My doctor isn’t supporting me
so what do I do now?
No, it’s not in your head—people from marginalised groups, particularly women, have a long history of being dismissed and invalidated by medical professionals.
The reality of seeking support
Navigating the healthcare system can be a challenging and frustrating experience, especially when you feel unsupported by your doctor. Most of the people I work with have had multiple experiences of invalidation, being misunderstood, not being listened to, and being dismissed. This leads to misdiagnosis, or delay in diagnosis, mistreatment, and mental distress. Feeling unsupported by your doctor can have a significant impact on your mental and emotional health. You might find yourself doubting your symptoms or feeling like you're not being taken seriously. This can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and a sense of helplessness.
You have the right to be treated with respect and compassion and only you are the expert in your body. Recognising the need for advocacy and support is a crucial step toward finding the care you deserve.
Health Advocacy and Support
With my background as an acute hospital social worker and personal experience with chronic health conditions, I offer a supportive approach to navigating the healthcare system.
My methods focus on breaking down communication barriers between healthcare providers and you whilst empowering you to advocate for yourself, ensuring you receive the care and respect you deserve.
Health advocacy focuses on empowering you to communicate effectively with healthcare providers, understand your rights as a patient, and access essential resources. I will assist you in creating a detailed symptom profile using medical language and prepare a comprehensive report for your appointment. By developing these skills, you'll gain confidence and assertiveness in your interactions with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
Emotional Support is also a key component of my approach. Managing a health condition is stressful, and feeling unsupported can exacerbate this stress. I provide a safe and compassionate space for you to express your frustrations and fears, helping you develop coping strategies to manage the emotional toll of your healthcare journey. I can also be available by phone during your appointment should you need additional support.
If you're feeling unsupported by your doctor and are seeking ways to advocate for yourself and receive better care, I'm here to help. I invite you to book a free initial consultation to discuss your healthcare challenges and explore how advocacy and emotional support can help you receive the care you deserve. Let's work together to improve your healthcare experience.