Going to the doctor’s office is not number one on my list of favorite things to do. That might cause you to limp a little bit. But I know that when I finally make the commitment, I have to be mentally prepared to assert myself aggressively. Learning how to advocate for yourself in front of your doctor is essential, especially when the conversation revolves around weight loss rather than addressing actual health concerns.
Unfortunately, visiting a doctor can increase your stress and anxiety levels. This applies not only to straight-size people, but also to plus-size people. As a plus-size black woman, I have experienced racial bias, weight discrimination, fat phobia It may affect my treatment. All of this is adding fuel to the fire and increasing my anxiety tenfold.
In fact, there is even a term for the phenomenon of increased anxiety during doctor visits: white coat syndrome/hypertension. According to Harvard Health PublishingThe name comes from the fact that doctors traditionally wear white coats. Anticipating a “white coat” or doctor’s visit can make patients feel anxious and stressed. As a result, the patient’s blood pressure spikes in the exam room.
As if white coat syndrome wasn’t enough, living in a plus-size body means having to firmly and strategically assert yourself while in the exam room. I don’t want to leave without proper treatment. Knowing how to overcome fatphobia, sexism, racial bias, and medical bias can help you get the right treatment.
Let’s talk about how to advocate for yourself while in the doctor’s office, especially if you want to focus solely on weight loss.
How to advocate for yourself to your doctor if weight matters
skip scale
This may come as a shock, but we do not allow you to weigh yourself at the beginning of your appointment. Patients have the right to informed consent and can refuse procedures that are not medically necessary, such as weighing in certain circumstances.
Articles about withina treatment facility, shares several ways to refuse weighing.
- Just say “no” without explanation, they should respect your needs
- “I do not want to be weighed unless it is medically necessary. Please explain why it is medically necessary to provide informed consent.”
- “I refuse to weigh you today.”
- “I don’t feel comfortable having my weight measured, so I decline.”
- “No, thank you, I don’t want to weigh myself today.”
With practice, you’ll find it easier to advocate for yourself in the doctor’s office, and uncomfortable moments like refusing to be weighed will soon become easier.
Have a list ready
Research published in science direct We discussed how a patient’s lack of preparation before an appointment can impede communication with healthcare providers.
A lot happens while you’re in the doctor’s office, and things can move quickly. Making a list is a good way to help advocate for yourself, especially if your health care provider is only interested in conversations about calorie restriction or increased physical activity. There are a few things to remember.
- Lists help you stay organized. Write down your symptoms and any medications you are currently taking.
- A list will help you stay focused: Write down any questions you have for your doctor and how they relate to your current medical needs.
- Bring a list of tracked patterns and occurrences as data and evidence
- Write down the phrase, “If I were a smaller patient, what tests would I perform?”
bring a friend
Research published in BMC Gerontology found that medical visit companions play an important role in advocating for patients’ rights, helping them understand treatment plans, and coordinating follow-up care. The study goes on to say that only 15% of patients remember information incorrectly or not at all. Please select a doctor., medical blog.
Bringing a support person along can help you remember important information during your visit and give you the courage to ask important questions. It always helps to bring someone you love. I feel more secure when I have someone I know in my corner. Remind your loved one:
- request documents
- take notes
- ask a question
- be cooperative
go shopping
Why do we keep beating a dead horse? Sometimes finding your own tribe or community is the best option. If I see the first signs of fatphobia, indifference or disregard for my concerns, I will immediately (to my convenience) discontinue service with that provider. I make sure to let my doctor know that I am a paying customer and that we are working together in the best interest of my health.
You can also look for a Health at Every Size (HAES) provider or a weight-neutral doctor who focuses on your overall health, not just your weight.
I will advocate for myself by pointing out discrimination and plan accordingly. Full transparency here, finding a good medical team is a job! But you deserve it. Read reviews, ask for referrals, and make calls. You might be surprised to find a body positivity provider in your area.
Red flags to look out for when seeing a doctor
Not all unpleasant moments of visiting a doctor are harmless. In some cases, what feels “off” may actually be off. If the conversation focuses too much on weight loss, it can lead to missed diagnoses, delayed treatment, and unnecessary frustration.
There are some red flags to be aware of.
Symptoms are ignored without testing
If you raise a concern and your health care provider immediately blames it on your weight without ordering tests, imaging, or further evaluation, that’s a red flag. Thorough research is required, not assumptions.
Weight loss is prescribed as the only solution
Weight may be one of the factors that determines your overall health, but it shouldn’t be the only recommendation for every problem. If your doctor defaults to “losing weight” without discussing other treatments, options, or root causes, it may be time to push for more comprehensive care.
Your concerns will be minimized or suspended
If you feel rushed, talked over, or your questions ignored, that’s not quality care. They need to feel heard, respected, and included in decisions about their bodies.
Reluctance to run tests or consider alternatives
If you ask, “What tests would you run if I were a smaller patient?” and your answer changes or you’re confused, that’s important information. Advocacy sometimes means asking difficult questions.
Leaving feeling confused, ignored, or unsupported
Trust your intuition. If you always leave your appointments feeling worse than when you arrived, it may be time to consider a new provider who meets your needs and respects your past experience.
easy reminder
If any of these occur, it doesn’t automatically mean the provider is “bad”, but the pattern is important. You have the right to receive thorough and respectful care that is based on your actual health concerns, not your assumptions about your body.
practice makes perfect
After all, advocating for yourself in front of doctors takes practice. It’s a skill that gets better the more you do it. Learning how to advocate for yourself in front of your doctor takes practice, but it’s one of the most powerful tools you have to protect your health and ensure you receive the right treatment. So hold your breath and remember that you are not alone. You understand this!
This is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified health care professional for guidance specific to your health condition.
Source: The Curvy Fashionista – thecurvyfashionista.com
