Guest Author - Jessica Steinmetz

Women with Disabilities Have Health Issues Too

Finding the right doctor is often a difficult task for any woman. Some doctors lack the understanding of women's health concerns. Finding a good doctor can be more difficult when you are a woman with a disability. For example, with cerebral palsy it is hard to stay still, and finding a doctor that understands that problem is not easy. Sometimes you might find that doctors do not always take you seriously, and they may not truly listen to you.

You are an active participant in your health. Keep a copy of your medical records. say. Do not take a back seat and allow your doctor to do whatever they wish. You have a voice and an opinion. No one knows your body and health better than you.

I noticed that many people with disabilities lack in communication skills because they fear of rocking the boat or they don’t want to be a bother. However, by being quiet you are opening yourself up to possible dangerous situations. We are adults, and we need to communicate our needs. So, please speak up.

If you haven’t chosen a doctor yet, it is time to search around. Family and friends have recommendations, and you can call your local hospital for referrals. Some doctors will meet with you even before an actual appointment. This might be a good idea so you can get to know each other.

When you meet or talk to the doctor, have some questions ready. You should ask if they ever treated anyone with your disability before. Are they certified? What school did they go to? What kind of insurance will they accept? Are they willing to accommodate your disability? What age the procedures if an emergency develops during off hours or the weekend?

When meeting with your doctor, keep a mental record about how he or she treats you. Bring with you your medical, social, and family history, insurance card, list of allergies and medications, and a list of symptoms that you might experience. When you talk to the doctor, do they maintain eye contact? Make sure they talk to you as an adult and respect what you say. They should listen carefully, and most importantly; answer all your questions.

Trust your instincts. Women have excellent instincts, and they know when something isn’t exactly right for you. If you feel uncomfortable, I suggest beginning searching again. Do not settle for a bad doctor or a bad situation.