A women's health resource lead by women's health experts!

How to Self-Advocate at a Doctor Appointment (and a list of resources)

doctor writing patient notes in their office with a stethoscope on desk

Self-advocating for your health is hard. When a doctor has only fifteen minutes to see you, it is not always a lack of empathy on their part, but rather a structural constraint that forces them to sprint through a checklist. It is far from ideal, but unfortunately, the reality of a broken system. To make sure your concerns are heard and taken seriously, you have to approach your appointment with a strategy. Here are some practical tips to help navigate your next visit to the doctor’s office. (And a list of healthcare resources at the end!)