2018-06-05T14:01:00
(BPT) – Content sponsored and provided by Pfizer.
Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) requires regular medical appointments with your rheumatologist or healthcare provider (HCP), which can be valuable time to ask questions about RA symptoms and learn about available resources or treatments. Listed below are five key steps to help you with your interaction with your HCP.
Schedule Conversations, Not Appointments
Think of your time with your HCP as a conversation: two people, on equal ground, working together to help you manage your RA.
Prepare in Advance and Prioritize Questions
Time with your HCP is never as long as either of you would prefer. To maximize your time, always have updates and questions ready before the conversation, and try to prioritize your questions.
You Know Yourself the Best
You know your body better than anyone. You know when you’re meeting your goals or not. Trust your instincts and be honest when speaking with your HCP about how you’re really doing.
Be Specific and Honest
When your HCP asks you: “How are you doing?” try to use more descriptive words about your RA symptoms than simply stating “fine,” “good” or “OK.” Ask yourself: “Am I really ‘fine’ or am I just trying to appear strong?”
Set Goals
Setting goals that can be measured during each conversation with your HCP is one of the most important things you can do. Discuss progress toward goals at each visit to track the management of your RA.
Visit www.Pfizer.com/RANarRAtive to download the Power Your Inner RA Voice Conversation Guide which includes these key tips along with a worksheet to help guide your next appointment!