Isn't it about time we all made resolutions we can keep? And no - I'm not going to suggest you give up your favorite foods, or walk six miles a week, cut up your credit cards or put away half your paycheck into your retirement savings...
Instead, here are five New Years Resolutions each of us can keep that will make our bodies and our wallets healthier:
- Be Skeptical - Part I: If you receive a new diagnosis this year, or if your doctor recommends a new treatment, then double check the details before you commit. If you are diagnosed, ask "what else can it be"? If a new drug or a surgery, or any other form of treatment is recommended, then do your own research to learn about prognoses or side effects or warnings. Bottom line -- take responsibility for deciding whether or not to follow through.
- Be Skeptical - Part II: If you find information on the Internet or in the news media, don't believe what you see or hear blindly. Instead, look behind the scenes. Read between the lines. Be sure websites are credible.
- Adhere to treatment decisions: As long as you and your doctor have agreed on a treatment (see #1 above) then it's up to you to follow through. If you are supposed to take a daily cholesterol drug - then do it! If you are supposed to show up for physical therapy - then do it! It's unrealistic to expect that your health will improve if you don't follow through on your end of the deal.
- Compile your medical history: Begin asking for copies of your medical records each time you exit an appointment. Gather old records and set up an organized system for keeping track of them. You can do this on paper, on your computer or online - but do it now, before you need them and you are too sick to get the information together.
- Double check your medical records for errors: And if you find errors, do something about them. Don't leave yourself open to insurance rejections or medical identity theft. The reputation you save may be your own!
To all my readers - thanks for a great year in 2009. Like many of you, I'm looking forward to 2010 and advances in patient empowerment. I also look forward to your comments and ideas as we go along. I think I have the smartest website visitors on the Internet!
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