In recognition of World Read Aloud Day this excerpt from Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide is available for your listening. Chapter 3, The Doctor Visit: History and Physical http://bit.ly/fXIuZY
Take charge of your health care with health literacy. Reading and knowing as much as you can about your health keeps you informed. This allows for you to get what is best for you. Best health!
Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta health book. Mostrar todas las entradas
Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta health book. Mostrar todas las entradas
miércoles, 15 de febrero de 2017
lunes, 31 de octubre de 2016
Part 1: Basic Diagnostic Health Tests
These basic health tests can help your doctor with your diagnosis and treatment. Know what they are so you know that you are getting it when it is needed. These can be baseline, and routine screening tests as well.
The EKG, also known as an electrocardiogram, gives information about your heart. It is usually done by the primary care doctor as part of a routine physical, especially if heart disease runs in your family. Typically, this test is done on anyone complaining of chest pain or discomfort. Small patches with adhesive on the back are placed on the chest, arms, and legs while the patient lies on her or his back. The electrode patches are attached to the wire cables running from the EKG machine. The heart’s electrical activity is recorded on paper. By looking at this “heart tracing” graph, the doctor can tell if there are any abnormalities like irregular heartbeats (called arrhythmias), damage to heart muscle from a heart attack, poor blood flow to the heart that causes chest pain (called angina), and heart enlargement. The doctor has been trained to know what changes or abnormalities need further testing, treatment, or hospitalization.
The X-ray test uses small amounts of radiation through an X-ray machine to make pictures. It can be done on almost any part of the body to check out a patient’s symptom, and/or the doctor’s findings during the physical exam. Many primary care doctors have X-ray equipment in the office. If not, the patient may be referred to a special office (diagnostic center) that performs X-rays or to a local hospital radiology department.
X-rays are most commonly done on the chest, abdomen, back, joints, and extremities (arms and legs) and are done either with the patient lying down or standing up, depending on the part of the body being checked. After you have been positioned, the X-ray film cassette is placed in the machine next to the body part being X-rayed. The radiation from the machine will pass through the body part being X-rayed onto the film. The radiology technician (the person who operates the X-ray machine) will then move to a closed space in the same room and press the buttons to take the X-ray.
During this test it is important that a protective lead shield apron be placed over the reproductive parts of the body. Usually the technician will need to take more than one view, and so you will be asked to move a certain body part or turn a certain way. Different X-ray views give the radiologist (the doctor who reviews and interprets X-rays) a more complete view of the body part. Using the information from this test and the information from your history and physical, your doctor will be able to determine the proper diagnosis (what the problem is), treatment, and/or more tests, if needed.
There is some concern that the radiation from X-rays may be harmful. Studies have shown that small amounts of radiation are not linked with an increased risk of health problems. Over the years the amount of radiation used for X-rays has been decreased.
If you are uninsured, these tests are still available at affordable rates. Check and compare prices by phone or Internet to find lowest prices. Your healthcare provider may also be able to direct you to a clinic, hospital or testing center that fits your budget. Some providers also have payment plans that allow payment over time. Make your own healthcare plan affordable rather than go without. Best health!
The EKG, also known as an electrocardiogram, gives information about your heart. It is usually done by the primary care doctor as part of a routine physical, especially if heart disease runs in your family. Typically, this test is done on anyone complaining of chest pain or discomfort. Small patches with adhesive on the back are placed on the chest, arms, and legs while the patient lies on her or his back. The electrode patches are attached to the wire cables running from the EKG machine. The heart’s electrical activity is recorded on paper. By looking at this “heart tracing” graph, the doctor can tell if there are any abnormalities like irregular heartbeats (called arrhythmias), damage to heart muscle from a heart attack, poor blood flow to the heart that causes chest pain (called angina), and heart enlargement. The doctor has been trained to know what changes or abnormalities need further testing, treatment, or hospitalization.
The X-ray test uses small amounts of radiation through an X-ray machine to make pictures. It can be done on almost any part of the body to check out a patient’s symptom, and/or the doctor’s findings during the physical exam. Many primary care doctors have X-ray equipment in the office. If not, the patient may be referred to a special office (diagnostic center) that performs X-rays or to a local hospital radiology department.
X-rays are most commonly done on the chest, abdomen, back, joints, and extremities (arms and legs) and are done either with the patient lying down or standing up, depending on the part of the body being checked. After you have been positioned, the X-ray film cassette is placed in the machine next to the body part being X-rayed. The radiation from the machine will pass through the body part being X-rayed onto the film. The radiology technician (the person who operates the X-ray machine) will then move to a closed space in the same room and press the buttons to take the X-ray.
During this test it is important that a protective lead shield apron be placed over the reproductive parts of the body. Usually the technician will need to take more than one view, and so you will be asked to move a certain body part or turn a certain way. Different X-ray views give the radiologist (the doctor who reviews and interprets X-rays) a more complete view of the body part. Using the information from this test and the information from your history and physical, your doctor will be able to determine the proper diagnosis (what the problem is), treatment, and/or more tests, if needed.
There is some concern that the radiation from X-rays may be harmful. Studies have shown that small amounts of radiation are not linked with an increased risk of health problems. Over the years the amount of radiation used for X-rays has been decreased.
If you are uninsured, these tests are still available at affordable rates. Check and compare prices by phone or Internet to find lowest prices. Your healthcare provider may also be able to direct you to a clinic, hospital or testing center that fits your budget. Some providers also have payment plans that allow payment over time. Make your own healthcare plan affordable rather than go without. Best health!
viernes, 29 de agosto de 2014
Family Health: Guide Yourself to Quality Healthcare
Consumer demand, new drugs and medical technologies, litigation, higher insurance premiums, and other factors have all been fueling rising healthcare costs. At the same time, many patients justifiably feel that medical services have become increasingly impersonal. Too often, quality attention from the proverbial family doctor has been replaced by the “assembly line” approach of faceless bureaucracies. How is a patient to successfully navigate this modern maze of providers, specialists, insurers, and so forth and at the same time get the attention they need to maintain personal (not to mention financial) health?
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
offers an overview of the healthcare system from a different point of view and advises patients on how they can take their health into their own hands by becoming both informed and proactive.
As Dr. Richardson eloquently puts it:
This philosophical perspective is that the patient, insofar as it is possible, needs to take charge of his or her health care self care.
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide is essential knowledge in an easy-to-assimilate large print format bound paperback book (adjustable print on e-books). Readers will walk away from the book with a much clearer idea of what to expect from the healthcare system, and what to do to ensure the preservation of their own health. Best health!
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
offers an overview of the healthcare system from a different point of view and advises patients on how they can take their health into their own hands by becoming both informed and proactive.
As Dr. Richardson eloquently puts it:
In our society we are accustomed to taking a doctor’s word on the state of our medical condition and treatment whether or not we understand it and either without asking any questions or without getting adequate answers to the questions we might pose. Today that might not be a healthy situation. It is necessary to be informed to get the most from your health plan and to get the best medical care from the medical resources available in the healthcare system. By reading this book, you will find out how to take charge of your most important asset—you.
This philosophical perspective is that the patient, insofar as it is possible, needs to take charge of his or her health care self care.
The book is structured in a logical, reader-friendly manner, providing overviews of all the major topics related to healthcare, from effective record keeping to obtaining quality health coverage.
The first step toward taking charge of your health is keeping accurate medical records and a medical diary. Patients are offered a detailed overview of how their doctor visit should go educating readers about all the various aspects of a routine physical or checkup. Patients will recognize whether they are receiving quality, comprehensive care, and will know what they should be getting. The core philosophy is that knowledge offers patients more health options and better health. Subsequent chapters educate patients about the importance of preventive checkups, common medical tests, the various kinds of doctors and specialists, and healthcare quality.Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide is essential knowledge in an easy-to-assimilate large print format bound paperback book (adjustable print on e-books). Readers will walk away from the book with a much clearer idea of what to expect from the healthcare system, and what to do to ensure the preservation of their own health. Best health!
lunes, 28 de julio de 2014
How To Connect With Your Inner Doctor - You
Studies and common sense have shown that
doctors who listen to their patients receive the proper care and diagnosis over
90% of the time. Self care is very important as are routine check ups on yourself. It is time for you to take responsibility for your health. It is time for you to know what your health numbers are. It is time for you to know your medical conditions, risk factors, and family medical history.
Give yourself a medical checkup. Start by writing or typing or recording your medical history - medical conditions, surgery, treatments, family history. Add your medication. Save it. Update it. Add to it. Correct it. Keep it current. Keep a copy in a secure place.
Examine as much of yourself as you can. Look at your skin, hair, nails, eyes, teeth, and every part of your body that is visible to you. Make note of any abnormalities. Make note of any symptoms you have - new, old and ongoing. Go through each body system. Add this information to your medical history.
Add to this your doctors' and health care providers' names, phone number, land address, and email address.
Call your doctor for an appointment for a comprehensive CPE (complete physical exam). Get it done routinely (yearly, every other year, etc. ). Take your information and notes with you on your appointment. Review everything with your doctor. Take notes.
Sign a medical record release to obtain a copy of your medical record from each doctor you see at the time of the visit.
Be sure to schedule a follow-up appointment within a month or less to go over everything with your doctor. Get copies of your information including blood tests, and any other tests as well as medical notes.
Take charge. Care for your health is good health care. Be the healthiest you can be. Best health!
Details on all of the above are explained simply in Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide http://amzn.to/13m51UU
Give yourself a medical checkup. Start by writing or typing or recording your medical history - medical conditions, surgery, treatments, family history. Add your medication. Save it. Update it. Add to it. Correct it. Keep it current. Keep a copy in a secure place.
Examine as much of yourself as you can. Look at your skin, hair, nails, eyes, teeth, and every part of your body that is visible to you. Make note of any abnormalities. Make note of any symptoms you have - new, old and ongoing. Go through each body system. Add this information to your medical history.
Add to this your doctors' and health care providers' names, phone number, land address, and email address.
Call your doctor for an appointment for a comprehensive CPE (complete physical exam). Get it done routinely (yearly, every other year, etc. ). Take your information and notes with you on your appointment. Review everything with your doctor. Take notes.
Sign a medical record release to obtain a copy of your medical record from each doctor you see at the time of the visit.
Be sure to schedule a follow-up appointment within a month or less to go over everything with your doctor. Get copies of your information including blood tests, and any other tests as well as medical notes.
Take charge. Care for your health is good health care. Be the healthiest you can be. Best health!
Details on all of the above are explained simply in Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide http://amzn.to/13m51UU
sábado, 22 de marzo de 2014
Prevention Requires Less Intervention
Prevention and early detection are important for your health and wellness. Routine check ups are shown to improve overall health while requiring less medical intervention and treatments. Done on a "routine" basis means just that - in a consistent manner based on your health profile. As one gets older, or if one has chronic disease they may become more frequent than every few years. As you prepare to see your doctor you will find that Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide is the ideal reference book to inform you about what checkups and tests you may need for prevention intervention.
This Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Award winner informs patients about basic medical care. By reading this how-to reference book you will learn:
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide is on Kindle, and can be borrowed via the Kindle Owner's Lending Library.
This Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Award winner informs patients about basic medical care. By reading this how-to reference book you will learn:
- how to keep a medical diary
- how to get your medical records
- how to document your complete medical history
- what the physical exam should include
- about preventive tests and when to get them
- about tests your doctor orders
- about specialists and other medical providers
- about health care plans and coverage
- how to seek quality health services
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide is on Kindle, and can be borrowed via the Kindle Owner's Lending Library.
miércoles, 8 de agosto de 2012
Health Books: Healing Reading
Reading good health books is a great way to improve your health and well being. The best books help you care for your health and encourage as well as teach. The following books are recommended primarily because they teach you things you can do for yourself that you can incorporate in your lifestyle to make it healthier.
Merck Manual for Health & Aging
by Merck
Savvy Patient Toolkit
by Margo Corbett
Why, Charlie Brown, Why? A Story About What Happens When a Friend Is Very Ill
by Charles M. Schulz
The Empowered Patient
by Elizabeth Cohen
What's Wrong with Me? The Frustrated Patient's Guide to Getting an Accurate Diagnosis
by Lynn M. Dannheisser & Jerry M. Rosenbaum M.D.
YOU: The Owner's Manual
by Mehmet Oz, M.D. & Michael F. Roizen. M.D.
Inner Pulse
by Marc Siegel. M.D.
Healing Back Pain
by John E. Sarno, M.D.
Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
by Mary J. Shomon
New Choices in Natural Healing
by Doug Dollemore & Bill Gottlieb
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
Merck Manual for Health & Aging
by Merck
Savvy Patient Toolkit
by Margo Corbett
Why, Charlie Brown, Why? A Story About What Happens When a Friend Is Very Ill
by Charles M. Schulz
The Empowered Patient
by Elizabeth Cohen
What's Wrong with Me? The Frustrated Patient's Guide to Getting an Accurate Diagnosis
by Lynn M. Dannheisser & Jerry M. Rosenbaum M.D.
YOU: The Owner's Manual
by Mehmet Oz, M.D. & Michael F. Roizen. M.D.
Inner Pulse
by Marc Siegel. M.D.
Healing Back Pain
by John E. Sarno, M.D.
Living Well with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
by Mary J. Shomon
New Choices in Natural Healing
by Doug Dollemore & Bill Gottlieb
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
sábado, 14 de julio de 2012
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide is written for patients by a medical doctor "to inform and educate patients about medical care". Health maintenance, prevention, early detection, and early treatment are the foundation for great health.
This Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Award winner informs patients about
basic medical care. By reading this how-to reference book you will learn:
This Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Award winner informs patients about
basic medical care. By reading this how-to reference book you will learn:
- how to keep a medical diary
- how to get your medical records
- how to document your complete medical history
- what the physical exam should include
- about preventive tests and when to get them
- about tests your doctor orders
- about specialists and other medical providers
- about health care plans and coverage
- how to seek quality health services.
viernes, 6 de enero de 2012
Your Family Doctor
Patient Handbook to Medical Care is the best doctor visit you can have anytime! When you read this book you will feel healthier, wealthier and wiser!
Are you getting the medical care you deserve? Are you getting the right tests? Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide by J. L. Richardson, M.D. lets you know! This book is written for patients by a medical doctor "to inform and educate patients about medical care".
ABOUT THE BOOK
This Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Award winner informs patients about
basic medical care. By reading this reference book you will learn:
It also includes "My Health Notes", blank pages for you to write your own health notes! This is a great way to keep track of your health concerns, and start your medical diary.This book will tell you how to take care of your most important asset- YOU!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Richardson is a family medicine doctor with over 25 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Richardson's undergraduate and medical degrees were received from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and residency training was done at Georgetown University and Providence Hospital in
Washington, D.C. Dr. Richardson is a member of the American Academy of Family Practice (AAFP), the Florida Academy of Family Practice (FAFP) as well as University of North Carolina Alumni
Association.
Past affiliations include: Managed Care Ombudsman Committee for the Florida Agency for Healthcare
Administration (AHCA); National Association of Managed Care Physicians; Dade County Medical
Association; American Medical Women's Association; Board Member fof McLamore Children's Center of Children's Home Society of South Florida; Grove Outreach Physician Volunteer; 1999 Special Olympics Physician Volunteer; Cedars Hospital (Miami, Florida) Medical Staff and Utilization Review Committee; and American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Physicians. Dr. Richardson has experience with independent medical record review and patient advocacy issues.
Bend of the River Books is proud to announce that Patient Handbook to Medical Care is now in 59 libraries throughout the United States. Our goal is to ensure that everyone has free public access to read and learn the importance of health maintenance, prevention, and wellness. This expert's guide to personal health care is the ideal book "to inform and educate patients about medical care".
Best health!
Are you getting the medical care you deserve? Are you getting the right tests? Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide by J. L. Richardson, M.D. lets you know! This book is written for patients by a medical doctor "to inform and educate patients about medical care".
ABOUT THE BOOK
This Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Award winner informs patients about
basic medical care. By reading this reference book you will learn:
- how to keep a medical diary
- getting your medical records
- your complete medical history
- what the physical exam should include
- about preventive tests and when to get them
- about tests your doctor orders
- about specialists and other medical providers
- about health care plans and coverage
- how to seek quality health services.
It also includes "My Health Notes", blank pages for you to write your own health notes! This is a great way to keep track of your health concerns, and start your medical diary.This book will tell you how to take care of your most important asset- YOU!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Richardson is a family medicine doctor with over 25 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Richardson's undergraduate and medical degrees were received from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and residency training was done at Georgetown University and Providence Hospital in
Washington, D.C. Dr. Richardson is a member of the American Academy of Family Practice (AAFP), the Florida Academy of Family Practice (FAFP) as well as University of North Carolina Alumni
Association.
Past affiliations include: Managed Care Ombudsman Committee for the Florida Agency for Healthcare
Administration (AHCA); National Association of Managed Care Physicians; Dade County Medical
Association; American Medical Women's Association; Board Member fof McLamore Children's Center of Children's Home Society of South Florida; Grove Outreach Physician Volunteer; 1999 Special Olympics Physician Volunteer; Cedars Hospital (Miami, Florida) Medical Staff and Utilization Review Committee; and American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Physicians. Dr. Richardson has experience with independent medical record review and patient advocacy issues.
Bend of the River Books is proud to announce that Patient Handbook to Medical Care is now in 59 libraries throughout the United States. Our goal is to ensure that everyone has free public access to read and learn the importance of health maintenance, prevention, and wellness. This expert's guide to personal health care is the ideal book "to inform and educate patients about medical care".
Best health!
sábado, 13 de agosto de 2011
Is the Doctor Really "In"?
Dear Patient,
It has indeed been a privilege and wonder to take care of you and your family. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we must vacation indefinitely so we can find the best solutions for cost effective health care. Our budgets are lean as well and get leaner as more patients drop out to do self care or go to emergency rooms, public health clinics, or stand in "lotto" lines to get get health care from traveling clinics.
We must campaign for your healthcare and our salary. Routine sequential cuts for reimbursement by Medicare and Medicaid are taking its toll. Insurance companies demand more time with less pay as well. Now that the healthcare bill requiring each and every one of you to have insurance has been repealed. Self pay is an option, but you must have food and shelter first. Less money in, more money out.
Due to lack of campaign funds and time for raising necessary monies to do so, we are using and pooling our resources. We wish to provide you with continuity of care, but we must also find ways to keep a roof over our heads and food on the table. Many of my fellowess and fellow physicians are supplementing our income as well through other occupations.
Thank you for allowing me to care for you and the family. We are true believers that great health is true wealth; however, you must have money to keep it.
Best health,
Dr. Feelgood
P. S. Check out Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide via links in the right column. Get a heads up and start checking yourself and your family.
It has indeed been a privilege and wonder to take care of you and your family. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we must vacation indefinitely so we can find the best solutions for cost effective health care. Our budgets are lean as well and get leaner as more patients drop out to do self care or go to emergency rooms, public health clinics, or stand in "lotto" lines to get get health care from traveling clinics.
We must campaign for your healthcare and our salary. Routine sequential cuts for reimbursement by Medicare and Medicaid are taking its toll. Insurance companies demand more time with less pay as well. Now that the healthcare bill requiring each and every one of you to have insurance has been repealed. Self pay is an option, but you must have food and shelter first. Less money in, more money out.
Due to lack of campaign funds and time for raising necessary monies to do so, we are using and pooling our resources. We wish to provide you with continuity of care, but we must also find ways to keep a roof over our heads and food on the table. Many of my fellowess and fellow physicians are supplementing our income as well through other occupations.
Thank you for allowing me to care for you and the family. We are true believers that great health is true wealth; however, you must have money to keep it.
Best health,
Dr. Feelgood
P. S. Check out Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide via links in the right column. Get a heads up and start checking yourself and your family.
miércoles, 22 de diciembre de 2010
Healthy, Wealthy and Wise
Prevention and wellness.
Transform America to a wellness society.
Wellness and prevention are missing...make them a centerpiece of healthcare reform.
Promote wellness and prevent disease.
Transition from sick care to a true health care system.
Preventing illness and staying well are as important as curing illness.
Wellness and disease prevention are as important to your health as early detection and treatment. If we incoporate this into our healthy lifestyle agenda, we will stay on the right path to Healthy People 2020, the nation's health promotion and disease prevention program. Wellness, health maintenance, prevention and early detection will make you healthier, wealthier, and wiser!
by J. L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide, a premiere health guide that helps you and your health care team take the best care of you.
Tweet with Dr. Richardson
Patient Handbook Website
Transform America to a wellness society.
Wellness and prevention are missing...make them a centerpiece of healthcare reform.
Promote wellness and prevent disease.
Transition from sick care to a true health care system.
Preventing illness and staying well are as important as curing illness.
Wellness and disease prevention are as important to your health as early detection and treatment. If we incoporate this into our healthy lifestyle agenda, we will stay on the right path to Healthy People 2020, the nation's health promotion and disease prevention program. Wellness, health maintenance, prevention and early detection will make you healthier, wealthier, and wiser!
by J. L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide, a premiere health guide that helps you and your health care team take the best care of you.
Tweet with Dr. Richardson
Patient Handbook Website
domingo, 14 de noviembre de 2010
Health Books: Must Read Healing, Part 2
Health literacy is the sure way to help you and your health care team make the best medical decisions for you. Making healthy lifestyles permanent is one of the keys to good health. The following books are recommended primarily because they teach you things you can do for yourself that you can incorporate in your lifestyle to make it healthier.
Barney & Baby Bop Go to the Doctor
by Margie Larson
Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom
by Christiane Northrup M.D.
The Medical Advisor: Complete Guide to Alternative & Complimentary Treament
by TIME Life Books
Dr. Koop's Self Care Advisor
by Everett C. Koop, M.D.
Merck Manual
by Merck
Savvy Patient Toolkit
by Margo Corbett
The Empowered Patient
by Elizabeth Cohen
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
Best health!
Barney & Baby Bop Go to the Doctor
by Margie Larson
Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom
by Christiane Northrup M.D.
The Medical Advisor: Complete Guide to Alternative & Complimentary Treament
by TIME Life Books
Dr. Koop's Self Care Advisor
by Everett C. Koop, M.D.
Merck Manual
by Merck
Savvy Patient Toolkit
by Margo Corbett
The Empowered Patient
by Elizabeth Cohen
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
Best health!
sábado, 30 de octubre de 2010
Health Books: Must Read Healing, Part 1
Health literacy is the sure way to help you and your health care team make the best medical decisions for you. Making healthy lifestyles permanent is one of the keys to good health. The following books are recommended primarily because they teach you things you can do for yourself that you can incorporate in your lifestyle to make it healthier.
The Healing Power Of Prayer: The Surprising Connection Betweeen Prayer & Your Health
by Chester L. Tolson, Ph.D. and Harold G. Koenig, M.D.
Food as Medicine: How to Use Diet, Vitamins, Juices and Herbs for a Healthier, Happier and Longer Life
by Dharma Singh Khalsa, M.D.
Prescription for Herbal Healing
by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
Spontaneous Healing
by Andrew Weil, M.D.
The Doctor and the Word
by Reginald Cherry, M.D.
Healing Words: The Power of Prayer & the Practice of Medicine
by Larry Dossey, M.D.
20 Minute Yoga Workouts
by America Yoga Foundation & Alice Christensen (founder)
Home Health Massage
by Wendy Kavanagh
Take Charge of Your Hospital Stay: A Start Smart Guide for Patients & Caregivers
by Karen Keating McCann
Power Healing: The Four Keys To Energizing Your Body, Mind, & Spirit
by Dr. Zhi Gang Sha
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
Best health!
The Healing Power Of Prayer: The Surprising Connection Betweeen Prayer & Your Health
by Chester L. Tolson, Ph.D. and Harold G. Koenig, M.D.
Food as Medicine: How to Use Diet, Vitamins, Juices and Herbs for a Healthier, Happier and Longer Life
by Dharma Singh Khalsa, M.D.
Prescription for Herbal Healing
by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC
Spontaneous Healing
by Andrew Weil, M.D.
The Doctor and the Word
by Reginald Cherry, M.D.
Healing Words: The Power of Prayer & the Practice of Medicine
by Larry Dossey, M.D.
20 Minute Yoga Workouts
by America Yoga Foundation & Alice Christensen (founder)
Home Health Massage
by Wendy Kavanagh
Take Charge of Your Hospital Stay: A Start Smart Guide for Patients & Caregivers
by Karen Keating McCann
Power Healing: The Four Keys To Energizing Your Body, Mind, & Spirit
by Dr. Zhi Gang Sha
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide
by J. L. Richardson, M.D.
Best health!
lunes, 2 de agosto de 2010
Prevention & Early Detection with Your Personal Health Guide
Prevention and early disease detection are important for your health and wellness. Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide is the perfect book to inform you about the proper tests and exams every patient needs.
Use this quick link http://bit.ly/dpEGyA with Google Books to read actual book excerpts, and to locate libraries and book stores where the title is available.
Great health is true wealth - YOU are your most important asset.
Patient Handbook to Medical Care is now in the Kindle library. You can find this great health reference book at the Kindle Store http://amzn.to/9wjMXn on Amazon. Also available at many libraries and on line book stores.
www.mypatienthandbook.com/
www.twitter.com/MD4U
Use this quick link http://bit.ly/dpEGyA with Google Books to read actual book excerpts, and to locate libraries and book stores where the title is available.
Great health is true wealth - YOU are your most important asset.
Patient Handbook to Medical Care is now in the Kindle library. You can find this great health reference book at the Kindle Store http://amzn.to/9wjMXn on Amazon. Also available at many libraries and on line book stores.
www.mypatienthandbook.com/
www.twitter.com/MD4U
miércoles, 28 de julio de 2010
Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Introduction
To ensure that you receive the best and even proper medical care, you must know the basics. This book focuses on things that are important when you go to the doctor, and it will help you to obtain the quality medical care you deserve. If you don’t know what you’re supposed to be getting, you might well not be getting it. I have had many people—family, friends, and patients—tell me that their annual checkup was okay. Then, they describe it. Most of them say their doctor did not ask them the usual questions about their health history and did not do a complete physical examination of their body. They are told that they are okay, yet they commonly receive prescriptions and orders for more tests without knowing why. They may be given an appointment to come back, or they may not.
The goal of this book is to inform and educate patients about medical care. The book is written in an order that corresponds with the basic steps of medical care. The medical records kept by your doctor are the cornerstone of keeping track of everything pertaining to your health. This is one reason why patients should also get copies of their medical records from their doctors. In addition, I suggest that patients keep their own medical records in the form of a diary. Chapter 1 discusses keeping a medical diary and obtaining medical records from your doctors. Chapter 2
outlines what a proper physical exam should include. Preventive medicine guidelines are presented in Chapter 3. Chapter 4 discusses medical tests and what they mean. Chapter 5 describes physician specialists and when they may be necessary. The final chapter discusses types of health insurance and the quality of medical care.
It is very important for patients to learn as much as possible about wellness, disease prevention, and disease management for themselves. In our society we are accustomed to taking a doctor’s word on the state of our medical condition and treatment whether or not we understand it and either without asking any questions or without getting adequate answers to the questions we might pose. Today that might not be a healthy situation. It is necessary to be informed to get the most from your health plan and to get the best medical care from the medical resources available in the healthcare system.
By reading this book, you will find out how to take charge of your most important asset — you. This book is written to inform patients about the facts. It is by no means a substitute for your personal physician’s care and advice or for that of
any of your healthcare providers. Instead, it is a supplement. Use it in good health!
The goal of this book is to inform and educate patients about medical care. The book is written in an order that corresponds with the basic steps of medical care. The medical records kept by your doctor are the cornerstone of keeping track of everything pertaining to your health. This is one reason why patients should also get copies of their medical records from their doctors. In addition, I suggest that patients keep their own medical records in the form of a diary. Chapter 1 discusses keeping a medical diary and obtaining medical records from your doctors. Chapter 2
outlines what a proper physical exam should include. Preventive medicine guidelines are presented in Chapter 3. Chapter 4 discusses medical tests and what they mean. Chapter 5 describes physician specialists and when they may be necessary. The final chapter discusses types of health insurance and the quality of medical care.
It is very important for patients to learn as much as possible about wellness, disease prevention, and disease management for themselves. In our society we are accustomed to taking a doctor’s word on the state of our medical condition and treatment whether or not we understand it and either without asking any questions or without getting adequate answers to the questions we might pose. Today that might not be a healthy situation. It is necessary to be informed to get the most from your health plan and to get the best medical care from the medical resources available in the healthcare system.
By reading this book, you will find out how to take charge of your most important asset — you. This book is written to inform patients about the facts. It is by no means a substitute for your personal physician’s care and advice or for that of
any of your healthcare providers. Instead, it is a supplement. Use it in good health!
viernes, 2 de julio de 2010
Your Health & Medical History
One of the first things your doctors and healthcare providers want to know is why you made your appointment. Once you answer this question (hopefully before interruption) there will be questions about your general health and wellness, as well as more information about your reason for the visit. For specific concerns you may be asked:
- How long has this been going on?
- What have you done for it?
- Have you had it before?
- Where does it bother you?
- How often does it occur?
- What makes it better or worse?
- Are there any other symptoms?
You will be asked about how the other parts of the body are working, such as your eyes, ears, heart, breathing, and so on. This is called the “review of systems” (ROS). If there are any problems not related to your main problem, now is the time to let the doctor know.
This will be followed by your past medical history (PMH), which includes:
- Diseases you have (high blood pressure, sugar diabetes, arthritis, cancer, depression,
etc.), or have had that are better or gone (including childhood diseases such as
measles, mumps, and inherited disease) - Operations and times you were in the hospital (including accidents)
- Medication, including prescription, over-the counter (don’t forget about vitamins),
natural (garlic, aloe), and herbal - Allergies and reactions to anything and what it did to you (for example: breaking out in a
rash, swelling, itching, upset stomach, etc.) - Smoking, alcohol, drug use (how much,
how often) - Shots (childhood, flu, last tetanus, etc.)
- Sexual (active, using protection, number of partners, diseases)—in females this will also
include menstrual period, pregnancy, last mammogram, and Pap test - Family history (conditions that run in family
such as cancer, high blood pressure, etc.) - Social history—your job or jobs; family; marital status; living arrangement (house,
apartment, alone, etc.); transportation (drive self, public transport, walk); ambulation
(use walker, wheelchair); disability (deaf, blind, amputee, etc.) Religion, ethnic customs, and traditions
If there is anything left out or that you feel the doctor should know, now is the time to speak up. It is sometimes hard to get someone’s full attention, so take advantage of it while you have it. Some doctors’ offices will have you fill out forms asking the above questions or will ask you the questions and fill out the form for you. This is not a substitute for the doctor’s personalinterview and questions.
Writing or typing this information is a sure way to keep all of your PMH. Make a copy for your doctor. While talking you both can refer to this vital source of health information. This is part of your medical record.
Best health!
Use this handy form to get you started http://bit.ly/bEvHk6
sábado, 12 de junio de 2010
How To Make Your Doctor Appointment
The doctor in charge of your overall care is
called a primary care physician (PCP). Your first
office visit with a new doctor is the most
important one. This is when you get to know
your doctor and supply information about your
medical background. This visit may be for a
specific problem or for a complete checkup (that
is, a complete physical exam—CPE).
For a specific problem, you might only get an
examination of your complaints, symptoms
(what is bothering you), and of other areas that
the doctor knows to check depending on your
symptoms. In this case, you are usually given a
later appointment (typically in two to six weeks)
for the CPE, but ideally you would have the CPE
on your first visit. It is a good idea to make an
appointment with your doctor while you are
well. This will help you and your physician focus
on your total healthcare more clearly and without
distraction.
Schedules usually have 15-, 30-, and 60-
minute time slots. The longer times are usually
for patients who need a CPE. When you call for
your first appointment, let the doctor’s office
know if that is what you want. That way you will
not be put in a 15-minute slot, the time usually
allowed for a routine visit. Doctors’ schedules can
be very frustrating for patients, doctors, and staff.
This can lead to longer waits and shorter visits.
Being on time is important for both patients and
doctors.
Unless an emergency arises, the wait to see the
doctor should be no longer than thirty minutes.
If there is an emergency, waiting patients should
be given the option of continuing to wait,
rescheduling, or going elsewhere for treatment. If
you really have to see the doctor, just be prepared
to wait, and pray that the magazines are up-todate.
You can bring your own items to read, your
laptop, a CD or tape player with earphones, or
you can strike up conversation with other
patients. Listening and talking with others in the
waiting room is a great way to gather and share
information. Also, take the time to observe. Take
a look around the doctor’s office and watch how
things take place.
Some of the many reasons for a doctor’s
“tardiness” include overbooking patients, double
booking (scheduling two patients at the same
time), “pre-booking” (scheduling appointments
before the doctor gets in), and emergencies. If
you belong to a managed healthcare plan like an
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), the
doctor usually has little, if any, say over the
schedule because success is equated with seeing
as many patients as possible. Also, the doctor
may be an employee. The doctor who works for
someone else cannot be solely blamed because
the staff also works for someone else.
Before managed care most doctors ran their offices and
hired employees themselves. This means that the
doctor was responsible for the whole office and
the way it was managed. If your doctor is an
employee and waiting is an issue, please let the
doctor, office supervisor, and health plan know
what has happened. The doctor will then be in a
position to let the employer know there is a
scheduling problem. This should help improve
wait time and any related problems.
Best health!
by J.L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide.
www.mypatienthandbook.com
www.twitter.com/MD4U
www.blogtalkradio.com/drjfpmd
called a primary care physician (PCP). Your first
office visit with a new doctor is the most
important one. This is when you get to know
your doctor and supply information about your
medical background. This visit may be for a
specific problem or for a complete checkup (that
is, a complete physical exam—CPE).
For a specific problem, you might only get an
examination of your complaints, symptoms
(what is bothering you), and of other areas that
the doctor knows to check depending on your
symptoms. In this case, you are usually given a
later appointment (typically in two to six weeks)
for the CPE, but ideally you would have the CPE
on your first visit. It is a good idea to make an
appointment with your doctor while you are
well. This will help you and your physician focus
on your total healthcare more clearly and without
distraction.
Schedules usually have 15-, 30-, and 60-
minute time slots. The longer times are usually
for patients who need a CPE. When you call for
your first appointment, let the doctor’s office
know if that is what you want. That way you will
not be put in a 15-minute slot, the time usually
allowed for a routine visit. Doctors’ schedules can
be very frustrating for patients, doctors, and staff.
This can lead to longer waits and shorter visits.
Being on time is important for both patients and
doctors.
Unless an emergency arises, the wait to see the
doctor should be no longer than thirty minutes.
If there is an emergency, waiting patients should
be given the option of continuing to wait,
rescheduling, or going elsewhere for treatment. If
you really have to see the doctor, just be prepared
to wait, and pray that the magazines are up-todate.
You can bring your own items to read, your
laptop, a CD or tape player with earphones, or
you can strike up conversation with other
patients. Listening and talking with others in the
waiting room is a great way to gather and share
information. Also, take the time to observe. Take
a look around the doctor’s office and watch how
things take place.
Some of the many reasons for a doctor’s
“tardiness” include overbooking patients, double
booking (scheduling two patients at the same
time), “pre-booking” (scheduling appointments
before the doctor gets in), and emergencies. If
you belong to a managed healthcare plan like an
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), the
doctor usually has little, if any, say over the
schedule because success is equated with seeing
as many patients as possible. Also, the doctor
may be an employee. The doctor who works for
someone else cannot be solely blamed because
the staff also works for someone else.
Before managed care most doctors ran their offices and
hired employees themselves. This means that the
doctor was responsible for the whole office and
the way it was managed. If your doctor is an
employee and waiting is an issue, please let the
doctor, office supervisor, and health plan know
what has happened. The doctor will then be in a
position to let the employer know there is a
scheduling problem. This should help improve
wait time and any related problems.
Best health!
by J.L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide.
www.mypatienthandbook.com
www.twitter.com/MD4U
www.blogtalkradio.com/drjfpmd
For Men Only: Checkup Checklist
"If I had known I was going to live this long, I would have taken better care of myself." — Mickey Mantle
Statistics show that men are less likely than women to get routine health checkups and physical exams. Men are more likely to seek medical attention when there is an acute problem, and once that has resolved not until another acute problem. Part of the reason for this is lack of health education. Men are also more prone to the "this can't be happening to me" syndrome. Is ignorance truly bliss? Short term, maybe. Long term, no.
So what is a fella to do? Make a yearly checkup routine. Do it around your birthday or holiday like Father's Day or Christmas as a gift to yourself (your most important asset!). In addition to a complete medical history (be sure to take your notes and questions) and physical exam, there are other things your doctor should do. This includes:
Best health, guys!
by J.L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide.
http://amzn.to/13m51UU
Statistics show that men are less likely than women to get routine health checkups and physical exams. Men are more likely to seek medical attention when there is an acute problem, and once that has resolved not until another acute problem. Part of the reason for this is lack of health education. Men are also more prone to the "this can't be happening to me" syndrome. Is ignorance truly bliss? Short term, maybe. Long term, no.
So what is a fella to do? Make a yearly checkup routine. Do it around your birthday or holiday like Father's Day or Christmas as a gift to yourself (your most important asset!). In addition to a complete medical history (be sure to take your notes and questions) and physical exam, there are other things your doctor should do. This includes:
- complete blood panel including a PSA (prostate specific antigen) if over 40 or have a history of prostate cancer in your family - please note that PSA screening is very controversial as to if it should be done and should be discussed at length with your doctor as this test does save lives
- EKG, baseline at first physical then every 2-3 years - yearly if over 50, have risk factors such as smoking, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, increased cholesterol, family history of heart disease
- cardiac screening by a cardiologist if any signs or symptoms of heart disease especially if there is a family history of heart attack, angina
- colon cancer screening with stool guaiac cards - stool samples are placed on these and returned to your doctor who checks for blood (this should be done when a rectal exam is performed, but if for some reason it is not, be sure to get these cards)
- colonoscopy, baseline at 50, sooner if stool positive for occult blood or gross rectal bleeding, weight loss, stomach symptoms
Best health, guys!
by J.L. Richardson, M.D., family medicine doctor and author of Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide.
http://amzn.to/13m51UU
miércoles, 5 de agosto de 2009
Save Your Life
"Save your life!" is the title for this blog on Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide. It was written by Sue Leonard of Cornerstone Fulfillment Service on her blog All Things Fulfilling.
It is so nice to know that this book is helping to save lives. Health maintenance, wellness, prevention, and early detection/treatment are the keys to unlocking your best health.
http://allthingsfulfilling.wordpress.com/2009/08/03/save-your-life/
Thank you Sue for this powerful message that is one of all things fulfilling!
It is so nice to know that this book is helping to save lives. Health maintenance, wellness, prevention, and early detection/treatment are the keys to unlocking your best health.
http://allthingsfulfilling.wordpress.com/2009/08/03/save-your-life/
Thank you Sue for this powerful message that is one of all things fulfilling!
domingo, 1 de abril de 2007
TOC FOR PATIENT HANDBBOOK TO MEDICAL CARE
"Patient Handbook to Medical Care: Your Personal Health Guide" is a source for helping patients. The book's introduction states that "The goal of this book is to inform and educate patients about medical care...It is very important for patients to learn as much as possible about wellness, disease prevention, and disease management for themselves."
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1
Medical Records and Diary
Chapter2
The Doctor Visit
Chapter 3
Preventive Checkups and Health Maintenance
Chapter 4
Medical Tests
Chapter 5
Doctors and Specialists
Chapter 6
Health Insurance and Quality
My Health Notes (last pages)- blank pages to start medical diary
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1
Medical Records and Diary
Chapter2
The Doctor Visit
Chapter 3
Preventive Checkups and Health Maintenance
Chapter 4
Medical Tests
Chapter 5
Doctors and Specialists
Chapter 6
Health Insurance and Quality
My Health Notes (last pages)- blank pages to start medical diary
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