What Should I Ask My Doctor? (And Pics of Trailblazers:)

Susan McKinney Steward was the first black female doctor in the state of New York and the third in the nation. She started a successful medical practice in Brooklyn, New York, serving a variety of people.

When is the last time you went to the doctor for a check up? We are all guilty of being very busy and putting other people or responsibilities before our own well being, but the truth is NONE of us can afford to put aside our own health. Truthfully speaking everyone should go to the doctor at least 1 time a year for a check up. But once you get to the doctor, what are you going to talk about? Firstly, there is no need to be nervous, embarrassed or shy when you visit the doctor. Feel empowered to take charge of your health by asking the really tough questions. That thing that you're wondering about, yeah... ask us that!

Doctor Patricia Bath, an ophthalmologist from New York, was living in Los Angeles when she received her first patent, becoming the first African American female doctor to patent a medical invention. Patricia Bath's patent (#4,744,360) was for a method for removing cataract lenses that transformed eye surgery by using a laser device making the procedure more accurate.

Some Tips 

• If you take any medicines, bring a list of your meds with you -include the dose and frequency.
• Bring a notepad with questions that you thought to ask before your visit.
• If it makes you feel more comfortable, bring a friend, spouse or your adult child with you. They can help you remember what the doctor said once you get home and ask the questions you may have forgot to ask.

Now that you are at the doctor's office, what are you going to ask her? 

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has come up with 10 questions we should all keep in mind depending on the situation.

1. What is the test for?
2. How many times have you done this procedure?
3. When will I get the results?
4. Why do I need this treatment?
5. Are there any alternatives?
6. What are the possible complications?
7. Which hospital is best for my needs?
8. How do you spell the name of that drug?
9. Are there any side effects?
10. Will this medicine interact with medicines that I'm already taking?

Susie King Taylor was a regimental nurse with the Union army during the Civil War. She was famous for using both conventional and folk techniques in helping the sick and wounded, and using the same techniques for her own health.

There is also a Health Question Builder that can help you come up with questions based on your specific medical needs. Remember, be empowered, take charge of your health and ask ask away!!!
 If you have family members or friends who go to the doctor often, share this post with them by copying it from here:  http://ohemaasmd.blogspot.com/2013/03/what-should-i-ask-my-doctor-and-pics-of.html