As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, I am thankful for the freedoms of speech
and religion that have shaped our great nation. But today, let’s celebrate another important
freedom – the right to make informed decisions about our own healthcare. Compared to many
countries with government-run healthcare systems, we have it good. Americans generally have
greater freedom to choose their providers, seek second opinions, and select from a wider variety
of treatment options like complementary or alternative therapies. In comparison, patients in
countries with centralized healthcare may face longer waits for procedures, restrictions on
provider choice, and even limited access to treatments that are not approved or funded by the
government. Since we are blessed with an opportunity to be empowered participants in our
health journey, let’s make the most of it.
It begins with choosing healthcare providers who align with our values. Healthcare is deeply
personal. Seek providers whose approach resonates with your beliefs and goals.
When evaluating a healthcare provider, consider:
– Do they listen carefully to your concerns?
– Do they respect your preferences?
– Do they explain options clearly?
– Do they encourage your active participation in decision-making?
While your doctor offers guidance and expertise, ultimately you make the daily choices that
influence your health. With freedom comes responsibility. Simple habits such as regular exercise,
nutritious eating, adequate sleep, stress management, and avoiding tobacco can have a profound
impact on long-term vitality. According to the CDC, chronic diseases are the leading cause of
illness, disability, and death in the United States, and most are preventable through healthy
lifestyle choices. Do your part at home.
Consider adding a variety of professionals alongside your medical doctor to create a wellness
team. Enlisting the help of a chiropractor, nutritionist, physical therapist, massage therapist,
acupuncturist and/or mental health counselor can move you away from a sick-care approach into
a whole-body wellness paradigm.
Don’t be afraid to seek second opinions and explore your options. Healthcare is rarely black and
white. If you are facing a major diagnosis, surgery recommendation, or long-term treatment plan,
exercising your right to a second opinion can provide valuable insight and greater confidence in
your decision. Gather multiple perspectives, and remember, a good rule of thumb is to try less-
invasive options first.
By far the most important freedom you have as a patient is informed consent. Before agreeing to
a medical procedure, treatment, vaccination, medication, or diagnostic test, you have the right to
understand the researched benefits, risks, alternatives, and potential outcomes. Don’t ever
hesitate to ask questions. Bring a loved one or trusted partner with you to share in the
conversations with your provider. If you do not fully understand a recommendation, ask
questions until you do. Consider asking:
– What are the benefits of this treatment?
– What are the possible side effects or risks?
– Are there alternative options?
– What happens if I choose not to proceed?
Healthcare decisions should never feel rushed. Taking the time to gather information and
understand your options allows you to make choices that align with your values and goals. Do
realize that informed consent also means you have the right NOT to consent – you can say no.
Lastly, true healthcare freedom includes planning ahead. Now is the time to create an advance
directive if you don’t already have one. Deb Bess Morneau, attorney at Courteous Law, PC in
Henniker explains, “An Advance Directive for Health Care allows you to appoint someone you
trust to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to communicate your wishes. It also
provides guidance regarding your preferences for medical treatment, helping to ensure that your
values and choices are respected during a medical emergency or period of incapacity. Without an
Advance Directive, family members may face uncertainty, delays, or even court involvement
when important healthcare decisions must be made.”
Completing an advance directive is not about expecting the worst. It is about preserving your
autonomy and ensuring your voice is heard even when you cannot speak for yourself.
Attorney Morneau says, “Obtaining an Advance Directive is a simple process. An attorney can
help you prepare a document that complies with New Hampshire law and reflects your personal
wishes regarding medical treatment and decision-making. The document is then signed and
witnessed, giving your healthcare providers and loved ones clear instructions should the need
ever arise.”
Although many people postpone these conversations, creating an advance directive ensures your
wishes are known and respected. This helps prevent family disagreements during difficult times
and provides everyone involved with peace of mind.
As we look ahead to the 4 th of July, honor one of our nation’s most cherished principles: the
freedom to make informed decisions about your own life. In healthcare, that means becoming an
informed participant rather than a passive recipient of care. Don’t wait for illness to occur, take
ownership of your personal health now. Understand your rights as a patient, seek trustworthy
information, choose your providers thoughtfully and plan ahead through that advance directive.
In a nation founded on the principles of liberty and self-governance, exercising freedom in
healthcare may be one of the most personal—and powerful—expressions of independence.