Working With Your Doctor

Before Your Doctor's Visit . . .

During Your Doctor's Visit . . .

Take Action

Quiz Yourself

According to the American Society of Internal Medicine, 70 percent of a correct diagnosis is based on information the patient tells the doctor. Yet, it's hard to think clearly when you aren't feeling up to par. The feelings of anxiousness and vulnerability that often accompany a doctor's visit can make communication difficult. Medical terms, tests and procedures can also add to your uncertainty.

Being prepared for a doctor's visit and knowing how to communicate effectively can help make each doctor's visit a more positive experience. And it can also improve the quality of care you and your family receive.

This guide will arm you with the skills needed to take greater control of your health and get the most out of your relationship with your doctor.

Before Your Doctor's Visit . . .

Imagine for a moment that a terrible cold lands you in the doctor's office. He or she asks, "How long have you been coughing?" "How long have you had an elevated temperature?" "When did the pain begin?"

Not knowing when the signs and symptoms of your illness or injury began can hinder your doctor's ability to make a quick and accurate diagnosis. These simple steps can help you prepare for a possible doctor's visit.

Record the changes you feel. Note the date and time each symptom or sign occurs and any details about the change. Pay attention to symptoms such as:

Changes in body temperature
Changes in breathing
Location and description of any pain you may be feeling.

Reflect on your situation. Think back. Has this ever happened to you before? Does anyone with whom you have been in contact with have any of the same symptoms? If so, make a note of this to share with your doctor.
Learn more about your problem Look in a home medical reference guide. Are there things you can do at home to make yourself more comfortable or prevent the problem from getting worse? Are there any signals you should be aware of that suggest you need to get medical attention?
Call your doctor if you have questions Tell him or her what your symptoms are. Ask what other symptoms you should look for and when and if a doctor's appointment is necessary.
Plan ahead a doctor's appointment is needed. Update your list of symptoms and bring it to your appointment. Write down what you want to learn from your doctor's visit and focus your questions around these concerns. Finally, make a list of any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking. This will assist your doctor if a new prescription is needed.

This process may seem like a hassle. But these simple steps can help you take charge of your health care. Having a good record of your symptoms will help your doctor more quickly identify your health problem and get you back on your feet. Our 4-Point Self-Inspection form is designed to help you to assess your health. Complete and print this form and bring it to your appointment. This information will support your doctor in making an accurate diagnosis and remind you of important questions to ask during your visit.

During Your Doctor's Visit . . .

Most doctor appointments last for only 10 to 15 minutes. Here are some suggestions to help you to get the most out of every minute.

State your main concern first. Studies show that most doctors formulate a tentative diagnosis within the first 30 seconds. So if the pain in your side is causing you the most concern, share that first. If you begin by talking about other health problems, you may forget to mention your main concern or lead your doctor toward the wrong conclusion.
Clear up any uncertainties. Don't be embarrassed to ask for an explanation of anything you don't understand. Ask the doctor to show you a diagram or chart to help you to visualize what is happening in your body.
Consider risks, benefits and cost of treatment Carefully consider the following:

What are the possible side effects of the medication?
What is the expected outcome of the treatment?
What are the risks associated with a watchful waiting approach.
Are there alternative treatments?

Be honest. If you have a hunch as to what is causing your illness, share it with your doctor. Tell your doctor if you feel frightened or confused. Let your doctor know if you can't follow the treatment prescribed.
Take notes. Bring along a pen and paper or tape recorder to record the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up plan. Read your notes back to the doctor to be sure you have the correct information. If your problem is more serious, consider bringing a friend or family member to take notes and provide support.
Keep your own medical records. Write down important information such as tests, lab results, vaccinations, prescriptions and allergies. Although your doctor keeps track of this information, it can be difficult for you to access quickly.

Putting these basic principles into action can help you to foster a good doctor-patient relationship. Once you leave the office its up to you to follow through. Print the My Health Information form and bring it with you to your appointment. Be certain to complete each section and file it in your personal records.

Take Action

Select at least two items from each list below and create your personal action plan. Refer to the plan the next time you or a family member has a health problem.

Pre-Visit Check List
	Monitor and record signs or symptoms that may signal a health problem as soon as they occur.
	Refer to my home medical reference guide and learn more about my problem.
	Keep my own medical records of tests, lab results, vaccinations, prescriptions and allergies in a safe place at home.
	Complete and print 4-Point Self-Inspection form and take with me to the doctor.
Doctor's Office Checklist
	Bring a friend or relative to the doctor with me to help me sort out information.
	Take notes and read them back to the doctor to confirm that I understand what was said.
	Inquire about all treatment options and identify risks, benefits and costs of each.
	Ask lots of questions. Request to see diagrams or charts if necessary.
	Record important feedback on the My Health Information form and keep in my personal records.

Quiz Yourself

Test your knowledge. Identify the correct answer for the following questions.

1. The only necessary information to record when you think you have a health problem is when signs or symptoms occur.

A. True B. False

2. Seventy percent of a correct diagnosis is based on the doctor's medical knowledge.

A. True B. False

3. Working with your doctor means listening to what the doctor tells you and following the doctor's orders.

A. True B. False

4. There is little you can do to plan ahead for a doctor's visit because you don't know your diagnosis until after the appointment.

A. True B. False

Go to the answer key and see how you did.

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