A Team Approach to Your Health

A few weeks ago, one of our friends had a revelation.  For over 50 years she has struggled through the challenges of being a diabetic, countless insulin injections, many stays in the hospital, and now, her most dreaded fear, dialysis.  Yet recently, during this difficult time of dialysis, she had her greatest revelation.  She said for all those years she always relied on the expertise of doctors to treat each issue as it arose, but never considered how SHE was supposed to be part of that equation too! She didn’t fully understand HER part in treating her condition.  For the first time, it fully resonated with her that doctors can only do so much. Without her cooperation and active participation in her health, their efforts would never lead to full healing.  It was a wake up call! With this new understanding, she has made significant changes in her food choices, exercise habits and more.  Now her only regret is not realizing all of this sooner, when it could have made an even bigger difference in her quality of life for a greater number of years.

This story resonated with us because too often we see a disconnect between patients and the variety of medical professionals who are helping them.  We feel it is not only important, but absolutely critical to approach prosthetic and orthotic care with a TEAM APPROACH.  A collaboration involving doctors, patients, physical therapists, care takers, and prosthetic/orthotic clinicians.  We strive to have open lines of communication.  This commitment is one of the reasons EastPoint is one of the only providers to offer mobile services.  Not only is it convenient for the patients, but, for example, when we can actually join the patient while they are with their physical therapist we are able to better understand their needs and address issues right away.  When mobile services are not available, we are still committed to being open and available to talk with the other key parts of the healthcare team and work together to create the most productive outcomes possible.

We realize, however, our role is only one part of the equation. If you have not already, we challenge you, like our friend I mentioned before, to consider how vital your own part is in managing your healthy outcome.  What can you do or change to improve your situation, and how can others involved in your healthcare help? Please contact us any time if you have concerns or questions.  We want to help you become the best and healthiest version of yourself that you can be.