Weight stigma and healthcare
Have you ever felt like your doctor treated you differently or made unfair assumptions about you because of your weight?
Yes. Had knee surgery and dr repeated many times he didn’t know if the surgery will work because I am a big girl. Last thing before surgery and 1st thing I heard coming out. Had lost 147 lbs before this and weighed 165 at the time.
How awful! Aside from all the other disturbing issues this situation touches on, it frustrates me when doctors fail to recognize that joint pain can LEAD to weight gain and that relieving that pain can lead to weight loss. I hope you recovered quickly and fully and left that doctor stunned. Gentle hugs. - Lori (Team Member)
Yes, recently had surgery and felt it in every encounter. It snuck up on me, suddenly every doctor was offering weight loss info and Obesity was listed as one of health problems in my medical records. 220 lbs. Currently embracing a high protein diet. Non weight-bearing for 3 months after femur surgery, so exercise
Is impossible.I get that doctors need to mention weight since excess weight impacts your health, but enough is enough. If it's already on your chart, then they should know your primary care doctor has already addressed it with you. I am sorry you had to deal with that at every turn. How is your recovery going? Sending lots of healing vibes your way. - Lori (Team Member)
Absolutely! Every doctor or even dentist I've encountered. Instead of helping me, they just make matters worse, and I DO avoid going because of it!
Hi
. That is so wrong. I wish you could find healthcare providers who make you feel comfortable. You deserve respect, compassion and empathy. Do you have friends who also struggle with their weight? If so, I wonder whether it would be worthwhile to ask whether they like their doctors. Gentle hugs. - Lori (Team Member)
Yes and I've straight up confronted them about it. And they admitted it!! I'm a nurse and we are taught not to judge people and were taught that they are gonna be people we won't like for whatever reason, yet it's our oath to take care of them to the best of our ability. It's sad not all healthcare professionals remember or do this.
How awesome that you advocated for yourself,
, and how especially awesome that you got results. The patients you care for are truly fortunate to have you in their corners. - Lori (Team Member) what in the world did they say when asked? I could never..
