What's Up Doc?

whatsupdoc

Article Submitted by: Jenna Vaught

Ever leave your doctor’s office and wonder if you asked the “right” questions, received enough “one on one” time, or even understood the doctor’s instructions? Surely, I cannot be the only forgetful one in the bunch! The physician-patient relationship is a vital one. Finding the “right” doctor, asking the “right” questions, and giving the “right” information seem like a piece of cake right? Hardly! Here is my advice on how to get more out of your next visit, beyond the fact that we all hate that weird tissue paper to sit on.

Bring all your prescriptions with you!
Be prepared to answer questions about your past and family history.
Ask for educational handouts.
If your treatment plan is detailed, ask the physician to write the plan down.
Write down questions you have for the doctor before the visit and then ask!
Comply with all labs and x-rays the physician may order.
Follow up on labs, tests, or x-rays if you have not heard back from the doctor.
Problems with your doctor? You don’ t feel a connection? Consider finding a better fit. Ask friends, visit the American Medical Association physician finder, or search the web. Search the nearest “great” hospital for doctor’s associated with that hospital.
Educate yourself and be prepared for your next visit.
Difficult diagnosis? Not getting good results? Seek a second opinion.

Your health is everything. Getting the most out of your time with the doctor is important. Gone are the days where we can leave everything up to the physician. Divas, we must take responsibility of our bodies. The doctor serves to provide care, give advice, and treat. It is up to us to apply the treatment and follow thro ugh. Not getting anywhere? Feeling that your condition is not getting better overtime? It never hurts to seek a second opinion. Bottom line,act like a Girl Scout, and BE PREPARED!

Jenna Vaught is the former 2007 Miss Plus America Elite. She lives in Cleveland, Ohio with her daughter Kyla. Being a beauty queen is not all she has going for her, she is also a fourth year medical student. Although becoming a doctor was always a dream for Jenna… her desire to finally obtain a healthier lifestyle was even more important. With over 25 years of struggle with a serious weight problem, she hit the scales at 427 pounds. Jenna knew something had to change. Since that point, she has lost 190 pounds. Obtaining a more active lifestyle has really allowed Jenna to find herself as a woman, embrace her plus-sized frame, and given her a new life! As Miss Plus America Elite 2007, she used her reign to encourage all sizes to find a place for fitness and health in their life. As a future doctor and fitness advocate, she encourages all healthy adults to find new and unique ways to squeeze activity into their day. First hand, she knows what simple lifestyle changes can do for your life! Variety is the key to her success in exercise. From jogging, walking, hiking, swimming, strength training, crosstraining, and even Jazzercise…she enjoys them all. Jenna has even completed a 10K and half-marathon!

Despite losing 190 pounds, she is still a plus-sized beauty that loves every inch of her fuller frame. During her transformation, she redefined what beauty, confidence, and success meant to her life. Jenna has a belief system that does not allow TV, Hollywood, or ANY form of the media to dictate what is beautiful or not. As a result, she believes that women should start celebrating their life in this very moment…not 10, 30, or even 100 pounds from now! Beauty is not a size or age, and the key to feeling amazing about your life is learning to love yourself at this exact instant. Her advice, take the time to find yourself all over again! Jenna enjoys sharing this message in public appearances and speeches throughout the year. Traveling is another passion she could never live without. Her favorite locations are Paris and the Maldives. When she is not studying medicine or speaking, she finds time for herself by shopping, reading, writing, blogging, and even a little plus-sized modeling. She hopes you will enjoy her advice and tips on exercise. Always feel free to contact Jenna with any comments, advice, or article ides at www.jennavaught.com