After medical tests, be self-advocate for your health

Dear Heloise: I read the letter from the reader about medical tests, and it hit a raw nerve. I must respond.

I, too, have been a victim of medical misinformation and test results not given in a timely fashion. You may be aware that you’re entitled to a copy of test results (here in New Jersey). Please look into it in your state. I never take medical tests without asking when the results will be available, and then I pick up a copy. I call my doctor, and many times the doctor has not yet received them. I also fax a copy to my other doctors so that they have the most complete records for me as possible.

Compile a list of all of your doctors, and make sure all of them get a copy of your information.

Keep a copy of all of your medical records at your home, just in case! If you suspect a medical condition, research information about it so that you can ask informed questions.

You must be a self-advocate when it comes to your health! It may not be the doctor at fault — it might be someone on his staff, an employee of the insurance company or even an employee of an intermediary company with no medical training who makes decisions about what tests you may or may not have.

Please don’t misunderstand — there are many good medical people out there, but this is a fast-paced world, and sometimes the people that they must rely on are not equipped to make the best decisions. C.M., via e-mail

All good points! It’s vital to be your own doctor and keep copies of medical reports and tests, if possible. Heloise

Dear Heloise: We have found that black nail polish makes an easily applied, easily stored and inexpensive touch-up paint for shiny finishes. We’ve used it on tile and black screws. It might not work on surfaces that will get very hot. Jean I., Athol, Idaho

Dear Heloise: Am I the only one who is appalled at the lack of manners of today’s cell-phone users? I have a cell phone but do not use it frequently. I hear the nastiest conversations about private matters, which are audible to everyone in the area. I notice families and friends in restaurants where all are on cell phones talking or texting but are not communicating with their companions. I work for a regional transit agency and often hear so much use of profanity and rudeness.

And we all know the danger of talking and texting while driving, but I continually see drivers engaging in these activities. Have we all become so important that we do not value free or quiet time without phones and conversation? Anne, via e-mail

Dear Heloise: I have found that before doing filing, if I apply hand lotion, I rarely get a paper cut. Barbara F., Hagerstown, Md.

SBlt Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, or you can fax it to (210) HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.

King Features Syndicate