Talking to Your Doctor: Play an Active Role

To get the most out of your health care, take an active role. This means thinking of every doctor as a partner in your care. Below are things you can do to help that partnership go smoothly.

To get the best possible care, you need to be honest with your doctor.

Your doctor has a limited amount of time to spend with you. If you can't discuss all your concerns, schedule a follow-up visit.

Keep in mind that your doctor is used to talking about personal matters.

Try to be in the moment and not think about what your doctor said 5 minutes ago or what you will say next.

When you write down what you hear, you listen more carefully. You don't have to write down each word your doctor says. Just write down the main points. Bringing a family member or friend to take notes may be helpful. Ask your doctor if you can record your conversation.

Making eye contact shows you're listening. And it helps you get more out of the discussion.

Say something like “What I hear you saying is...” This shows you're listening and understanding. And it gives your doctor a chance to correct any mistakes.

If you can't make it, call as soon as you know.

When a patient is late for an appointment, it can throw the doctor and their staff off schedule.

Call your doctor if you're going to be late. Ask if it's okay to come late, or if you should reschedule.

For some medical tests, you need to not eat or drink (called fasting) for a certain period of time before the test. For others, you need to take medicine. Be sure you understand how you need to get ready for your medical test.

Your doctor may give you instructions about things such as medicine use, tests, diet, or exercise.

Whether your medicine makes you sick or you can't give up junk food, let your doctor know. Together, you may be able to solve the problem.

If you're receiving treatment, ask your doctor which over-the-counter medicine you can take.

Know the name of your medicines, why you need to take them, and how long you need to take them. Any side effects should be reported. Ask if there's another treatment you could try instead of medicine. If adding a new medicine, ask if you really need another medicine. Don't take more or less than your doctor prescribed. Don't stop taking your medicine without talking to your doctor first.

If you're seeing a specialist, ask them to let your primary doctor know how you're doing.

Find out if there are certain times during the day when your doctor takes phone calls, or if they prefer a different way to communicate. Ask who to call if you need an answer right away.