Change4shawn Advocacy Tips & Tools
Feel like your symptoms aren’t taken seriously?
“Tell me all the things it could be, and how you have ruled those out.” This request is called a differential diagnosis.
Being denied a request or service?
“Please note in my chart that you are denying this service/request.”
Don’t feel safe or comfortable with your doctor?
“I request that you are removed from my service. Please send in another doctor/nurse.”
If your request for a new doctor or nurse is denied.
Leave and go somewhere else if applicable, even if you require medical transport. Call an ambulance and ask to be taken to another medical facility.
Being ignored by your doctor/nurse?
Keep meticulous notes on your care & symptoms.
Can’t get an appointment within a week of your symptoms or concern?
Call the advice nurse & “request an emergency appointment.”
Hospital stay required?
Keep a loved one with you 24/7 or as often as possible. If you have a loved one with you, tell your care team that your loved one has permission to make decisions, access records, and be told information regarding your care. If you are a caretaker of a loved one, have this written up and notarized right away.
If you have Kaiser, you can login into KP. org to see doctors notes and your medical records. If you do not have Kaiser, ask your doctor if there is a patients portal online.
If you feel uncomfortable/disagree with the suggested treatment plan, diagnosis, or the doctors report, request a second opinion. This request should never be denied, so if it is, leave immediately and go to another facility.
*ALWAYS ASK QUESTIONS!*