There are many things to consider when choosing the right professionals to guide you and your family in the management and treatment of a bleeding disorder. You obsess over every bump, tumble and scrape, and expect the doctors and nurses taking care of you or your child to do the same. Here are some important factors to consider when it comes to picking your pros:
Become familiar with hemophilia treatment centers – Unlike primary care physicians, hemophilia treatment centers (HTC) are federally funded organizations that specialize in helping to manage and treat bleeding disorders. In addition to providing comprehensive care, HTC medical professionals such as doctors, nurses and other staff, are trained to educate families affected by bleeding disorders on things like nutrition, how to make a home safer, schooling, how to find a job and more. HTCs are generally known to serve a higher purpose by extending their services to all aspects of medical, emotional and lifestyle support when it comes to individuals fighting hemophilia.
Foster relationships with your doctors and primary specialist – Picking a doctor is hard enough, but add in a chronic bleeding disorder and it becomes a whole new ball game. When it comes to hemophilia, there is no short-term solution. Therefore, the most important factor to consider when deciding on primary care physicians and specialists is selecting those who are willing to commit to a doctor-patient relationship. Your doctors should be willing to spend one-on-one time to educate you on treatment options, explain various test processes and outcomes, provide an honest and realistic set of goals and feedback regarding treatment and management, and consistently follow up on your condition with recommendations.
Don’t forget about your lifestyle and fitness pros – It is a common misconception that individuals with bleeding disorders cannot enjoy an active lifestyle. On the contrary, regular exercise, especially in the form of Pilates and yoga can help increase joint strength, flexibility, mobility and overall stability, which prevents injuries. However, it is important to find instructors and personal trainers who know and understand the risks involved when coaching individuals with bleeding disorders, and tailor their training methods to fit those needs. If you ever come across a fitness professional who tries to convince you to work harder than you know you should, discontinue training with that individual or establishment.
What tips do you have for those selecting medical professionals? Feel free to share them with us.
Sources:
Hemaware – Hemophilia Treatment Centers 101: http://www.hemaware.org/health-wellness/taking-charge/hemophilia-treatment-centers-101
ITP Blood Disorder – Choosing the Right Doctor: http://www.itpblooddisorder.com/blood-disorder/choosing-the-right-doctor-for-your-blood-disorder/
Hemaware – Help Your Joints with Pilates: http://www.hemaware.org/health-wellness/fitness-nutrition/help-your-joints-with-pilates
Hemaware – Yoga for People with Bleeding Disorders: http://www.hemaware.org/health-wellness/fitness-nutrition/yoga-for-people-with-bleeding-disorders