For my Sjogren’s patients, medical appointments can feel like a battleground where you have to hold the line and get strategic. It took me four years and four rheumatologists to get diagnosed. It can be rough out there! If you’ve ever heard frustrating comments like:
“A diagnosis doesn’t really matter.”
“Your labs are normal, so it must be anxiety.”
“You don’t need that test. Just exercise more.”
Please know you aren’t alone. Because this autoimmune disease is so misunderstood, diagnosis and care is often delayed. We need to be prepared to gently push back and aim for a more collaborative relationship with providers. And while we can’t control how they show up for an appointment, we can do our best to show up prepared.
In this workbook, I provide you with 7 simple one-liners to help you respond when your symptoms are minimized, you’re overlooked because your labs are “normal,” or your concerns are brushed aside. They’re designed to help redirect the conversation and help you stay involved in your care. Created by a board certified patient advocate who has been in your difficult shoes.
Get your free Sjogren’s advocacy phrases here.
Little Engine Patient Advocacy 
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