You are your strongest Advocate.  If the person who is treating you, does not take proper care of yourself; you have to speak up and demand you are being taken care of properly.  If this person is a doctor or another provider, and ignores your condition or worst yet does not care, you have to take positive action.

If this person is a doctor that means he/she addresses your biggest concerns.  Sometimes that means being properly referred to the appropriate party.  Sometimes that means the appropriate blood work or tests is being ordered.

You know your body and mind.  You know when something is wrong or a condition is developing that needs addressing.  If your provider consistently lets things go, then you have to consider changing providers.

You are always in the driver’s seat.  Sometimes that means being prepared when you spend time with your provider.  That means you make a list of the issues you want covered.  That person’s time (as well as yours) is valuable.  You want to make the best use of your time with your caretaker.

Again, you are your strongest advocate.  Never forget that.  The provider can not read your mind.  You have to let the person know what is going on.  You are your strongest advocate.