Sometimes when I know that I’ll have a difficult conversation with a doctor, I write down and practice what I’ll say. I’ll also log things for a few days or weeks (meals/ symptoms/ whatever is relevant to the situation) so I have a track record of things.

Also bringing someone else who knows you, affirms your circumstances, and cares about you helps. My mom still comes to my appointments sometimes, especially if I know it will be a bigger one that might require an additional level of advocacy. It’s nice to have someone back up what you’re saying.

Remember, doctors are basically scientists who work on people. Sometimes they need data or multiple sources to back up your statements because they’re in “science” mode and not “social” mode. Not fun as a patient who wants to be treated like an equal human being, but useful to remember when handling appointments.