Daily HealthBeat Tip

Take charge of disease

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I'm Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

When a doctor gives you really bad news, it can feel like the disease has taken charge of your life. But you are still in charge � and, with knowledge, you can get care you need. That's why the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality created a booklet,"Next Steps After your Diagnosis."

The agency's director, Dr. Carolyn Clancy:

"The purpose of this booklet is to help consumers become better informed and become active partners in their own health care." (six seconds)

Some key ideas:

Take the time you need; don't rush important decisions.

Get the support you need from family, friends and people who've have had the same condition.

Learn from reliable sources about your health problem and its treatment.

Make sure you understand your doctor, your doctor understands you, and you both choose a treatment plan that meets your needs.

Learn more at www.hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I'm Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: October 27, 2005

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