Fr Laurie also reminded us how much the priests value our presence and support especially when we accompany them to their doctor’s or specialist’s appointment, particularly when an appointment is for a serious health issue.
Being at the appointment is also valuable for the health coordinator, as not only do we gain an understanding of the health issue and all its implications, we can then help the priest by answering his questions and concerns.
Recently I accompanied a priest to an appointment with his cardiologist. Our appointment followed a series of investigative procedures and the priest was sure he would need to undergo potentially risky surgery. Naturally he was very nervous.
When I arrived at his home to collect him I could see that he was really anxious and quite shaky. We took our time making sure his home was securely locked, and most importantly, that he had his keys with him to ensure he was able to get in on our return.
Sitting in the waiting room must have seemed like an eternity for him, and I hope my company and support helped make his waiting a little easier.
When we finally met with the doctor, it was good news! The health issue was not as dire as first thought, and surgery was not required. I watched the priest as the doctor was talking to him and I could just tell that he didn’t seem to be taking in what the doctor was saying.
When we got outside the office, the priest turned to me and said, “So, what did he say?”
Anxiety distracts us and unsettles us. No wonder this man was not able to take in what was being said.
Handy Tips
Some tips to help you when you are faced with a difficult doctor’s appointment.
1. Ask your Clergy Care Coordinator to accompany you.
2. Know your own health.
It is very frustrating for both the patient and the doctor to meet face to face and then begin piecing together the problem. Prepare yourself for the appointment by thinking about your symptoms, how long you have had them, their severity etc.
3. Write down everything you want to ask and bring the note with you.
Remember, It is easy to “go blank” when we’re worried and anxious. In many cases it is only after we have left the doctor’s office that we remember what we really wanted to ask and then we may be too embarrassed to call back. Bringing a pen and pad to write down what the doctor says is also handy.
4. Don’t be afraid to stop the doctor.
It is important you stop the doctor at any stage if you are feeling overwhelmed by the information you are receiving or if the doctor is using terminology with which you are unfamiliar. Ask your doctor to slow down or ask for an explanation in “laymen’s” terms. It is always a good idea to ask where you can get more information on your condition or symptoms if you feel you would like to know more.
5. Try not to look up condition up on the internet.
As tempting as it may be to do your own ‘investigating’ it can actually turn out to be quite frightening! Always consult your doctor or health professional and please try not to be persuaded by well meaning parishioners who offer alternative treatments and their opinion of what they think is wrong with you.
Get the right advice from the right person. That is your doctor – the expert!
Food For Thought
What if you are just going to the doctor for a normal check-up?
I hope you are all doing this on a regular basis – and well done to those of you who are! We health professionals know that men are less likely to visit their GP and are less likely to seek preventative assistance. Having a good GP is very important and this can sometimes be neglected if you are moving around from parish to parish. It can also be awkward for some if your doctor is one of your parishioners.
If you are reading this and think to yourself: “I don’t have a GP”, please do something about this immediately! Visiting your GP regularly and building a good rapport with him (or her) is an important to ensuring you maintain good health.
The Good News
Discussing your medical history and your family’s medical history with your doctor will help construct your medical profile. Many diseases that may lead to premature death are nowadays preventable through regular health checks and by adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Ththe early detection of diseases, often before symptoms are obvious, usually prevents more serious problems arising. By discussing your lifestyle and the ways this affects your health, your doctor can develop a plan that will include diet, exercise and ways of dealing with stress.
Your Clergy Health Care Coordinator is only a phone call away!
Anthea Boden
Archdiocese of Adelaide
