We at Family Health Center are committed to getting you healthy and helping you stay that way, \but you’re a key player in making that happen.

     Speak up if you have questions or concerns. You have a right to question anyone who is involved with your care.

            Make sure that someone, such as Dr Roberson, is in charge of your care. This is especially important if you have many health problems or are in the hospital.

             Make sure that all health professionals involved in your care have important health information about you. Do not assume that everyone knows everything they need to. Be open, honest and thorough about your symptoms and concerns. Write down your questions and concerns and bring those to your doctors visit.

              If you have a test, do not assume that no news is good news. Call and ask about the results.

              Learn about your condition and treatments by asking your doctor and by using other reliable sources. For example, treatment recommendations based on the latest scientific evidence are available from the National Guideline Clearinghouse at www.guideline.gov, www.healthcentral.com or www.webmd.com.e at Family Health Center are committed to getting you healthy and helping you stay that way, but you’re a key player in making that happen. Here are suggestions from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality that all patients should follow:

If you have questions, call and ask.

If your symptoms get worse, or if you have problems with your medicine, call.

If your doctor said you should see a specialist, make an appointment or be sure we have set one up for you.

If you are not improving as expected, get unexpected symptoms or have any problems; call or return.

Be sure to keep your follow up visits as planned.

Make sure that all of your doctors know about everything you are taking. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, and dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbal medications.

Make sure your doctor knows about any allergies and adverse reactions you have had to medicines.

When medicine is prescribed for you, ask the following questions:What is the medicine for?

How should I take it, and for how long?

What side effects are likely? What do I do if they occur?

Is this medicine safe to take with other medicines or dietary supplements I am taking?

What food, drink, or activities should I avoid while taking this medicine?

When you pick up your medicine, ask: Is this the medicine that my doctor prescribed?

Ask your pharmacist for the best device to measure your liquid medicine. Special devices, like marked syringes, help people measure the right dose. Being told how to use the devices helps even more.

Ask for written information about the side effects your medicine can cause. If you know what might happen, you will be better prepared if it does. If something unexpected happens, you can report the problem right away and get help before it gets worse.

Choose a hospital at which many patients have had the procedure or surgery you need.

When you are discharged, ask your doctor to explain the home treatment plan. This includes learning about your medicines and finding out when you can get back to your regular activities.

If you are having surgery, make sure that you, your doctor, and your surgeon agree and are clear on exactly what will be done.

Ask a family member or friend to be there with you and to be your advocate (someone who can help get things done and speak up for you if you can not). Even if you think you do not need help now, you might need it later.