Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Are You Asking The Right Health Care Questions?




The Right Questions will Give You The Right Answers

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Let's take a moment to understand the prime purpose of such services and its overall mission. Research shows that individuals who have a good relationship with their health care team receive better care and are happier with their care.  Patients and families who engage with a  Health Care Coach ask good questions which help to  reduce the risk of errors and hospital admissions.  Your health depends on good communication

Healthy  living includes attaining true knowledge that helps you maintain a new lifestyle change. Being a Nurse in such a multicultural city, I have  seen many people receive inadequate care due to a  lack of understanding.  I just want to share some healthcare information to help increase your total potential of staying healthy.


It has been cited that  Doctors interrupt patients 18 seconds into an office visit, on average. Given this fact, patients who seek to maximize their healthcare experience must learn how to speak so that doctors will listen. There are three communication skills that  when applied to a doctor’s visit, can increase odds that your Physician will hear, and help solve the problem.

1st – Prepare what you will say. 


2nd – Know what you would like to achieve.

3rd – Formulate collaborative questions.

The first step in effective communication is to prepare your message. Successful preparation for a doctor visit requires identification your primary health concern, symptoms relevant to this concern, and the length frequency intensity of each symptom. Stick to the facts, keep focused on what you believe to be relevant data, and keep your explanation short.

Asking questions and providing information to your Doctor and other care providers can improve your care. Talking with your doctor builds trust and leads to better results, quality, safety, and satisfaction. Quality health care is a team effort. You play an important role. One of the best ways to communicate with your doctor and health care team is by asking questions. Because time is limited during medical appointments, you will feel less rushed if you prepare your questions before your appointment.

Your doctor wants your questions

Doctors know a lot about a lot of things, but they don't always know everything about you or what is best for you.
Your questions give your doctor and health care team important information about you, such as your most important health care concerns.

Quality health care is a team effort.  With the introduction of Health Care Advocacy, we provide the resources that will help individuals and community health partners  work towards a common goal. More knowledge for all towards true health and wellness.  You play an important role. One of the best ways to communicate with your doctor and health care team is by asking  the right questions, bearing  in mind  that you have limited  time during  your medical appointments, you will feel less rushed if you prepare your questions before your appointment.

Your doctor wants your questions

Doctors know a lot about a lot of things, but they don't always know everything about you or what is best for you.  Your questions give your doctor and health care team important information about you, such as your most important health care concerns,  Your Family History  will be your guide to attaining the best care.


Asking questions is key to good communication with your doctor. If you don't ask questions, your doctor may think you do not need or want more information. Asking questions help your doctor know what is important to you. It also lets your doctor know when something he or she says is unclear.


Your diagnosis is what your doctor thinks is your health problem. Most times your doctor will make the diagnosis based on what you say are your symptoms and the results of a physical exam, lab tests, and other medical tests.

Understanding your health problem will  help you make decisions.  If you know how the health problem may affect your life, activities and what may happen if the condition gets worse, you will be able to handle your challenge  better.

Imagine that your doctor just gave you a serious diagnosis or told you she was concerned about the results of your medical test. You might understandably become scared.
Listening carefully to your doctor and asking questions about a diagnosis or test results can help you get better care. But here's the problem: Just when you should be paying close attention to what your doctor is saying, you may be stunned by the news you just received.
That's when having a health or patient advocate can help.
A health advocate is a family member, friend, trusted coworker, or a hired professional who can ask questions, write down information, and speak up for you so you can better understand your illness and get the care and resources you need.
Research shows that quality health care means taking an active role in decisions about your care. If you're facing a difficult medical decision, it's a good idea to bring someone with you who can help you take an active role in your care when you're not fully up to it.
As a doctor and a patient, I've seen how valuable it is to have "another set of ears and eyes" in the exam room. Having an advocate at medical appointments or during a hospital stay can ensure that you get the information you need to manage your health.


Health advocates can:
  • Ask questions or voice concerns to your doctor for you.
  • Compile or update your medicine list.
  • Remember your medication regimen and help you follow treatment instructions, including asking questions about your follow-up care.
  • Help arrange transportation.
  • Research treatment options, procedures, doctors, and hospitals.
  • File paperwork or assist with insurance matters.
  • Ask the "what's next" questions, such as, "If this test is negative what does it mean? If it's positive, will more tests be needed?"
Many encounters with the medical system are routine and don't require the use of a patient advocate. But there are instances when an advocate can be valuable. For example, if you've had a series of tests and you're concerned the results may reveal a diagnosis such as cancer, you might want to bring an advocate with you to hear and discuss the results.
Getting a diagnosis of a serious illness can be an overwhelming experience. You're likely to be distracted and miss hearing important information. An advocate can receive that information for you and ask the questions you might have later.

Who makes a good health advocate? Someone who is calm, pays attention to details, and can ask questions and state information clearly.


If possible, choose someone who knows you well. Be clear about what kind of help you need and what worries you. It's helpful to give your advocate details of your medical history. For example, you may want to discuss the tests you've had, list medicines you take and provide contact information for other family members and your durable power of attorney.

If your advocate doesn't know you well, make sure to let him or her know if your hearing or vision is limited. He or she can alert your medical team to speak clearly and to read instructions aloud if they are not available in large type.
If you can't locate an advocate before an important medical or hospital visit, you can find a professional, often a nurse or doctor, to serve this role.  Some professional advocates specialize in researching the best available treatments and can assist you at home or in the hospital. Check to see if your health insurance covers these services.

You can also ask your local hospital staff to recommend a patient advocate. In fact, some hospitals and nursing homes employ advocates who work on patients' behalf at no charge.
It's likely that you or a loved one will one day need a health advocate. For many patients, the benefits of having an advocate are priceless because he or she can help you understand your options and give you peace of mind so you can focus on your recovery.
I'm Dr. Carolyn Clancy, and that's my advice on how to navigate the health care system.



It's time for you to be in charge of your health. With our expert Plan.


Contact  your Healthcare  Coach Today! Find out how this service will change  your Life forever We are here to help.  We also offer Corporate Wellness solutions. This has been watching out for your Health with Michelle Smith Your Health and Social Advocate I provide cultural diverse services which is essential to navigating the health care system. 










DO YOU KNOW THE RULES OF SCHOOL? LEARN THE FACTS

Updated January 9 2016
original post-Sept 15 2014.
As  the year progresses I will update my  Do You Know The Rules of School Posts

Listening to steps after dark I heard the words of   retweeted
Tuesday#HotTipsnTopix Kerry Lee Speaks Author of "Awakening a Cultural Unconsciousness Equitably Improving Student Achievement"
Brought me to this blog originally


Hello all, it's Michelle Smith, your Health and Social advocate. I hope all is well? last year I did a blog about learning the rules of the school system. That blog received over 2200 views. Thank you for your continued commitment to reading my blogs. Being a Parent is a difficult challenge that requires as much support as possible. With my now, 21-year-old daughter and my 16-year-old son, The rules of School is a topic that requires continuous follow-up. At best I am a Parent advocate.

Learning to navigate the school system dates back to my own experience of being a hyperactive, outspoken student which even back then was labeled as ADHD. The struggle was real for my Mother, especially since they continuously tried to convince her to put me on Ritalin and send me to DellCrest Centre an organization that addresses child Mental Health. My Mother was a very strong advocate for me, which has been a very valuable lesson especially since I had to follow suite and become an advocate for my children. There are various factors that may effect onces ability to advocate for their children. The goal here, is to give all Parents the knowledge needed to navigate the school system successfully.

I must admit, the struggle was real with the constant complaints regarding what now has become cycled behaviour known to many as ADHD, Yes they said my Daughter had it too. The day care had concerns regarding her attention span. Let us move forward to my Son, who was commonly labelled as the "class clown" due to his outgoing humorous demeanour. Sounds lovable doesn't it? Well, his teachers did not find it lovable that he constantly interrupted the class.


My struggles became a question of inquiry for all students and parents. As a Mother that has faced many social challenges, I am determined that knowledge is Power, but as Kerry Lee Crawford put it knowledge is power only when applied.


I have independently raised my children with the help of various community organizations. This experience has been a true testimony   to the benefits of supporting community organizations, and individuals that are trailblazers in changing outcomes in the community. The TDSB states "Our Mission To enable all students to reach high levels of achievement and to acquire the knowledge, skills, and values they need to become responsible members of a democratic society.

It is essential for you to understand that your child's educational journey starts with you. High School may seem far away for many of you, but it is a good idea to understand the choices that your child will have throughout their educational journey. This blog represents information from the TDSB (Toronto District School) however, whether you are in York region, Peel Region, Durham Region, Knowing the Rules of school will exist in the same manner.



Acknowledging your child's learning style sooner rather than later will help you be a better advocate for your child's education.Keep in mind that parents or guardians can request meetings with teachers, principals, school counselors, or other school staff anytime during the school year. As cited by the TDSB 





let me share with you a quick story, It was 2012,  my Son was in grade 8 getting ready to pick his courses for grade 9, he had a Teacher that unfortunately did not feel that he was capable of academic math. Even though I was educated  and fought for him things where very much out of my control (This process is done in February prior to your child going into grade 9)It was 2013, February I decided that I would take the opportunity of Optional Attendance for my Son's High School years. As a Parent you do have the option to choose another school  for your child, especially if you feel that your child may be more successful in another school in another area. The choice  was also made with my Son for him to attend a school that he was interested in.  CyberStudies@George Harvey C.I. which strives to prepare students for academic success after high school. Staff work closely with students to ensure that high expectations are met. Our high academic focus includes programs such as STEPS to University of Toronto, STEPS to College, and dual-credit courses, and it ensures that all students have options to pursue their skills and passion. What a great choice for my Son. I was so proud of him for applying to this school and him getting accepted. Their was one small problem, his grade 8 Teacher did not think he was capable of being an Academic math student. 

It was the 3rd week of grade 10,  I wanted to uncover his feelings about school, his teachers and his overall experience with having to take this  transfer credit in order to go into academic math for grade 10. He was upset of course because he had to spend his summer doing a subject that he was already capable of doing


Your child's Guidance counselors and Teachers play a significant role in steering your child's future. So get to know them all, I recommend making your first contact within the first 2 weeks of school, and for Youths in High School within the first 3 weeks into each semester. This will show that you are  committed to the success of your child. Give the school the  best way to contact you.


 As a Parent, it is also very important to be honest about your child's needs, if he or she requires more attention then let it be known. Success is the main goal, but if you find resistant or require further assistance learn to ask. Get to know your child's Principal, Vice Principle, The TDSB Trustee for your area. Get to know them all.

 Anthony took the summer school course and did very well. This blog may seem as if it is mainly for my Son  but one common issue throughout the community is that Girls are being  encouraged into academic streams more than boys.  Even though there have been great initiatives for STEM programs ( Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)  This has to be cultivated earlier rather than later in students, in order to give them the opportunity to acquire this passion. Please note Stem programs are at an academic level, so if your child is steered away from academic courses pursuing a career in that field may be difficult  to attain.  


The moral of  this blog is that  both of my children have had  their individualized challenges, Anthony has continued to excel into grade 11 receiving many awards, he is a leader in his school. As parents, it is very important to understand that you are not alone. For 2016, let's continue to  work towards student success

 Take the wheel and steer it. Get involved by understanding the different programs offered by your school board. Learn your options. Be apart of your school's parent council,  and lastly get to know your area school trustee
Special Thanks to Mr. Patrick Aptan VP and the Teachers of George Harvey Collegiate for their continuous support and dedication to student success. http://www.georgeharveyci.ca/index.php

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Meet Michelle Smith Your
Health & Social Advocate

 JA Smith Consulting And Nursing Services is a Social Enterprise, a division of  JA Nursing We Care Inc.  We are  taking Advocacy to a new level by rising to meet the challenges of both our healthcare and social system,  By bridging the gap between these  two systems, it will create a new wave of empowerment, which will improve the health and  social outcomes for the clients that we serve. We understand the importance of cultural competency, and this is what set's us apart 

Thank You for following my journey,  with over  155, 000  readers,  I truly wanted to say thank you.  don't forget to hit the subscribe button so you can get the news first


We understand the importance of cultural competence as a tool for increasing the impact in both the health and social sector. Our Mission is to provide an approach that addresses prevention, risk, and coping skills with regards to Health and Social issues. JA Nursing We Care Inc. will work towards extending our organization Globally, within the Jamaican Diaspora.  Why is this needed in our community?  Over the years   it has been proven that individuals going through a health challenge can be related to what is know as   social determinants of health. What is that you ask? It has been cited that 
Social determinants of health are economic and social conditions that influence the health of people and communities [1]. These conditions are shaped by the amount of money, power, and resources that people have, all of which are influenced by policy choices. Social determinants of health affect factors that are related to health outcomes. Factors related to health outcomes include:

  • How a person develops during the first few years of life (early childhood development)
  • How much education a person obtains
  • Being able to get and keep a job
  • What kind of work a person does
  • Having food or being able to get food (food security)
  • Having access to health services and the quality of those services
  • Housing status
  • How much money a person earns
  • Discrimination and social support


With  these factors in mind,  increasing  the  health and social  literacy of  my community   became the mission of both my divisions both locally and internationally.




Are you looking for an Energetic, Educated, and Inspirational speaker that will “keep it real” with your audience for your next event? You already know that Gen Y / Millennials crave authenticity. Michelle Smith certainly delivers, be it as a Keynote speaker, Moderator, Facilitator, Event Host/ EmCee, Media, or as an addition to your Special Event. Michelle is known for her entertaining, informative, empowering and inspiring conversations.


The people spoke so I listened you can find Us easier at www.janursing.com don't forget the name this is a movement

https://youtu.be/LS2dyXUzcZU?list=LLdj0RO1MsrrVSNsz-i2yNVw

 http://thatchannel.com/

http://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/socialdeterminants/faq.html

 https://youtu.be/i87GDOLqifc

https://www.youtube.com/user/thatchanneltv
http://www.janursingservices.com/community-division.html YT

http://www.janursingservices.com/healthcare-shield.html

 http://www.janursingservices.com/healthcare-shield.html

Health Care Shield: A 23-Year Journey to Your Advocate on Paper

Hey, it's your girl, JANURSING  I've been thinking a lot lately about why I do what I do. And I realized it all comes back to 2002. ...