Are you ready to take charge of your health?
People with Spina Bifida often have special medical needs. Right now, your parents may take the responsibility for making sure these needs are met. But your parents will not always be around to help you, and there may not always be a clinic close by where you can go to get help.
Just like any teenager, you need to begin to understand all about your body, and to learn how to make medical appointments and know when and how to get help. Since you have Spina Bifida, these skills are even more important.
How ready are you to start taking charge of your own health? See if you can answer "yes" to most of these questions.
Self-care Checklist
- Do you call to schedule your own medical and dental appointments?
- Do you have a doctor who is knowledgeable about Spina Bifida, and who understands your needs?
- Can you describe symptoms in a way that your doctor can understand?
- Can you often tell the difference between health problems that can wait till your next scheduled appointment, and problems you should call about right away?
- Do you ask your doctor clear, honest questions?
- Do you call your doctor or pharmacy to refill prescriptions when needed?
- Do you carry your health insurance card with you?
Did you answer "yes" to most of these? Then you're doing a great job, and moving towards greater independence.
If you answered "no" to many of the questions, talk to your parents. Tell them that you want to start taking more control over your health care. Work together to get started. Soon, you'll have the confidence to take charge of your own health care needs.
Related Links:
Back to Your Body and Health
Back to SPINAbilities: A Young Person's Guide to Spina Bifida!
To find out even more about living well with Spina Bifida through your teen and young adult years, order a copy of SPINAbilities.
