Patient Advocacy: How Plus Size Women Can Get Better Healthcare and Be Heard
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Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging for anyone, but plus-size women (men too) often face additional obstacles due to weight bias.
These biases can significantly impact the quality of medical care and erode self-worth… or worse yet, cause plus-size people to stop seeking medical treatment altogether.
Here’s a video I created on this topic after a community member submitted this question for Ask Me Anything (AMA):
Understanding Weight Bias in Healthcare
Weight bias in healthcare is a legitimate issue that negatively affects plus size individuals.
Doctors may prematurely attribute various symptoms to weight, thereby neglecting to investigate other possible causes. This oversight can lead to misdiagnoses and severe health consequences.
Weight bias is not the fault of those in larger bodies; it’s a prejudice rooted in healthcare culture. We are in 2024, and it’s time to eradicate this form of discrimination.
Everyone, regardless of size, deserves thorough and respectful medical care.
Preparing for Your Medical Appointment
Make a List of Questions and Symptoms – before your appointment, jot down any questions you have and list your symptoms.
Include details such as duration and any over-the-counter remedies you’ve tried.
Bring this notebook with you to ensure you address all of your concerns during the visit.
This preparation shows the doctor that you are organized and serious about your health. More importantly, it helps you stay focused and ensures your symptoms and questions are thoroughly discussed.
Use Direct Language: Communicate Clearly and Assertively – direct language is a powerful tool for self-advocacy.
Phrases such as, “Before we discuss weight, I need you to examine my current symptoms,” can help refocus the conversation on your immediate health concerns.
If weight is still brought up, consider asking, “What would you recommend to a thin patient with these same symptoms?”
For specific issues like seasonal allergies, you might say, “I understand your concern about my weight, but I’m here today about my allergies specifically.”
Being clear and direct helps steer the conversation and leaves less room for weight bias to overshadow your primary health concerns.
Request Tests and Documentation – when a doctor recommends weight loss as the primary treatment, request that they document this recommendation in your medical notes.
Then, ask, “What other tests can we run to rule out anything else?” This puts the onus on the doctor to consider and investigate other potential causes for your symptoms.
Documentation not only holds the healthcare provider accountable but also provides a record that can be useful if you seek a second opinion.
Maintaining Your Self-Worth
The persistent emphasis on weight by healthcare providers can be emotionally draining and devaluing. Remind yourself that a doctor’s weight bias is a reflection of their prejudice, not your worth.
Use affirmations to reinforce your self-worth, such as:
“I am worthy of proper medical care at my current size.”
“My body deserves respect and thorough health care.”
“I am my own best advocate.”
These affirmations can help counteract the negative impact of weight bias and reinforce your right to quality healthcare.
Bring a Support Person – consider bringing a support person to your appointments. Whether a significant other, friend, or relative, having someone by your side can provide moral support and help ensure your concerns are taken seriously.
They can also serve as an extra pair of ears to remember details discussed during the appointment.
Finding Size-Friendly Healthcare Providers – seek Providers Who Practice Health at Every Size (HAES) Look for healthcare providers who adhere to weight-neutral approaches or the HAES philosophy.
These providers focus on overall health and wellness rather than weight. Finding such a provider can significantly improve your medical experiences and help maintain your self-esteem.
A great resource to check out is Association for Size Diversity and Health Professionals Directory – you can search by state, and more!
I also highly recommend you read the book Health At Every Size: The Truth About Your Weight. I am on my third time through it, right now – it’s been that powerful and impactful to me!
Get A Second Opinion – never hesitate to seek a second or even third (if needed), opinion if you feel your symptoms are being dismissed. Your health is crucial, and you have the right to consult multiple professionals to get the care you deserve.
Join Supportive Communities – communities that support Health at Every Size and are weight-neutral can provide valuable referrals, emotional support, and a sense of camaraderie. Connections made in these communities can be uplifting and resourceful.
Empowering Change in Healthcare – by standing up for yourself and advocating for better treatment, you are not only helping yourself but also paving the way for other plus size individuals.
I want to leave you with an important reminder: Your health matters, your symptoms are valid, and you deserve proper medical care!