|
When dealing with major medical problems, every patient will eventually have a health question for their doctor that is uncomfortable to ask. It is not uncommon to have medical conditions that cause problems with sex, mobility, anxiety, depression or other topics that may be embarrassing. Here are some helpful suggestions to consider to help you talk to your doctor: BEFORE THE APPOINTMENT: 1. Realize that most patients have some symptoms or problems, regardless of their illness, that are difficult to talk about; 2. Keep a daily log of symptoms -- what are the symptoms, when did they start, when/how often do they occur, what makes them better or worse, do they affect sleep, eating and/or regular daily activities; 3. Write out a list of questions you want to ask at the appointment, starting with the most important; 4. Make a list of your medications -- you should take this to EVERY appointment; 5. Ask yourself, “What’s the most embarrassing thing I could possibly ask?” Chances are, your doctor has been asked this before and can handle it without making you uncomfortable; 6. Remind yourself that when you are comfortable with your doctor and your treatment, you are more likely to follow through with recommendations. Research shows that people who are more proactive about their healthcare tend to feel better. DURING THE APPOINTMENT: 1. Keep these questions in mind: Does my doctor… Give me a chance to ask questions? Really listen to my concerns? Make me feel at ease with difficult issues? Answer in words I understand? Show respect for me? Ask me questions to gather more information? Address the health concerns I came in with? Ask me my preferences about treatment options? Spend enough time with me? 2. Honesty is especially important when you are asking difficult questions. Remind yourself during the appointment that your doctor has most likely dealt with this issue before. The doctor’s main interest is in helping you feel better. 3. Tell your doctor you are nervous about the things you want to ask. A good doctor will be able to help you talk about it and ask you the right questions to put you at ease. 4. Ask the questions you wrote down before the appointment. Take notes while the doctor is talking to help remember important information. 5. Ask the doctor to draw a picture if this will help you. This is the way doctors learn and teach other doctors, so it is not a silly request. 6. Ask if your problem is common or normal for your medical condition. 7. Ask about the prognosis -- if your problem can be treated and the likely outcome of the treatment. 8. Make sure you understand the diagnosis, treatment options, benefits and risks of treatment and the cost of treatment. Write this information down. 9. Ask if there are good books, brochures, support groups or referrals to other professionals that can help you. AFTER THE APPOINTMENT: 1. If you were referred to another specialist, call and make an appointment. 2. If the problem does not improve in the expected time, call the doctor. 3. Get additional information (books, brochures, internet, etc.) to further educate yourself. 4. Call the office if things get better -- they want to know that, too!! 5. Trust your instincts, but remind yourself that it takes time to develop a trusting relationship with your doctor. The following is a useful resource for more information on this topic: Talking with your Doctor: A Guide for Older People (29 pages, free). Suggests ways to discuss health concerns, medicines and issues important to older people. From the National Institute on Aging Information Center, 1-800-222-4225.
|
