1. © 2017 Relevate Health Group. All Rights Reserved.

2. Take Charge of Your Health
Make your health a priority
Be your own advocate
No one has more control over your health than you do. When you make your health a priority, you feel a greater sense of control and are more comfortable making healthcare decisions. Today, we are going to talk about a few tips on how you can stay well by taking action to “own” your own health.

3. Work as a Team
Partner with your doctor to focus on your health and prevent disease
Unlike specialists, who focus on treating specific diseases, your primary care physician works to keep the whole you healthy over your entire life. You know your body and your needs, concerns, and healthcare wishes. Your doctor has medical expertise. Together, as a team, you can focus on staying healthy and preventing disease.

4. Be an Educated Consumer
Learn about your condition and treatment options
Participate in support groups or online forums
If you’ve been diagnosed with a health problem, learn as much as you are able about your condition and the treatment options before you make any important decisions. Consider participating in disease-specific support groups or online forums where you can learn from others who have similar concerns and challenges.

5. Ask Questions Make a list of questions before appointments
Time with your doctor is limited so make the best of it. Prepare a list of questions before each appointment. There is no such thing as a stupid question. If you don’t understand something, keep asking until you do understand. It helps to ask open-ended questions. Instead of, “Do I need this treatment?” ask, “If I decide not to accept this treatment, what will happen to me?” or, “Are there other treatments, and if so, can you tell me about them?”

6. Visit Your Doctor
Ask about age- and risk-appropriate screenings and immunizations
Keep up with wellness visits
Keep up with appropriate wellness visits and preventive measures.
Ask your doctor which screenings and immunizations are right for you based on your age and risk factors.

7. Get Healthy Eat right Maintain healthy weight Don’t smoke
Get enough rest
Get healthy
7/10 deaths are due to chronic diseases, largely preventable with a healthy lifestyle.
Eat right, maintain healthy weight, exercise, don’t smoke, and get a good night’s sleep.

8. Seek a Second Opinion
Get another opinion before undergoing surgery or treatment
One out of 20 Americans is a victim of outpatient diagnostic errors, according to the Association for Healthcare and Research Quality. Don’t be afraid to seek another opinion before undergoing surgery or beginning treatment for a serious medical problem.

9. Take Action Don’t wait until you’re sick
Everyday decisions affect long-term health
Look out for your health starting TODAY

10. For more information Community Memorial Family Health Centers
Munnsville (315)
Morrisville (315)
Hamilton (315)
Waterville (315)
Cazenovia (315)
Sources: