Communicating With Your Doctor - A Guide to Doing It Right by Becky J. Sisk

Do the possible side effects of a medication bother you to

the extent that you are unlikely to take it?

Here are suggestions to help you get the most accurate information

and cooperation from the doctor:

* Ask a friend or family member to come with you. Take notes

during your visit, take a tape recorder to record the doctor's

instructions, or insist on a written explanation.

* You have the right to an explanation of your condition that

you understand. Important questions to ask are: "What is

wrong?" "What is the cause of my condition?" "What are pros

and cons of treatment options?" "How do I know if I need to

call you or come back to see you?"

* If you do not understand the doctor's explanation, say so.

If the doctor has gone on to the next patient, ask the nurse to

provide an explanation for you or provide you with pamphlets

about your condition.

* Make sure you understand the action and side effects of any

prescribed medication. Find out how often to take the pill,

whether you can take it during a meal, and any other special

instructions. If you get to the pharmacy to fill the prescription

and realize that you still do not understand how to take it, ask

the pharmacist for help. Pharmacists are expert at patient

teaching, particularly about medications. If you get home and

still do not understand what is wrong with you or how to

cooperate with treatment, call the doctor's office and talk to

the doctor or nurse.

* Ask the doctor for thorough explanations of the preparation for

laboratory tests, x-rays, and other procedures. Results are

more accurate, and the test does not need to be repeated, when

you are appropriately prepared.

* Get acquainted with your insurance plan and how to access

care. Some doctors' offices are set up to help you with

insurance matters, but not all. Bring your insurance card

and any forms that may be necessary, and be prepared to make

a co-payment, usually about $10.00.

* Remember that even the best doctor cannot cure everything.

You must do your part, too, by following these tips and

taking responsibility for your own health.

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BIO:

Becky Sisk, PhD, RN, is your Wizard at "Promoting Good Health for Seniors,"
http://wz.com/health/PromotingGoodHealthforSeni.html/
and webmaster, NurseScribe, http://www.enursescribe.com/.

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