How to Talk to your Doctor

How do you talk to your doctor? Does he or she do all the talking while you do all the listening? Are you afraid to ask questions?
A basic plan can help you prepare for your doctor visit, whether you are starting with a new doctor or continuing with the doctor you've seen for years. There is no question that your relationship with your doctor affects your care. The best care comes from a good relationship where you share information and work together to decide the best course of action.
The following tips can help you and your doctor build a partnership.
Be prepared: Before going to the doctor, make a list of what you want to discuss and any questions you have. For example, are you having a new symptom you want to tell the doctor about? Mention any changes you have noticed in your appetite, weight, sleep or energy level.
Also tell the doctor about any recent changes in the medication you take or the effect it has had on you. If you have more than a few items to discuss, put them in order so you are sure to ask about the most important ones first. Bring a list of the medications you are taking and the dosages. Bring a pen and paper to take notes.
Consider bringing a family member or friend: Sometimes if you are discussing a serious illness, your anxiety can diminish your ability to clearly take in information. A trusted second person can listen carefully to the discussion and take notes.
Don’t hide anything: If you’re hindered by embarrassment or even denial, you will lessen your chances of being helped. If it’s too difficult to say, try writing it down and giving it to the doctor to read.
Get your medical records: Obtain records from previous physicians. Be familiar with your family history.
Keep a medical journal: Keep a medical journal and include:
1. your history, your family history
2. names and specialties of other doctors you have seen
3. Medications that were prescribed to you
4. Surgeries you have undergone
5. Vaccination history
6. Relevant X-ray and lab results.
Questions to ask your doctor:
7. What’s my diagnosis? What caused it? And how serious is it?
8. What is the name of the tests you are ordering and what is their purpose?
9. How will I get the results of these tests?
10. What treatment options are available?
11. Do I need to take medication? If so what are the side effects?
12. Are there any restrictions in my activity?
13. Is there anything I should watch out for?
What if different doctors you’ve seen disagree?
1. Get a third opinion. You have gotten a second opinion before undergoing surgery or any other risky medical procedure. But what if the opinions differ? If you see three doctors and two recommend a similar treatment approach, it is probably the right decision.
2. Find out which doctor does the procedure most often. A successful outcome for a procedure, and a better informed opinion, are directly related to how many procedures a physician performs.
3. Compare credentials. Physicians who are affiliated with a university teaching hospital, are often more knowledgeable about the latest scientific studies, pros and cons of new treatments and other factors affecting your treatment.
4. Remember that doctors don't know everything -- even the best doctor may be unable to answer some questions. There still is much we don't know about the human body, the aging process and disease. Most doctors will tell you when they don't have answers. They also may help you find the information you need or refer you to a specialist. If a doctor regularly brushes off your questions or symptoms as simply part of aging, think about looking for another doctor.
5. Trust your instincts. If you have gotten different opinions from two or more physicians, and all seem equally qualified, go with the person you trust and feel most comfortable with.
Good health care always depends on good communication with your doctor and other health professionals. I hope this article will inspire you to take an active role in your health care.