University Library Offers Health Reference Services

Re:Dr. Google
Having no insurance does not mean you can’t have a primary care physician. As an RN I hear that all the time, but every single physician I have ever discussed unfunded patients with says that they would be more than happy to work with patients who can’t afford to pay the bill all at once.

If you can’t find a physician that will work with you please let me know. While I don’t know physicians all over the country I’m sure I know a nurse near you who knows a physician. Nurses have a grape vine too!

Not having health insurance is not a bar to having a physician, although many people would lead us to believe that it is.

Please also remember that there are other licensed medical professionals of whom you can ask questions. Pharmacists and nurses are wonderful information conduits. Pharmacists are ubiquitous and the ones I know who work in retail pharmacies are very happy to answer questions (though they prefer you come to the counter rather than call). They both say that it doesn’t matter to them if you get a prescription filled there or not. One of them remarked that they love to answer ‘good’ questions that should be directed to a pharmacist, it makes them feel more than a pill counter.

Nursing practice includes patient education. Many hospitals have ask a nurse serviuces, while the information from these sources may be limited because of liability concerns they certainly can get you pointed in the right direction and offer physician referrals if needed.

Please everyone remember that the one most responsible for your health is you. Working with a physician is a two way street, you must be honest with your physician, ask questions and share your concerns. Don’t be the kind of patient doctors despise, be honest, don’t wait until the last minute to call or see the doctor, don’t call for prescription refills Saturday at 11PM. Be the kind of patient that doctors love to see, follow the advice the physician gives you, take the medications given you as directed, don’t pressure the doc for drugs (antibiotics for colds, pain meds for minor conditions) that you simply want but don’t need, follow up as directed. If a physician treats you for free as some occasionally do a thank you note will be talked about all week, whereas a check from the insurance company for $8.32 for a followup rates little comment.