Physical and Mental Care

First:  Make a list of the names and specialties of all your doctors with their phone numbers.  Place a star or asterisk next to the primary physician.  Keep the list handy and bring to all health-related visits.

Ask your doctor(s) the following questions:

I Diagnosis  Names of diseases/conditions?

II Prognosis What is the expected quality of life with the specific treatment plan for the various conditions?

III Treatment Plan   Your doctor will provide a prescription for one or more of the following: 

   

1. A.Medications       see next page for more
   

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2. B.Physical therapy- provided as outpatient, inpatient or at home
   

    exercises to improve strength, balance, and conditioning

100. C.Occupational therapy- provided as outpatient, inpatient or at home
     

    exercises to improve strength and coordination of fine motor skills to better interact          with individual home environment

D. Speech therapy-provided as outpatient, inpatient or at home

    exercises to improve speech and/or swallowing function

E. Medical supplies 

     walkers, wheelchairs, canes, catheters, drainage bags, intravenous lines, hospital beds, etc.

                                      

Ask your doctor, therapist, social worker, or insurance company:

1. 1.What are the logistics in starting the treatment plan?
   

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2. 2.What are the exact details of each element of the treatment plan (how long)?
   

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3. 3.What are the out of pocket costs? insurance coverage?
   

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4. 4.What is required to obtain the various medical supplies? Where do you get them?
   

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5. 5.How do I develop an emotional support network?
   

If you have any comments or suggestions please email me at

mzwebes@gmail.com