Hope Alexander MPH

The below article is a guest column written by Hope, that was published in the “Medical Forum WA”  magazine, Western Australia’s Independent Monthly for Health Professionals December, 2009 edition. Her article is on Page 17 and the orginal article can be accessed at http://www.medicalhub.com.au/component/option,com_docman/task,doc_download/gid,174/Itemid,228/

The GP-patient relationship is an imperfect science, with many GPs finding it hard to diagnose properly if information is not articulated correctly or withheld. Conversely, some seniors believe GPs need to take a different approach when dealing with this growing demographic in WA.

So what do seniors want from their GP? To be listened to, taken seriously and to be able to enjoy a partnership with their health provider. I believe this leads to more productive consultations and a positive outcome for both doctor and patient.

Many seniors (like me) have at least one chronic condition, some have more. This does not necessarily mean we are ill or incapacitated. Seniors need support and information, including access to resources so that we are better able to ‘self manage’ our condition in partnership with our health providers.

Having gained weight and body fat after cancer treatment I do not want to be told “it is because you are menopausal”, “because you have had children”, “it is in your family”, or worse still “go to Jenny Craig”. It is more useful to be referred to a dietician and an exercise physiologist. In this way a plan can be drawn up to achieve my goal, that is, to manage my weight, to keep fit, to reduce the risk of other medical conditions, and reduce the risk of the cancer recurring.

With the help of my GP I can set my health goals, draft an action plan, and take responsibility for my continuing wellness.

What doctors can do to make the journey easier:

1. Suggest the patient brings all medication they are taking to the consultation. An on-going review can minimise errors such as a patient taking the same drug by another name, continuing to take medication if no longer required and confusion.
2. Ask the patient to write down a list of questions to ask the doctor, and copy the answers given by the doctor.
3. Offer the patient a print-out of all medications they are taking, the reason for taking it and dosage – including any known drug reactions. Seniors often put this list on their fridge, so in an emergency ambulance officers have access to this vital information.
4. If a doctor is uncomfortable discussing a particular issue, e.g. sexuality, refer the patient to someone who is not. Many patients have difficulties in this area because of surgery, chemotherapy and other procedures.
5. Suggest the patient request a long consultation if there are several issues to be discussed, or else make two consultations. If these are bulk-billed (for pensioners) this could perhaps save time for both doctor and patient.

And what will the doctors stand to gain? Patients who are using the knowledge and support offered to better manage their health and such conditions they may have. This may result in fewer and shorter visits, more time spent achieving positive outcomes than having to listen to the same old sad story. Many seniors are ‘experts on their own condition’ and do have a wealth of experience in coping – but we do need the relevant up-to-date information the doctor can provide.

Hope Alexander

December 2009

© Copyright Hope Alexander