Tag Archives: serious illness

Illnesses

Practical Checklist for the Serious Illness Journey

Here are a number of check-lists for the journey to help you think about, plan and prepare for all the different aspects of having a serious illness:

Consultations and Appointments: Ask the Questions you want Answered

Write down a short list of the most important questions you want answered before each and every consultations and appointments. Areas and topics you may want to ask about include:

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ILLNESS

  • Is there a diagnosis, and what further tests are needed
  • What is the disease, and what are the main symptoms
  • What are the main treatment options, and also where and when
  • What is the time period for treatment, and how long until you get better
  • What are the main side-effects and other major problems about treatment
  • Where do you find out more about your illness.

 

QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR HEALTHCARE SERVICE

  • Who are the available specialists
  • What are the local success rates dealing with your illness
  • Do you want to ask for a Second Opinion

 

QUESTIONS ABOUT LOOKING AFTER YOURSELF

  • How far should you try (and are going to be able) to continue with your ‘normal life’.
  • What extra care is available, and how do you go about  getting it.
  • What is the best nutritional care for your condition, and who can provide the best advice.
  • What other approaches can you use to help you, and who are the best people to ask about this (it may not be the doctors).
  • What can complementary and alternative medicine contribute to treatment and your wellbeing.