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Right Choice Index

Page Contents
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.. Who has multiple
.medical problems
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..Consequences
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..Most Common
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..Best diagnosed
and treated
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..Questions to ask
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Site Contents
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..Patients & visitors
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..Medical professionals
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..Yale-New Haven
.Children's Hospital
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.Yale-New Haven Hospital
.20 York Street
.New Haven, CT 06504


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Right Choice News Letter.
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What To Do If You Have Multiple Medical Problems

Individuals with two or more medical problems that require the care of separate physicians are said to have multiple medical problems. The combination of medical problems can create additional risk.

Who has multiple medical problems?
Millions of Americans have multiple medical problems. An example is someone who has arthritis, diabetes and is recovering from a stroke. The percentage of Americans with multiple medical problems increases with age, ranging from 10 percent for those 0-19 years old to almost 80 percent for those 80 and older.

What are the consequences of having multiple medical problems?

  • Treating one problem can affect other conditions.
  • Diagnostic tests, procedures or drugs for one condition might create unexpected negative side effects that affect other conditions. Treatments need to be managed together to prevent harmful interactions.
  • Patients with multiple medical problems are more likely to have complications, spend more time in the hospital, need more resources and are more likely to be readmitted than patients with one problem.
  • Patients with multiple medical problems are less likely to be satisfied with their quality of life.
  • Surgery and other treatments for one problem are often delayed until the second problem is addressed.
  • Patients often require the collaboration of several specialists to effectively manage multiple medical problems.

What are the most common diseases that patients with multiple medical problems have?

  • Arthritis
  • Cancer
  • Depression
  • Diabetes
  • Epilepsy
  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Lung/respiratory disease
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Stroke

Questions to ask your physician

  • Will new drugs be introduced during my treatment? Are they likely to interact with current prescription drugs? What are the side effects?
  • Is it likely two or more doctors will be involved in my care? If so, who, and can I meet them?
  • Are complications likely, and if so, what are they?
  • Is special nursing care needed, such as that provided in a cardiac unit or intensive care unit?
  • How will my care be coordinated?
  • How experienced are the doctors in working together?
  • How experienced are these doctors in handling the combination of problems I have?
  • How quickly will I get better?
  • Should I get a second opinion?

Last revised: Jan. 14, 2008 (jy)


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All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.