Listen to Your Body

Aloha,

I hope you all are enjoying this holiday season! It seems every year I tend to have some surgery or illness around this time, and this year has been no different. Last week I had a surgery which reminded me how important listening to your body and staying in tune with what happens in order to live your best life.

Have you felt something was wrong and later learn you were right? You know your body best and can sense when something is not right. Had I not listened to my body, I would not have known I had cancer and infections. So much happens internally, it is hard to know what exactly is going on from the outside.

Your body needs the basics including food, water, and air to survive. Have you ever had your body crave anything in particular? For instance, my body will crave protein or water if I haven’t had enough throughout the day. If you have any cravings, including unhealthy foods, listen to your body as it is needs something!

Recently, I listen closely how much my body can do after surgery. The recovery process is always brutal needing to slow down and heal. If your body is in any type of recovery (i.e. surgery, illness, etc.), listen to your body. You must rest and avoid pushing yourself too much while the road to recovery. It is a process and if you don't listen to your body it will make the process even longer.

As you pay attention to your body, you can stay in tune with something that may be wrong and ultimately save your life. I believe I have saved my own life a few times knowing something is not right and requesting doctors to look further. You know your body better than anyone else so listen and live your best life!

Keep Smiling,

Melissa

Contact us at (801) 796-7667 or info@danpursermd.com for help. Check back often for the newest updates!

Twelve Traits of a Good Doctor

Aloha!

Each of us have experiences with good and bad doctors. Having a good doctor in your corner, aligned with your needs and preferences, is key in a long-lasting relationship to make health a priority and to stay healthy. A good experience is not only with the doctor, but with all staff (reception, nurse, etc.). Careful consideration will help you avoid wasting time and energy.

Recently, I have been in search for a primary care doctor. I reached out to my oncologist office for recommendations to fill prescriptions and annual exams. When I scheduled an appointment, I requested a female physician for the visit. However, when I arrived a male physician was scheduled for my annual checkup among other topics of discussion. Unfortunately, this was the beginning of the complications during this visit.

We need to remember choosing a physician is our choice. What should we look for when deciding? Below are twelve traits I learned from Habits of a Great Physician  by Dr. Purser to look for in a physician when considering my options:

1. Affability – My physician needs to be easy to approach

2. Affordability – I look for physicians who bring the most value while staying in my budget

3. Availability – If I have complications, I need easy access to advice

4. Kind - Gentle in nature and desire to help others is an important characteristic

5. Listener – Taking the time to understand one’s situation, feelings, and symptoms is crucial

6. Compassionate - Feeling or showing someone is there who cares for you

7. Empathetic - Understands and shares experiences and emotions

8. Long-Suffering – Extremely patient during difficult times

9. Energetic – Will never stop to find a solution for your symptoms or diagnosis

10. Brave – Thinking and acting clearly in the face of difficult situations

11. Curious - Desire to learn or know more and not satisfied with simple answers

12. Persistent - Lasting perseverance through the good and bad times

Fortunately, my oncologist exemplifies these twelve traits. When I went through my difficult stretches during cancer treatment, he didn’t allow me to give up. Many times, he convinced me to keep fighting and to give it one more chance. He was at the hospital each time I was admitted, always checking in throughout my stays. He listened to my concerns and discussed them with me. By having someone who was a listener, available, compassionate, empathetic, long-suffering, brave, and persistent made him the best doctor. He is a huge part as to why I am cancer-free today.

Do not be afraid to be selective when choosing a doctor. Always remember it is okay to walk away if you are not comfortable with the doctor you visit as it is your health and life you need to protect. There are many other doctors who embody these twelve traits and can help you in more ways than you can imagine.

Keep Smiling,

Melissa

Contact us at (801) 796-7667 or info@danpursermd.com for help. Check back often for the newest updates!