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<p>The new year is here, and it's time to decide what changes you'll make to have a healthy, happy 2022. One of the best things you can do for yourself, and your family is to take charge of your health care.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>Most people depend on different doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and insurance companies for their health care. It's a team effort, and you are the most important member of the team.&nbsp;</p>
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<p><strong>The Basics</strong></p>
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<p>You can improve your care and the care of your family by taking an active role in your health care. Take charge of your health care:</p>
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<p>Keep up with all vaccinations that are age appropriate</p>
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<p>Keep track of important health information</p>
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<p>Be prepared for medical appointments</p>
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<p>Ask your doctor or nurse questions</p>
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<p>When you visit the doctor, write down your questions ahead of time. Be sure to follow up after your appointment to get any recommended tests or lab work.</p>
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<p><strong>Take Action</strong></p>
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<p>Managing your health care is easier if important information is close at hand. It's a good idea to keep a personal health record. Write down:</p>
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<p>Your name, birth date, blood type (ask your doctor if you don't know) and person to call in an emergency</p>
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<p>Any history of illness in your family</p>
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<p>Dates and results of checkups and screening tests</p>
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<p>Lists of shots (and the dates you got them)</p>
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<p>Medicines you take, how much you take, and why you take them</p>
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<p>Telephone numbers and addresses of places you go for health care, including your pharmacy</p>
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<p>Take this information with you to the doctor.</p>
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<p><strong>Make the most of doctor visits.&nbsp;</strong></p>
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<p>Check out these tips for talking to your doctor:</p>
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<p>Tell your doctor about:</p>
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<p>Your family's health history.&nbsp;</p>
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<p>Your personal health history (illnesses, surgeries, allergies)</p>
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<p>Any medicines you take, both prescription and over-the-counter (including herbs or vitamins)</p>
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<p>Your health concerns or issues</p>
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<p>Health information you find on the Internet or hear from others</p>
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<p><strong>After your visit with your doctor</strong></p>
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<p>Call if you have any questions or side effects from medication. If you need to, schedule follow-up appointments for tests or lab work. Work on making the healthy changes your doctor recommends.</p>
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<p><strong>What about cost?&nbsp;</strong></p>
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<p>Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, will cover the cost of recommended screening tests and shots. Check with your insurance provider to learn what's included in your plan.</p>
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<p>Source: <a href="http://www.healthfinder.gov/prevention">http://www.healthfinder.gov/prevention</a></p>
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