The patient-physician relationship is one of the most important partnerships you will have in your life. You'll be sharing important personal and confidential information about your health, lifestyle and medical concerns. And, when your doctor suggests a treatment, screening or drug, you should be able to ask questions and be a partner in decisions that impact your health and pocketbook.
Make a decision checklist of what type of doctor and office you prefer. Once you've selected a physician, tour the potential doctor's location. Did you meet and like the doctor? Do they have the specialists you need there? Are walk-ins available? Is it convenient to get to? And are there other services on-site, like lab work or a pharmacy? When your doctor recommends a drug, treatment or test, be sure to ask if it's appropriate for you.
To help guide your discussion with your doctor, we've included a list of articles below from "Consumer Reports" and other patient friendly groups.
Watch our video, Being a partner with your doctor.
To help guide your discussion with your doctor, we've included a list of articles below from "Consumer Reports" and other patient friendly groups.Information from the Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality
- Be More Involved with Your Care This brochure gives you tips to use before, during, and after your medical appointment to make sure you get the best possible care. Select for a card to list the questions you want to ask during your medical visits. Patients who talk with their doctors tend to be happier with their care and have better medical results.
- Questions to Ask Your Doctor Asking questions and providing information to your doctor and other care providers can improve your care. Talking with your doctor builds trust and leads to better results, quality, safety, and satisfaction.
Quality health care is a team effort. You play an important role. One of the best ways to communicate with your doctor and health care team is by asking questions. Because time is limited during medical appointments, you will feel less rushed if you prepare your questions before your appointment. - Patient & Clinician Videos In these short videos, patients talk about how simple questions can help you take better care of yourself, feel better, and get the right care at the right time. Doctors and nurses talk about how your questions help them take better care of you and give advice on how you can be an active member of your health care team and get your questions answered.
- Create Your Own Questions for the Doctor Be prepared for your next medical appointment. Create a list of questions that you can take with you whether you are getting a checkup, talking about a problem or health condition, getting a prescription, or discussing a medical test or surgery. Whatever the reason for your visit, it is important to be prepared. With the Question Builder, it is easy.