So, my curvaceous best friends, why do you need to know the best way to advocate for yourself at the doctor’s office? Going to the doctor can be a nerve-wracking experience for a variety of reasons, but for plus-size patients, the anxiety level is often on an entirely different level.
Even though you’re there for help, it can feel like all they’re looking at is your weight. When you tell them about your headaches, they suggest you lose a few pounds. It’s frustrating and disheartening, especially when you know that weight doesn’t equate to health.
Knowing the best way to advocate for yourself at the doctor’s office is key
No one wants to feel ignored or misunderstood. The constant anxiety that your concerns will be ignored and blamed on your weight can be overwhelming. And if you’re a plus-size person of color, the situation can be even worse. The intersection of weight bias and racial bias creates a double whammy that can make every doctor’s appointment feel like a fight. Plus, American Medical Association They even point out that BMI is rooted in racism.
For example, I am half Black and half Japanese, and I have been overweight my whole life. My parents taught me from an early age to choose healthcare providers who understand me, reassure me, and listen to me. As a result, most of my doctors, including my mental health providers, were people of color, specifically Black and Asian women. I quickly learned that if my doctor didn’t look like me or at least know some of my struggles, I would leave the appointment having accomplished nothing. Additionally, for any new doctors, I always bring along a list of my blood pressure (yes, it’s that serious!) and proof that I exercise at least four times a week.
But how do you advocate for yourself in these situations? And just to be clear, if you’re not feeling well, you don’t have to advocate for yourself to get proper treatment. Here are some of the best ways to advocate for yourself in the hospital.
1. Get ready
Before your appointment, write down your symptoms, questions, and concerns. This will help you stay focused and ensure you cover everything that’s important. Being organized will also help you control the conversation.
2. Speak up
Apologies in advance to anyone who wants to avoid confrontation, but the following tip is crucial: Speak up. If your doctor starts to focus on your weight instead of your symptoms, bring the conversation back on track. Start gently and say, “Yes, I understand that weight can be a factor, but [insert specific symptom] Today is your appointment, and you have the right to discuss your health at your convenience.
3. Bring a friend
Being with friends and family helps you feel supported and that your concerns are taken seriously. They help you remember what matters and speak up when you feel ignored. For example, I got seriously ill in 2018 and my weight had absolutely nothing to do with my illness, but my rheumatologist strongly disagreed, despite the medical facts. Luckily, my dad showed up for my next appointment because by that time I was too sick to continue arguing with the doctor. And let’s just say that day added to the list of reasons why I’m grateful to my dad.
4. Seek alternatives
If your doctor suggests a treatment plan that doesn’t work for you, ask for alternatives. For example, if you’re advised to lose weight before addressing your immediate concerns, ask if there are other treatments you should consider.
5. Find the right doctor
Sometimes the best way to advocate for yourself is to find a new doctor. Look for one who specializes in plus-size patients or who has a reputation for being size-tolerant. Don’t settle for a doctor who doesn’t respect you and your concerns. Having a medical team that supports you makes a big difference. HAES Directory by Asdais an advocacy organization that raises awareness about obesity bias in healthcare and advocates for healthcare to be obesity-aware. Health at Every Size® Check out our “Approach” to help you find your ideal provider.
It’s refreshing and empowering when doctors, nurses, and specialists actually listen to you. They focus on your symptoms, not just your body size, and work with you to find solutions that make sense for you. A good medical team respects you as a person, not just a number on a scale.
Speaking up at the doctor’s office is essential, especially for plus-size people. It can help reduce anxiety about doctor’s visits and ensure you receive the care and respect you deserve. And if you can find a supportive medical team, all of your efforts will be worth it. So remember, the best way to speak up at the doctor’s office starts with believing in your right to be heard and respected.
Source: The Curvy Fashionista – thecurvyfashionista.com
