Whether you’re experiencing concerning symptoms, have a family history of a health condition, or you don’t meet the recommendations for a screening but still want to be screened, there are steps you can take to advocate for yourself and get the care you need.
Self-advocacy means speaking up, making your wishes known, and taking action to get your health needs met. It can take some practice, but learning to be your own best advocate can go a long way at the doctor’s office.
Here are some tips to help you self-advocate for screenings.
It’s often very helpful for healthcare professionals to have a detailed record of your symptoms. You can try keeping a symptom journal to take to your appointment, with details like:
- how often you experience symptoms
- how severe your symptoms are
- whether your symptoms are constant or if they fluctuate
- whether any over-the-counter or prescription treatments have helped you in the past
It may also help to record other details, like what you eat and drink and when you take any medications or supplements. This way, your doctor can better understand your health situation and can recommend the appropriate screening.
From Our Editors“Even though I’m younger than the recommended
age 45 for colon cancer screenings and I don’t have a family history of the condition, my doctor recommended a colonoscopy because I was detailed about my symptoms and made it clear that I was concerned.”— Kim
Learn more about the screenings guidelines for colorectal cancer.
Quotes represent individual opinions. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
Regardless of whether you’re experiencing symptoms, a family history of a condition often necessitates early and regular screenings.
For example, if you have a family history of a certain type of cancer, regular screenings can be a great way to catch it early or provide you with peace of mind.
Try to bring as many details about your family history to your doctor as you can. It can help them to know things like:
- how many family members have been affected
- at what point in their lives their conditions were diagnosed
- whether they had a specific condition subtype or set of symptoms
And if you don’t have many details about your family history, tell your doctor that as well. They can help you evaluate other possible risk factors that may necessitate a screening.
It can often be difficult to keep track of everything you may want to discuss at a doctor’s appointment. Before you arrive, try to take the time to write down your thoughts, questions, and concerns.
Bring the list with you to help guide your conversation with your doctor. It may also help to list your questions and concerns by priority in case there isn’t time to cover everything at your appointment.
As you and your doctor discuss your health situation and possible next steps, it can be helpful to write down what you discuss. Having a detailed record of your appointments, who you met with, and what you talked about can help guide your future care or screening schedule.
If your doctor doesn’t recommend a screening or if you just feel “off” about anything, you have the right to get a second opinion. It’s OK to tell your doctor that you’re considering getting another opinion, too.
Some people may hesitate to tell their doctor about wanting another opinion, but it’s better to be honest with them about your wishes. In fact, many doctors may be open to you seeking additional advice. A 2024 survey of 756 endocrinologists found that a little more than half of them had a positive attitude toward getting a second opinion.
Self-advocacy is part of what makes the relationship between you and your doctor stronger.
Editor Mike Hoskins, who has helped many people in the diabetes community self-advocate for screenings and diagnostic testing, has this to say:
“Medical professionals are a key part of your healthcare team, but always remember that the keyword is ‘team.’ They are one part of that. You are another key part, and your opinion matters. You live with symptoms every day, and while they have the credentials behind their name, you are in the trenches every day of your care journey.
“Ask questions if you don’t understand, press if a doctor’s advice doesn’t match what you may be experiencing, and don’t hesitate to find a second opinion for diagnosis testing or discussion to get what’s best for your health.”
Want to learn more?
When it comes to getting the screenings or care you need, you’re the best advocate for yourself. Bring as much information about your health situation to your doctor as you can, and be clear about your concerns and wishes.