Full Transparency
by Ngozi Osuagwu, MD | November 21st, 2021

I remember early in my career, a patient had asked me how old I was. I told her that it was none of her business. She replied, “Isn’t that funny, you ask me all these personal questions and you do not want to answer a simple question.” I responded, “If telling you my age was going to get you to follow my health advice, then no problem, I will tell you my age.” Since that interaction, I have realized how important it is to be transparent. I cannot ask anyone to do something that I am not willing to do.
Here is my ask:
- Get your COVID vaccine booster – If you have not gotten your COVID vaccine by now, I do not have much more to say. You can click here to get more information. I have now moved on to the booster. It has now been approved for all adults. I got my booster vaccine on November 11, 2021. Some people have asked me whether they can mix and match. I have read that it is safe to do, however, I did not. I got the Moderna initially and I got the Moderna booster which is half the dose of the initial vaccine.
- Get your flu vaccine – Last year the number of people getting the flu was low. I believe that was because we were all at home and when we left our house, we were masked. More people are outdoors now and not everyone is wearing a mask. This year’s flu season is supposed to be really bad. I got my flu vaccine on November 5, 2021.
- Schedule your annual well-woman exam – If you do not remember when you last saw your gynecologist, it is probably time for you to schedule your appointment. I saw my gynecologist on October 15, 2021. I also have a primary care physician and I am already scheduled to see him early next year. The easiest thing to do is never leave your health care provider’s office without scheduling your next appointment.
This is the season of gratitude. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your life.
Wishing you and those who hold your affection a Happy Thanksgiving Day.
Thanks for your transparency! Understandably, the age question is one many women do not want to answer. My take on it is, whether I answer it or not, it IS my age:-). I proudly own it:-)
I love your take on the question about age.