healthy. That means watching your diet,
staying active, getting regular check-ups, and not ignoring changes
in your health.
More
about Annette Lauber
Career
I
had to choose a college based on accessibility. There were only
two on the east coast that met my needs. I was a Special Education
teacher for 12 years and worked as staff development specialist
at Murdoch Center in Butner for 5 years. Now, I am a funding specialist
with the NC Assistive Technology Program, working with individuals
and groups to identify funding sources for assistive technology.
Community
Activities
I
am active in my church; I work with high school kids teaching confirmation
classes.
Attitude
My
disability doesn't determine who I am. Having the disability determines
how I go through the world, not what I do.
Biggest
Challenge
Figuring
out how I'm going to make my disability work in my everyday life
so that it doesn't stop me from doing something I want to do. It
has never kept me from -ultimately doing what I wanted to do.
Biggest
Accomplishment
Making
a life for myself that I really enjoy - work that I believe in doing
and enjoy doing. I've got a really good life.
See
also ...
Going
to the Doctor
Educate
your doctor
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