Before the appointment
- Write your top three questions and bring them on paper.
- List every medication, supplement, and dose you take.
- Note when symptoms started and what changes them.
- Decide who is coming with you and what they will track.
New flagship experience
Self-Advocacy Center™
Learn to ask better questions, understand your rights, communicate effectively with your care team, and become an informed partner in every healthcare decision.
Four pillars of confident advocacy
Understand Your Rights
Learn about informed consent, medical records, second opinions, HIPAA, and patient rights.
Learn CenterCommunicate with Confidence
Conversation starters, advocacy scripts, and practical guidance for real healthcare situations.
Phoenix GuideSupport Caregivers
Resources designed for the family members and caregivers advocating alongside loved ones.
Caregiver preparation
Practical guidance
Before, during, and after every appointment
During the appointment
- Ask: “What are my options, and what happens if we wait?”
- Ask: “What is the goal of this test, and how will it change the plan?”
- Repeat the plan back in your own words before you leave.
- Ask for the name and spelling of any diagnosis or procedure.
After the appointment
- Request your visit summary and test results in writing.
- Confirm follow-up dates and who is responsible for scheduling.
- Save documents and notes together so nothing is lost.
- If something still doesn't fit, organize a second opinion.
Know your rights
What you are entitled to ask for
Educational information only — not legal or medical advice. Rules can vary by state and by facility.
Informed consent
You are entitled to understand the benefits, risks, and alternatives of a treatment — including doing nothing — before you agree to it.
Access to your records
Under HIPAA you generally have the right to inspect and receive a copy of your medical records, usually within 30 days of your request.
A second opinion
Asking another qualified clinician to review your case is a normal, expected part of medical decision-making — not a challenge to your care team.
Privacy of your information
Your health information is protected. You can ask who has accessed it, request corrections, and choose who may receive it on your behalf.
Advocating for someone you love
Caregivers carry the questions, the calendar, and the context. The Decision Center includes a caregiver briefing you can build in minutes and share with the rest of the family.
Built by a patient who learned the hard way that self-advocacy can change everything.