For many women, preparing for a medical appointment can feel overwhelming. But visits with a health care provider are a great way for women to advocate for their health and take charge of their well-being.
Darcy J. Spurgeon, PA-C, Family Medicine Physician Assistant with Riverside Primary Care Kiln Creek, has a special interest in women’s health. She says being a family medicine provider allows her to educate and encourage women to take charge of their health care and make healthy choices.
“I believe in empowering my patients to make informed choices,” PA Spurgeon says. “I understand that each person has unique health goals, and I’m committed to working together to support them in achieving those goals.”
She says there are five ways women can approach their next medical appointment confidently.
1. Know your health history
Family history plays an important role in your risk for certain conditions. By understanding your family health history — and sharing that with your health care provider — you can develop a more complete health picture.
“Your family health history is also an important piece of information that helps your provider recommend important screening and preventive tests,” PA Spurgeon says.
2. Be open and honest
There’s no reason to hold anything back from your health care provider. They can give better care when they have more information about your health and any health changes you’ve experienced.
And don’t let embarrassing symptoms keep you from sharing. Your provider has likely seen or heard it before.
“I can’t help you to the fullest extent if I don’t have all the information,” PA Spurgeon says. “I encourage women to see me as a partner in their care. Tell me everything — from how you feel physically and emotionally to what you’re doing that could be helpful or harmful to your health. Together, we can devise a plan to improve your overall well-being.”
3. Keep a running list of questions
You may have questions swirling in your head before a medical appointment. And, if you’re like many women, you have probably left a medical appointment with questions unanswered.
Keep a running list of questions and bring it to your next appointment to ensure you leave with all the answers you need.
Find a way that works best for you to record and store your questions. If pen and paper is your style, keep a notebook with you. If you prefer a tech-friendly approach, consider using a note-taking app on your phone.
4. Know your numbers
If you get regular check-ups, you may have a good understanding of your health based on some key markers. These include:
- Blood pressure
- Blood sugar
- Cholesterol
- Weight
You can monitor your blood pressure and weight between visits. If your health care provider suggests it, you may also need to do regular blood sugar checks at home.
Beyond these numbers, there are several other things to keep track of. Consider using apps, health wearables or journals to track things like exercise, sleep patterns and stress.
5. Ask for what you need
PA Spurgeon says women should never leave a medical visit confused about a diagnosis or treatment recommendation.
“If something isn’t clear to you, ask for clarification,” she says. “It’s our job as health care providers to help you understand.”
It’s also important to speak up if you feel your provider isn’t hearing your concerns. Don’t be afraid to ask for additional tests or even seek a second opinion.
When you need a primary care provider, contact Riverside Health. Schedule an appointment through your MyChart account or call 757-534-5352.
