A traumatic experience can change the way you relate to other people and your environment, and this can affect your healthcare experiences.Recently, healthcare providers have become more aware of the need for trauma-informed healthcare, which is a way of caring for individuals who have experienced trauma.There are a number of things you can do to get trauma-informed care if you have had a traumatic experience.Pick a healthcare provider who you feel comfortable with and specify any special needs you have.Ensure that your needs are met during any routine exams, tests, and procedures by communicating with your healthcare provider.
Step 1: You can find a healthcare provider who makes you feel comfortable.
You don't need to see a healthcare professional who is not comfortable with you.Look for a different healthcare provider if they aren't sensitive to your needs.If the person has experience providing trauma-informed healthcare to patients, you should research them.You can ask over the phone or use an online profile to determine this.Sex is one of the criteria you may consider when selecting a healthcare provider.This can help you narrow your search if you prefer a female or male doctor.The languages are spoken.If you want a doctor who can speak with you in your native tongue, then look for doctors who are proficient in that language.There is a cultural background.If you would like to see a doctor who is sensitive to your cultural background, then you might want to look for one that is the same nationality as you.
Step 2: Discuss trauma with your healthcare provider.
When you meet with a new healthcare provider, tell them that you need trauma-informed healthcare.You don't have to elaborate on why.Let them know that you need trauma-informed care considerations included in any exams, tests, or treatments you receive.You could say something like, "I have a history of trauma, so certain types of tests and exams are frightening for me."Is it possible to accommodate this during any routine care that you give?
Step 3: Ask for good communication during the checkup.
Communication with patients is one of the main ways that healthcare professionals provide trauma-informed care.A healthcare provider who is trained in trauma-informed healthcare practices will let you know what they are going to do.If this would be helpful for you, please let your healthcare provider know.You could say, "It upsets me when I don't know what's happening."Can you tell me what I need to do before I go for a checkup or other type of treatment?
Step 4: When facing healthcare issues, ask to be told about your options.
Patient agency is an important part of trauma-informed healthcare, but some healthcare providers tend to tell patients what to do rather than give them options.Let your healthcare provider know that you don't want to be told what to do.You could say, "It's important for me to remain in control of my body, so I'd prefer to be given multiple options when facing a healthcare decision."
Step 5: Bring a trusted friend or family member with you.
It is possible to feel more comfortable when you have someone you trust with you.Inform your healthcare provider that you think getting routine care might be easier with a trustworthy person there.If there are any tests that are difficult for you, let them know that you would prefer to have a close friend or family member with you.If you want your significant other to be allowed in the room for the portion of the checkup you are concerned about, you can request it.If you have a problem with needles, you might ask if you can bring a friend with you when you need to get your vaccines updated.
Step 6: Discuss any special needs you may have with your healthcare provider.
Share what triggered your trauma with your healthcare provider.They may be able to know when to be careful and sensitive to your needs.Tell your healthcare provider if you have an issue with people touching your neck due to a traumatic event.Sometimes they need to touch your neck, but they can let you know what they are doing and stop if you are too uncomfortable.
Step 7: If you don't feel comfortable, change healthcare providers.
If you are not comfortable with the healthcare provider, you don't need to stay with them.You don't need to explain why you can change providers.If you don't feel comfortable with your healthcare provider, you can either call your doctor's office or cancel and go somewhere else for healthcare.You can say, "I would like to change my appointment and see Dr. Gonzales instead."I'm changing healthcare providers.
Step 8: If you're having trouble with the effects of trauma, tell your doctor.
If you don't think things are getting better for you, you may want to reach out to your doctor.A support group for people who have experienced trauma is one of the resources that they can refer you to.If you are experiencing any symptoms of trauma that are interfering with your day-to-day activities, such as: Difficulty functioning at work, school, or home, tell your doctor.