Effective Physician Patient Communication
- Make a list of all your questions before the visit.clip board to do image by Nicemonkey from Fotolia.com
Researching your symptoms online may lead you to an informal diagnosis. While it may not be a correct diagnosis, it could help your doctor get a better idea of your condition. Share your research with your doctor and ask questions as needed. Dr. Jennifer Frank, a family physician at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, recommends writing a list of questions before your visit. A doctor visit usually lasts about 15 minutes. If you feel you have a lot of questions, be sure to tell the nurse when you make the appointment. She may be able to allot more time for the visit. - Bring your medications to your visit.medication image by palms from Fotolia.com
Don't assume your doctor knows everything about you before your visit. Be sure to bring your current medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. Let your doctor know if you also use any alternative medicines such as herbal supplements, suggests the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. If you have any old medical records, bring them along with your immunization records. All of this information will aid in your diagnosis. - From the start, let your doctor and his staff know the reason for your visit. It may be embarrassing, but everyone needs to be prepared to help you. Dr. Jennifer Frank says it is best to be upfront about what you would like to accomplish in your visit the second your doctor walks in. If you would like to discuss other matters that weren't noted when you made the appointment, bring them up as early into the visit as possible.
- Your doctor may come up with solutions that you are unwilling to pursue, such as quitting smoking, losing weight or medications that are out of your price range. If you are uncomfortable with your doctor's suggestions, say so, Dr. Frank recommends. That way, both of you can explore other options. You also may be able to find more affordable medication with your doctor's help.
- If you are having trouble understanding your doctor, perhaps due to a language barrier, you may want to bring a friend to help explain things to you. Let your doctor know if you have any reading difficulties as well. She may be able to draw simple pictures for you or provide information via video. Be sure you understand how to take new medications before you leave the office. When in doubt, call the office after your appointment to be sure you got all the information you need.
