When to say NO in your health journey (with providers, procedures & medication)
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Aug 18, 2025
Discover the art of saying NO in your healthcare journey! Learn how to recognize red flags in providers and the importance of finding the right fit. Gain insights on when to decline unnecessary procedures and tests, empowering you to take control of your schedule. Explore the decision-making process around medications, including side effects and lifestyle impacts. This enlightening discussion encourages you to ask better questions and prioritize your well-being, giving you the confidence to advocate for your health.
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insights INSIGHT
Medical Idealism Fades With Illness
Patients often start with a naive faith that all doctors are flawless, but that belief erodes with experience.
Alex says developing discernment is essential once you live in the medical system long-term.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Fire Providers Who Shame You
Say no or seek a different provider if they make you feel demeaned or unsafe asking questions.
Find a clinician who listens and answers rather than shames you for asking.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Match The Specialist To The Problem
Avoid providers who lack education in your specific illness; specialists know deep, narrow fields.
Do seek the right specialist for complex chronic problems instead of relying on generalists for answers.
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This week on Calling in Sick we are diving into one of the least talked about and most important skills to learn in your medical journey... how (and when) to say NO! After 25 years of being the patient, I’m sharing where “not right now” has protected my body, my sanity, and my future.
We’re diving into:⭐ Saying NO to providers who aren’t a fit — red flags, finding your QB, and why “I can’t help you” can be a green flag
⚠️ Saying NO to procedures/tests you don’t need — scheduling on your timeline, avoiding repeats, and pushing back on “flare for testing” asks
💊 Saying NO to meds (or side effects) — black box fears, pregnancy considerations, trial windows, and when lifestyle impact outweighs benefit
If you’ve ever felt pressured to say yes because a white coat suggested it, this episode is your permission slip to pause, ask better questions, and choose what’s right for your life.
xx,
Alex
💬 Comment: What’s one “NO” (or “not right now”) that protected your health?
TIMESTAMPS:Intro:
00:00:00 Welcome back to Calling in Sick!
00:04:48 Alex’s Picks of the Week (Abercrombie, Rag & Bone, MOTHER Denim)
My Guide to Saying NO:
00:07:40 Intro to saying NO to medicine and doctors (+ a quick disclaimer!!!)
00:12:08 When to say NO to a provider
00:17:20 When to say NO to a procedure/testing
00:24:22 When to say NO to medications
Conclusion:
00:37:05 One Brain Cell Show: Wednesday (Netflix)
00:38:22 Thank you for listening!
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Alex’s Picks of the Week:Jeans that are comfy enough to pass as sweatpants, but dressy enough for *that* kind of doctor’s appointment!!
✨Abercrombie Boyfriend Jeans — https://go.shopmy.us/p-23220181
✨Mother Sweatpants Jeans — https://go.shopmy.us/p-23220571
✨Rag&Bone Sweatpants Jeans — https://go.shopmy.us/p-23220274
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