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A Guide to Surviving American Healthcare
Helene M. Epstein • Patient No More
Writer. Author. Speaker. National advocate for patients and families. Lived diagnostic error and medical harm experience as a patient and caregiver. Healthcare Journalist. Advisor to clinical and medical studies and surveys.
Claim your free subscription now to read her serialized book A Guide To Surviving American Healthcare. (Two new chapters drop every month.) Follow her on LinkedIn • Facebook • Website
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The New Improved Patient No More:
A Guide to Surviving American Healthcare
I’ve learned a great deal about surviving the American healthcare system –– the hard way –– by making a lot of mistakes, as a mother, daughter, wife, and as a patient. While I’m now able to apply what I’ve learned, I realized that most of what I know has never been compiled and shared. Until today.
JAN 17 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 1: How Bad is the American Healthcare System, Really?
It Helps to Know What To Watch Out For.
Falling through the large cracks of our medical system is far worse than being late due to traffic. Here’s your road map.
JAN 31 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 2: The Very First Thing You Should Do, Today
The easiest weapon against misdiagnosis is in your phone.
The number one cause of misdiagnosis is inaccurate or missing data. And you hold the key to fixing much of that in your hand or your pocket.
FEB 14 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 3: I Just Want To Feel Better
What's a Diagnosis and Why Does It Matter?
A primer on the most important medical question to answer.
FEB 28 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 4: How To Prepare For A Medical Emergency Now
Just a few steps can help you maintain some control
MAR 14 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 5: How To Shop For The Best Primary Care Doctor
Caveat: If you can find one accepting new patients.
Six steps to finding your next PCP.
MAR 31 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 6: Hunting The Elusive Top Specialist and Surgeon
Finding a top specialist is easier than getting in to see one.
APR 15 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 7: Top Five Things To Do Before You See Your Doctor
We want to be healed. We want to be heard. We want our doctors to care about doing both. We deserve it. But patients also have a responsibility.
APR 30 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 8: Specialists Have Blind Spots.
How To Avoid Being Harmed By Them.
Why it happens. How to be seen as a full human being.
MAY 16 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 9: Medical Testing Secrets
What You Need To Know And Do When Your Doctor Orders Tests.
Questions to ask and pro tips to use to protect yourself.
MAY 30 2025 • Helene M. Epstein
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Chapter 10: Gaslighted, Dismissed or Ignored By Your Doctor?
Nine Ways To Make It Stop
All three are dangerous to your health. Learn the difference, how each one happens and why, and nine steps you can take when it happens to you or someone you love.
JUN 13 2025 • Helene M. Epstein