Empowered Patients: Build Your Team
Even if we are alone or have few people in our world, with some thought and assertiveness, we can all build a team to support us during serious illness.
Build your medical team
Have thoughtful, purposeful and assertive conversations with your physicians and healthcare team about being included in all planning for your future health. This is easier with some doctors than others and a light approach until they get to know you might be necessary. Let them know your values and beliefs for future health care. In short, let them know that you are an engaged, informed and empowered patient and that they are a part of your team.
There is often a lot that needs to be done when you are seriously ill or injured and many hands can make lighter work.
Name a Representative
Your Representative will have the legal authority to receive information about you to assist you while you are capable and act as you when you are incapable. See the article on Advance Care Planning.
Name an Enduring Power of Attorney
While you are ill, bills will need to be paid – and, possibly benefits applied for.
Transportation
You may not be able to drive and volunteers to help you get to and from appointments and treatments will be helpful.
Social Network
Being seriously ill or injured can be socially isolating. As the patient or care partner, reach out to friends and family regularly and let them know how they can support you, even if that is just regular visits.
