Medical Care Informed consent means that you agree to treatment only after it has been explained to you and that you understand it. You should know the nature of the treatment, its benefits and risks, and the likelihood of its success. You should also be told if your treatment is an experimental one. The doctor […]
Medical Exams You take your children for regular health checkups to protect their health. You, too, need preventive health screenings to increase your chances of living a longer and healthier life. For example: * A colonoscopy can find and remove polyps. These overgrowths of tissue on the lining of your colon may turn into cancer.
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Medical Care Decisions you make about your health can affect the length and quality of your life. Choose wisely. To do this, you need to gather facts. Use these sources: * You. You know more about you than anyone else. Be in touch with how you feel, physically and emotionally. Keep track of past and
Medical Care Should you require treatment in an emergency room, ask a relative or a friend to accompany you to serve as your “clear head.” He or she can keep track of what procedures are being done and what kind of treatment you’re getting, and speak on your behalf if treatment seems too slow in
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Medical Care Finding the right doctor or health care provider for you is a big part of your medical care. Don’t wait until you get sick to find one. When you look for or change doctors, follow these tips: * Look for one who accepts your health plan. Check with the plan. Ask the person
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Medical Care Hospitals and nursing homes are required to give you information about your rights as a patient under their care. Advance directives are a legal way for you to declare your wishes to choose or refuse medical treatment. {Note: If you live in or get medical care in more than one state, have advance
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MEDICAL NEWS Vaccinations aren’t just for kids. Adults need them too. How they work Vaccines stimulate your immune system to create antibodies against common diseases. Antibodies are specialized proteins that recognize and neutralize viruses or bacteria. If you are exposed to the disease, your body will be ready to fight it. Why they matter Some
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MEDICAL NEWS You may have seen ads for genetic tests. These tests claim to tell you about your health. They might tell you if you’re at risk for a certain disease or if you should eat a certain diet. Big promises from companies At-home genetic tests may sound exciting, and companies advertise them as “the
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SELF-CARE CORNER Do you think shots are only for kids? Actually, there are several important vaccines you need as an adult. Vaccinations protect yourself from disease, but also protect people around you. Young babies who aren’t yet vaccinated or people with weak immune systems can benefit from your vaccination. You will be less likely to
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MEDICAL NEWS Each August, National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) encourages all people to protect their health by being immunized against infectious diseases. This year, the National Public Health Information Coalition is coordinating NIAM activities and along with CDC is focusing on four weekly themes: A Healthy Start If you are pregnant or are planning a
