We’re Here for You - Be Involved in Your VA Health Care
Have you ever thought about what you want to discuss with your health provider before your appointment? Perhaps who had questions about a medication or a particular test, or maybe you wanted information on managing stress? If so, the Veterans Health Library (VHL) can be an important resource to help you be more involved in your health care.
The VHL provides you, your family members, and caregivers with 24/7 online access to important health-related information. Website topics include living well, diseases and conditions, tests and treatments, medications, rehabilitation, behavioral health, and how to live with chronic conditions. The searchable site also include links to other Veteran health-related resources.
Being an active participant in your health is very important. However, sometimes it’s difficult to remember what questions to ask during a visit with your provider. Try to remember “Ask Me 3,” which stands for three questions you should ask yourself as you prepare for your appointment: What is my main health concern or issue? What do I need to do to resolve it? Why is it important for me to do this? The VHL site is a great place to help you answer some of these important questions before and after your visit.
Getting ready ahead of time for your appointment is a vital step to improving your health. Here are some tips you can follow before, during, and after your visit with your physician. These tips can help you and your provider work together to improve your quality of life.
· Write down your questions and concerns. Make a list of your medications and any supplements that you take. If you are unsure about what the medication is for, why not look it up on VHL? Then ask questions or voice your concerns during your appointment.
· Make sure you have someone that can help you remember what you and your team discuss. Share your health questions, problems, and concerns with your team at the beginning of your visit. Tell your team about your needs. Be involved in the decision-making process by working with your team to create a treatment plan that meets your goals.
· Ask your team to clarify anything that’s confusing and speak up if you have concerns or think something is wrong. Remember, this is your health and your time!
If you would like more information about the VHL, please visit the library at https://www.veteranshealthlibrary.va.gov/. For more information about being more involved in health care decisions that affect your, talk to your provider.
Brought to you by Truman VA’s Health Promotion Disease Prevention Committee