As I’ve sat back this past week and watched medical professionals behaving inappropriately on the internet and things happening in response I feel like as one myself there are a few things I need to make very clear. I don’t claim to know everything nor am I able to give specific medical advice but there are a few rules of thumb that ANY respectable health care provider should follow and inform their patients of and they are this:
1. No one can tell you what to do with your body but you. YOUR body YOUR choice.
2. A white coat does not mean you automatically trust. You are the number one investor in your health and therefore the responsibility falls on you. Get second, third opinions. You hire them. You can walk out at any time. They work for you, if you aren’t happy with the care you’re receiving, find a HCP that’s more aligned with your beliefs.
3. You can absolutely, 100% of the time SAY NO. Something doesn’t sit well, say no. Need to do more research to come to your own conclusion. Say no.
4. THERE IS NO ONE SIZE FITS ALL. The end. Read that again.
5. It is your job as a parent to keep your kids healthy and safe. That means educating yourself so you can advocate for them, while working alongside a trusted HCP. Your relationship with any HCP should feel like a partnership.
6. GO WITH YOUR GUT. I learned to rely on mine as a nurse and I can honestly say it has never failed me. Your intuition is more reliable than you think!
7. Medical professionals should be LISTENING to mothers + fathers. We know you all are our most reliable source for information. We believe you!
8. NEVER make fun of a patient. For anything. No exceptions. We treat all human beings as individuals deserving of compassion and understanding and the best care regardless of circumstances or personal beliefs.
We as a society have great impact on the way medical professionals behave. Demand better. Seek doctors that work with you in a way that empowers you. This is how we change the system, slowly, over time. You dictate the kind of care you receive. Recognize that you are worthy of being heard and respected. No set of letters following a name gives anyone authority over you. Period.
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