Do you have a plan to reduce your risks of blood clots?
Could you lead your recovery if you become a blood clot survivor?
In my experience, the worst advice given to women after surviving a blood clot is “trust the experts.”
Val Conley, Founder Speaking of Blood Clots and Survivor
That’s not a statement criticizing individual health care providers.
It’s stating what science and health care professionals are already taking about.
There’s an educational gap in women’s health care, more so for women who fall into subgroups with chronic conditions, like blood clots.
Menopause is a great example.
Despite the fact that nearly 90 million women in the United States are projected to be postmenopausal by 2060, menopause remains low on the priority list of many residency programs.
Lack of standardized menopause curriculum and access to menopause-specific educational materials leaves many healthcare professionals ill-equipped to manage needs of record number of menopausal women.
The Menopause Society
Being a critical thinker and advocate for yourself does NOT mean dismissing the value and skill of health care professionals.
It compliments it.
Lived experience as a blood clot survivor helps providers experience growth in their personal and professional development.
Helping to improve their skills and understanding related to education and treatments options.
Your experience helps close those gaps.
Involvement in your care also means you understand the purpose and impact behind medical opinions, lifestyle changes, medications and to live a healthy life.
Self-education allows you to use your appointment time effectively.
You and your doctors are on the same team – equal partners with different skill sets.
HAVING A PLAN GOES BEYOND PHYSICAL CARE AND MEDICATIONS
Becoming a care co partner goes beyond physical health and medication compliance.
It can improve your mental and emotional well-being as well.
Reduced Anxiety and Stress: When you know what to expect, it can help reduce uncertainties and fears associated with the blood clots.
Positive Mindset and Coping Strategies: Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the challenges, you can develop coping strategies, resilience, and a proactive approach to managing your blood clot recovery.
Enhanced Quality of Life: Taking an active, confident role in your care can help you manage chronic conditions associated with VTE like post thrombotic syndrome or potential side effects of long-term anticoagulants (blood thinners.)
Be nothing less than a valued and encouraged partner in your healthcare journey, it matters.
resources:
Mindsets to Enhance Treatment Effectiveness: PMID: 28418538
Is There Time for Management of Patients With Chronic Diseases in Primary Care? PMID: 15928223
Deciding on Treatment Duration for Unprovoked Venous Thromboembolism: What is Important to Patients?
