Episode 60: How to Avoid Being a Victim of the American Healthcare System: A Patient’s Handbook for Survival - with Dr. David Wilcox

Do you have these questions? 

1) Insurance companies always deny my claims. 

2) Prescription drug prices are outrageous. I have to choose between feeding my kids or taking my medication.

3) Navigating the healthcare system is always complicated and leaves me wanting to pull my hair out

Truth is...You can be empowered to make better healthcare decisions. 

In this episode, we talk about:

• The complexities of the American healthcare system and what you need to know to make informed decisions.
• The importance of patient education for better healthcare outcomes.
• Discuss real life scenarios of patient errors that had significant impacts and what you need to know to make sure you or your loved ones are safe.
• The power of patient advocacy and empowerment in healthcare decisions.

Stay tuned for the eye-opening revelations find out how one book is empowering individuals to take control of their healthcare and avoid the pitfalls that could cost them financially and affect their quality of life. 

My special guest is Dr. David Wilcox

With 28 years of experience in nursing, hospital administration, and health care information technology, Dr. David Wilcox is a seasoned healthcare professional and advocate. His nontraditional journey, transitioning from manufacturing to nursing, reflects his unwavering commitment to patient advocacy and education. 

He is the author of "How to Avoid Being a Victim of the American Healthcare System: A Patient’s Handbook for Survival," David aims to demystify the complexities of the health care system and empower individuals to make informed decisions. 

His unique perspective, coupled with a passion for proactive patient education, positions him as a valuable resource for navigating the intricacies of health care.

• "Not knowing is very dangerous. It's when people come into the system and are just trusting it. That's usually the people that get hurt because they don't ask questions. ~ David Wilcox

The key moments in this episode are:

00:01:05 - Empowerment through Education

00:07:45 - Nontraditional Journey

00:09:40 - Patient ID Bracelet

00:12:35 - Being a Partner in Healthcare

00:14:09 - Delayed Antibiotic Administration

00:15:47 - Importance of Research in Healthcare

00:17:15 - The Impact of Informed Decision-Making

00:18:19 - Healthcare Resources and Cost

00:21:24 - Accessing Care Despite Financial Constraints

00:27:14 - Importance of being an informed patient

00:28:33 - The impact of being informed on healthcare costs

00:29:50 - Resources for healthcare advocacy

00:31:53 - Advocacy in healthcare and using resources

00:33:14 - Future advocacy plans

Resources:

“How to Avoid Being a Victim of the American Healthcare System: A Patient’s Handbook for Survival (2021)” available at https://www.amazon.com/dp/0578878364

Dr Wilcox’s website: Dr. David Wilcox - Healthcare, American Healthcare System (drdavidwilcox.com)

Dr. David Wilcox Free Resource Guide Resource Guide (drdavidhelps.com)