At any time during one’s life, an unexpected illness or injury may occur. Questions arise like — what do I have, why do I have it, what should I do, why should I do it, are there complications, side effects, how will this affect my life, my family, my work? Medical literacy and understanding of the healthcare system is variable. That’s when a patient advocate may be right for you.

In the ever-evolving landscape of medicine, a moral crisis looms large, casting a shadow over the noble profession of physicians in America. These dedicated healers find themselves grappling with ethical challenges that threaten the very essence of their medical practices. What has brought them to this precipice?

Medical gaslighting is when your doctor or other healthcare professional dismisses your symptoms, complaints, or even feelings, making you believe that they are not taking any of these seriously. As a result, you’ll begin to second guess that your problem even exists. We explain how to recognize medical gaslighting and what to do if you have been gaslighted by your doctor.

When it comes to your own body, you are the expert. The most important thing is to find a doctor who supports your active involvement in your care. Here are 10 tips to consider so you can get the most out of your appointment and have a treatment plan that’s right for you.