How to play an active role in your health (and why it matters)

Missed screenings, skipped refills, and delayed doctor visits can turn small issues into bigger health problems over time.  

Here’s the good news — Staying connected to your care doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple steps can help you stay on track and feel more confident about your health.  

Here are a few easy ways to stay connected to your care community.  

What is care coordination — and why does it matter? 

Care coordination means making sure all the pieces of your health care work together smoothly. It's about keeping your providers connected, staying organized, and making sure nothing falls through the cracks — from test results to prescription refills to follow-up appointments. 

When your care is well-coordinated, you get: 

• Timely updates on test results and next steps 

• Better communication between your doctors 

• Fewer missed screenings or skipped medications 

• Confidence that someone is keeping track of your overall health 

You don't have to manage this alone. Your primary care provider (PCP) and your health plan all play a role — but staying actively involved in your own care makes the biggest difference. 

Partner with your primary care provider 

Your PCP is central to your care. They  keep track of your overall health, coordinate with specialists, order tests, and make sure nothing gets missed. 

Make them your partner: 

• Schedule an annual wellness visit to review your health and create or update your care plan 

• Share a complete list of all medications (including over-the-counter items, like pain relievers and allergy meds) and supplements you take regularly 

• Tell them about all specialists you see and any symptoms or concerns 

• Discuss test results and what they mean.  

• Register for any patient portals your PCP uses to get digital copies of test results and provider messages. 

Stay organized with a care plan. A care plan is your roadmap, especially if you have a chronic condition or see multiple providers. It’s something you’ll receive after every annual wellness visit or annual physical. It should include your health goals, medications, upcoming tests, and who to call with questions. Review it at every visit and update it with your doctor as needed. 

Tip: Many doctors offer digital care plans through patient portals like MyChart or Healow. Ask which one to download and where to find your plan. 

Stay on top of results and follow-ups. Here are a few smart ways to stay active in your care plan: 

• Use your patient portals  to check test results as soon as they're available 

• Set calendar reminders for follow-up appointments, tests, and medication refills  

• If you're referred to a specialist, make sure the appointment gets scheduled — don't assume it will happen automatically 

Get to know your pharmacist  

Ask questions — that’s what they’re there for. Pharmacists are medication experts. They can explain how and when to take your medicines, help manage side effects, and check for interactions. Asking questions can help you feel confident and avoid surprises.  

Advocate for your health 

Being an active participant in your care means speaking up and asking questions. Here's how: 

Before appointments: 

• Write down questions or concerns 

• Bring a list of current medications 

• Note any new symptoms 

During appointments: 

• Discuss your health goals 

• Ask questions if you don't understand something 

• Request written instructions or next steps 

• Confirm when you should expect test results 

After appointments: 

• Follow up if you haven't received promised results  

• Contact your provider if symptoms change or medications cause side effects 

• Keep a folder (digital or paper) with test results, care plans, and important health information 

Bottom line: Staying connected — to your doctors, your benefits, and your pharmacist — can help you take charge of your health and avoid bigger problems later.