VIDEO DESC/ TRANSCRIPT: TraciAnn is sitting by a corner. There is a Health Signs Center watermark on the lower right corner.

TEXT: Going to see your doctor

TRACIANN: When you go to see your doctor, the process may be a bit complicated, especially when you’re going to start going to appointments by yourself. Important tips to keep in mind:

TEXT: "Tips to remember" "#1"

TRACIANN: 1. You know your health best. Your doctor can’t feel what you feel, so it’s important to communicate everything, no matter how embarrassing. Your doctor will keep your information confidential. After you become 18, your parents or guardians will not have access to your medical information, including physical and mental health.

TEXT: "#2"

TRACIANN: 2. Learn about your family’s medical history. Knowing their health issues will be beneficial. Your doctor will ask you about it. For example, if your family has a history of cancer, it’s important to communicate that with your doctor so they can help you arrange for a proper screening process to catch any cancerous cells early. The earlier, the better!

TEXT: "#3"

TRACIANN: 3. You are NOT responsible to bring or pay for any accommodation. If you need an interpreter, deaf interpreter, captioning, or any other accommodation, let them know when you make the appointment. They are responsible to place the request and pay for it. The law requires effective communication and this is critical for you to be fully aware of what your health needs. For communication to be effective, you and your doctor must both be able to understand each other clearly. If your accommodation is not effective for you, for example, if an interpreter is hard to understand, you have the right to request for another interpreter or a deaf interpreting team.

TEXT: #4

TRACIANN: 4. If you experience any form of racism, audism or discrimination, or if the doctor does not ensure effective communication with you, don’t let that intimidate you. Think of healthcare like a business, so you’re the customer and they need to serve you to satisfaction and full health. Your health is important, not something to be minimized. Stand up and file a complaint with the ADA office, with your state’s health department, and the Department of Justice. You should be in full control of your health with full understanding. You can ask as many questions as you want! You got this!

TEXT: You got this!

Advocacy letters (may be helpful to share with your doctor if they need more information on accessibility): Link
Filing a complaint: Link