There are many different ways that people can advocate for themselves with their physicians. I always tell my patients that you are your own best advocate and in many cases, if someone has a severe disability, they may have a family member, whether it’s a spouse or child that can also advocate for them.
Number One is knowing about the disease. Knowing what MS is, knowing what your treatments are for and what they’re supposed to do.
I think number two is seeking out knowledge about new treatments. I have many patients that come to different programs where I or my colleagues will speak in our city, Atlanta or in different parts of the country and so learning about new things that are going on and bringing those back to your physician are also important. I think that another thing is that if you feel that someone is not listening to your concerns or that you’re continuing to get worse despite your treatment, it is okay to seek a second opinion.
I’ve many patients who’ve come to see me for a second opinion. I also have many patients who have seen someone else for a second opinion. When you have Multiple Sclerosis or a chronic disease, it’s a very intimate relationship with your healthcare provider. You spend a lot of time with them, you talk to them about many of the things that are going on in your life, and you often see them very regularly, much more regularly than you may see your regular primary care physician. And so you need to be with someone that you feel comfortable with and that you feel listens to your concerns.
And so if you’re not getting that where you are, it is absolutely okay to seek a second opinion. And so I encourage people to do that because you have to have a trusting relationship with that physician, especially when you’re talking about medications that may affect your immune system and affect your health overall.
Dr. Mitzi Joi Williams is a top neurologist and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Specialist in Atlanta, Georgia. She received her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology from Emory University and her Doctor of Medicine degree from Morehouse School of Medicine. Dr. Williams completed her internship and residency in neurology as well as a Clinical Fellowship in Multiple Sclerosis at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, GA. Dr. Williams has a strong interest in understanding and furthering research in MS in ethnic minority populations. She is a sought-after speaker and presenter and has discussed her research both nationally and internationally at various scientific meetings. She has spearheaded and participated in multiple Steering Committees and Work Groups to further research in underserved population with MS. She also has recently increased involvement in efforts to increase diversity in clinical research and educate the community about the importance of research participation. Dr. Williams is the author of MS Made Simple: The Essential Guide to Understanding Your Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis. Because of her passion for teaching and advocacy.
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