Who is in charge?

I was reminded this week by a few people that WE better be in charge of our health and our lives - i.e. "Take control of your health and life before disease does!"

Who knows our bodies better than we do? Who knows our family and loved ones better than we do? Who knows the little things that change that ought to be of concern? Not someone who sees you maybe once year and then only for a short time.

I have nothing against the medical profession. In years past some of my best friends were medical students and/or physicians. But I must admit that as a Psychologist I ran into many who were downright awful! Be that said - yes I do go to see a medical person when I need to but I try to select ones who understand that I am my own best advocate. Thankfully I am very healthy and don't have need for much in the way of medical care - and I give new medical personnel the benefit of the doubt a few times before I switch to new ones.

When I most recently learned that contacting my medical provider was a most major problem- I switched insurers and providers and am happy with the change. I say that knowing that many people are afraid to make the switch for their own reasons and that this may be legitimate. But even if you stay with one - make sure you are getting the care YOU need - ask questions..make sure they spend time with you answering those questions....

And remember that most physicians still know little about nutrition and prevention - in my opinion medical schools are excellent for training in illness care - not in stay healthy care.....