How to Advocate for Your Child in a Doctor’s Office or Hospital

When your child is sick, you want the best care possible. I know this because I have 3 kids and have had thousands of visits. But navigating doctor visits and hospital stays can feel overwhelming. As a patient advocate I know as a mom, you are your child’s best advocate, ensuring they receive safe and effective care. Here’s how to speak up, ask the right questions, and ensure your child gets the care they deserve.

3 Steps to advocate for your child at the Doctor’s. 

The following steps will help you prepare and get the most out of each healthcare visit.

1. Prepare Before the Doctor’s Appointment

• Write down your child’s symptoms, concerns, and any medications they’re taking.
• Research common questions about their health condition. 
• Write down your questions to ask the doctor or nurse.
• Bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes about the conversation with the healthcare provider. 

2. Speak Up and Ask Questions 

• Use the “teach-back” method: Repeat the doctor’s instructions to confirm understanding.
• Ask about alternative treatment options and side effects of medications.
• Ask the name of the medication, its strength, how often to take it, things to avoid. 
• Ask if there are other non-drug measures to try first and if so, what to expect and when to check back. 
• Ask the Risk vs Benefit of the treatment plan
• Ask if there are other options or tests to do to rule out other conditions? 
• Request a written summary of the visit.
• Ask what the follow up should be and if things worsen what to do-where to be seen.
• If there is a follow up appointment -make it before leaving the office so you don’t delay follow up 

3. Trust Your Instincts as a Mom

• If something feels wrong, speak up-this is where researching and reading about the condition helps.
• If you are uneasy or unsure of what is being explained ask for it to be repeated or ask if you don’t know what a word means
• Be sure to explain your fear and/or anxiety -don’t hide your concerns
• Ask for a second opinion.
• Don’t be afraid to push back if a treatment plan doesn’t seem right.
• Document everything—times, dates, names of doctors, and recommendations.

You are the best advocate for your child when speaking to healthcare providers.

Advocating for your child in healthcare settings is essential. By being prepared, assertive, and informed, you can ensure they get the best care possible.