Avoiding Hospitalization, Diagnostic Procedures, and Surgery

For those people living with a chronic disease such as HIV and AIDS, there is always a chance that they will be admitted to the hospital, need a diagnostic procedure, or need surgery in their lifetime. However, these things should not be taken lightly. When the doctor says it's time to be admitted or says you need a surgical or diagnostic procedure, be certain that those options are what's best for you. Before agreeing, ask your doctor these four questions.

1. How necessary is admission or surgery?

Certainly there are situations where hospital admission or surgery is necessary. But many times, there are options that are not surgical or do not require hospitalization. Talk with your doctor and ask just how necessary hospitalization or surgery is.

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2. What are the alternatives to surgery, diagnostics or admission?

Outside of life-threatening emergencies, there are almost always alternatives to surgery, diagnostic testing, or hospitalization. Make sure your doctor outlines those alternatives for you before you consent to the more invasive route. In order to make an informed choice, you must have all the facts first.

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3. What will the diagnostic tests show?

Before agreeing to a diagnostic procedure, ask your doctor what he or she hopes to find out from the test. Many times, diagnostic test results are inconclusive and spawn other diagnostic tests. Excessive testing could potentially lead to unnecessary treatment. Before agreeing to that test, ask your doctor exactly what it will show and what the next step will be if it is inconclusive.

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4. Could I get a second opinion?

Again, unless there is a life and death situation, there is time to request a second opinion. Most insurances will cover the cost of a second opinion. If the issue in question is outside of your doctor's specialty, ask him or her for a referral to a specialist. For example, if you are having liver complications, ask your doctor to refer you to a liver specialist.

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_Source:

Brant, J. "Is Your Surgeon Scamming You?"; Men's Health 6 Jun 2007.