PatientLead POV
Building systematic infrastructure for healthcare navigation
We share insights on self-advocacy frameworks, strategic communication, and the realities of navigating complex or invisible illness. Each post offers practical perspectives rooted in evidence-based approaches, trauma-informed care principles, and the lived experiences of patients building their own healthcare leadership capabilities.
The Ecology of Care
How Trust, Time, and Trauma Interact in the Exam Room Every medical appointment happens inside an invisible web of forces. What you say, what your provider hears,…
The Hidden Advantage of Using Your Patient Portal Strategically
The Hidden Advantage of Using Your Patient Portal Strategically Your patient portal isn’t just a convenience tool for appointment scheduling and prescription refills. It’s a powerful advocacy…
Why Your Energy Crashes Might Be Mast Cell Activation, Not Just Fatigue
Why Your Energy Crashes Might Be Mast Cell Activation, Not Just Fatigue Many women living with chronic conditions know the feeling all too well: one moment you’re…
Beyond PMS: Understanding the Reality of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Beyond PMS: Understanding the Reality of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) “It’s not just PMS.”‘ A phrase that countless women have uttered while trying to explain something that…
When Elite Female Athletes Face Chronic Illness: Navigating the Intersection of Strength and Vulnerability
When Elite Female Athletes Face Chronic Illness: Navigating the Intersection of Strength and Vulnerability The starting gun fires. Heart rate spikes. Muscles engage with practiced precision. For…
Creating Your Personal Healthcare Team
Creating Your Personal Healthcare Team: Who You Need and How to Find Them Your health is too important to navigate alone. While the traditional model of healthcare…
Your Complete Guide to Requesting a Second Opinion
Your Complete Guide to Requesting a Second Opinion: Scripts, Strategy, and System Navigation Seeking a second opinion is one of your fundamental rights as a patient, yet…
Gaslighting Recovery
The Gentle Art of Medical Gaslighting Recovery: Rebuilding Trust in Your Own Body When healthcare systems fail us, the journey back to self-trust begins with recognizing that…
Borderline Personality Disorder: Beyond the Stigma
Borderline Personality Disorder: Beyond the Stigma Imagine walking into a doctor’s office, finally ready to seek help for the emotional turmoil that’s been consuming your life, only…