This fall, we joined our advisor Anna Allen as she presented at Lenox Hill Greenwich Village.
Anna is the founder of Say Ah!, an important partner of We The Patients. Say Ah!’s mission is to help people make smart choices about their health and manage their care in the face of today’s overwhelmingly complex health care system. Say Ah! educates and empowers patients and consumers through workshops, educational materials, partnerships, and advocacy.
Anna’s presentation, entitled “Emergency Room 101: for Patients and Caregivers,” provided tools to patients to be prepared for emergency room and hospital visits. Here are some key takeaways from the event:
Before your visit:
-
- Make sure you have an updated Medication List, noting any prescription, over-the-counter, herbs, vitamins, and supplements. The list should include the following:
- What the medication is
- Dosage
- When you take it
- Why you take it
- Doctor’s contact number
- Make sure you have a Personal Health Record. This is a way that you and anyone you authorize can maintain and manage your health information in a secure and confidential environment. It should include:
- Your health status
- List of doctors and pharmacy with contact info
- Any allergies
- Medical devices you use
- Major health events, such as surgeries or hospitalizations
- Family health history
- Lastly, think of three people you can use as emergency contacts, and give them copies of your Medication List and Personal Health Record. This will help them be an informed advocate for you, if necessary!
- Make sure you have an updated Medication List, noting any prescription, over-the-counter, herbs, vitamins, and supplements. The list should include the following:
After your visit:
-
- Call if you don’t understand something
- Call 911 if you are having an emergency
- Report back to your doctor and health care team about diagnosis, treatment, and medications
With all of these tips and information, you will be prepared to advocate for yourself and your health! Learn more about Say Ah! and its work and look out for future events in partnership with Say Ah! in early 2020.