Make the Most of Your Doctor’s Visit
12/3/2014
Is it time for your kids’ yearly check-up? Do you have an upcoming appointment for a check-up of your own? Maybe it’s time to give your medical communication skills a check-up, too.
Without good communication with your doctor, how can you expect to receive the quality of care you expect and deserve? Here are some simple tips to ensure that you and your doctor are communicating clearly and correctly.
- Explain the reason for your visit. Is it a routine check-up or something else, such as an illness or injury? A flare-up of a chronic condition? Try to be as specific as possible about why you’re there.
- Disclose all medications you’re taking and therapies you’re receiving. This includes prescription medications, herbal remedies, over-the-counter medications or alternative therapies. This is important to mention as there could be contraindications, i.e., medications and/or supplements that counteract each other or put your health at risk when taken together.
- List your concerns and questions.
- Take notes. Bring a pad of paper and pen.
- If you have difficulty remembering or are encountering any difficulty communicating, consider bringing a friend or relative to your appointment to help you communicate and gather information. Make the most of your doctor’s visit.
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Remember that this information is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor, but rather to increase awareness and help equip patients with information and facilitate conversations with your physician that will benefit your health.
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