If you’re about to have an appointment with your doctor, you should know that it doesn’t matter whether it’s your first or your fiftieth time seeing them—you are still the most critical person in the room. Knowing medical terminology gives you the power to understand better what’s happening during your appointment and to get the treatment you need. 

These are five ways knowing medical terminology can empower patients, so read on to learn more!

1) Speak Up at Your Next Doctor’s Appointment

When you know the medical terms for what’s going on with your body, you can more accurately describe your symptoms to your doctor. If you’re ever in the hospital, you’ll be able to understand what the medical professionals are saying about your care. By understanding your test results and diagnosis, you can take a more active role in your healthcare.

2) Decipher Your Bills

When you get a medical bill, it can be challenging to decipher. However, if you know some medical terminology, you can often figure out the charges. This can help you budget for future appointments and get the necessary care. 

There’s also a chance that you might come across something fraudulent or erroneous in your billing. Knowing the language of healthcare will also allow you to do your research on treatments. This, in turn, may save time and money in terms of being an informed consumer.

3) Do Your Research

With so much information available online, patients are increasingly taking control of their health. But with all the medical jargon, it can be tough to know where to start. This is where understanding medical terminology comes in handy. By understanding the language of medicine, you can more easily find the answers you’re looking for. This information is also helpful when doing research on your own or when talking to a doctor.

4) Educate Yourself About Illnesses

No one wants to be sick, but unfortunately, it’s a part of life. Learning about illnesses can help you better understand your health and the health of your loved ones. By understanding medical terminology, you can better understand doctors’ orders, medications and treatments, diagnoses and prognoses, and what your insurance will cover. 

It is also an empowering way to speak with healthcare providers on the phone or in person. If you can discuss with them what is going on with your body in their language, they will feel more confident that they know how best to treat you.

5) Use Words to Understand Procedures

If you don’t know the medical terms used to describe a procedure, it can be difficult to understand what is happening. However, understanding medical terminology can help you feel more comfortable with procedures and make it easier to ask questions. Using words to understand procedures when conversing with your doctor or provider may initially seem intimidating. 

Still, you will be surprised by how much of this language will come naturally when you begin looking up new words. If you remember these words, you’ll be able to take charge of your health care, understand your treatment plan, and even ask better questions about how you’re being diagnosed, so that every part of your care is tailored to your needs.

In Summary

If you’re ready to take charge of your healthcare and empower yourself with knowledge, enroll in a course offered by Avidity Medical Design Academy. You’ll learn the medical terminology to communicate effectively with your care team, understand your medical bills, and how to do your research. And while you’re at it, why not stock up on some scented soaps and candles from our online store? Visit Avidity Medical Scentations for more information on our scented soaps and candles. They make great gifts for the patient in your life!

Check out our website or contact us for more information about our training programs. We look forward to hearing from you!