When to Speak Up: A Guide to Getting Better Care

Missed appointments, confusing bills, and that gut feeling that something isn’t quite right?

When you’re feeling this way, it’s important to say something—in fact, it’s your right to. 

If you’re feeling unsure about your current care provider, all of these little things that are starting to add up, or perhaps something more obvious…

Now’s the time to start a conversation. 

Every other week, we hear from people who say:

• “I don’t want to complain, but…”
  
• “I’m not sure if this is normal…”
  
• “It just doesn’t feel like the support we expected…”

And each time, we say the same thing:

“You’re allowed to speak up—and you can do this without burning bridges.”

Why? Because inquiring into your existing provider can make a world of difference to the quality of care you’re provided. 

To help you navigate this stage, here’s how to identify when it’s time to raise a concern (and how to go about it for achieving results—not resistance). 

How to know when something’s not right

Sometimes the signs are subtle, and sometimes—they’re staring right at you. In either case, here are the common red flags to be mindful of: 

• You’re being charged fees you don’t understand
  
• Care workers are late, inconsistent, or rushed
  
• Your care plan hasn’t been reviewed in months (or even years)
  
• The same issues keep popping up without any follow-up
  
• You don’t feel heard or respected

Even if your provider appears to mean well, experiencing any of these red flags is a clear sign that your care needs greater tending to (and of course, that you deserve better). 

A simple guide to expressing your concerns with confidence

1. Start with your coordinator

Your provider should have a primary contact or care coordinator—and it’s their job to care for your needs (so you should never feel like a burden). When starting this conversation, remember to keep calm, stay specific, and be inquisitive in a manner that’s well-received. 

You could try something along the lines of: 

“I’ve noticed a few things that feel off, and I’d really appreciate your help to understand what’s going on.”

2. Write down what’s happening (or get someone to help you take notes)

Make a short list of the issues: What happened, when, and how it made you feel—this makes it easier to later explain yourself, and helps to keep emotions in check.

3. Be clear about what you need 

Would you like an explanation? An apology? A different worker? Or simply—greater consistency? Expressing yourself with confidence equips your provider with clearer feedback and a fairer opportunity to grow and do better. 

4. Allow your provider a window to respond

Not all providers are created equal—and so it’s important to note, response times may vary. Nevertheless, you can still be proactive in our approach by providing a timeframe without sounding harsh. 

For example: 

“I’d like to touch base next week to see how we can move forward,” or, “I’d like to pencil in a time next week to discuss my current care—it’s important for me to have this meeting sooner than later.” 

Stating your needs using a warmer manner, is sure to welcome a more proactive response—and if it doesn’t, that’s a clear red flag in itself. 

5. Keep records of your conversation/s 

Like most important matters in life, it’s essential to document your progress. Having notes of past conversations, key contacts, and important details discussed, will significantly help you in keeping your provider accountable. 

And if your situation isn’t improving, this documentation will also help you to escalate the matter—or ultimately, switch providers (when final). 

Still not getting the care you need? That’s where we come in.

Whether you’ve spoken up and feel like nothing’s changing, or if you’re not sure or feeling confident enough to start this conversation – you’re not alone, and you should never feel this way. 

Our CareAbout team is here to carry the weight for you. For whichever stage you’re at, CareAbout empowers all people to: 

• Understand what support you should be getting
  
• Compare quality providers without a hard sell (we only present the best providers that we vet, know, and trust to care for you)
  
• Make a change, if needed, with no service gap fee or awkward call/s
  
• Advocate for stronger care, even if you decide to stay put

The best part? We provide this service FREE because accessing quality care is your right (not your battle). So if you’re ready to discuss what options are available, or simply gain a helping hand to navigate this conversation—we’re ready when you are.