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Home › Articles › Health › Time to Talk

Time to Talk

Make the Most of Your Doctor's Visits

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Step 2: Stay on Topic
Limit your personal conversation and stick to the medical reason you're there. You expect your doctor to show you the courtesy of being informed. Show the doctor the same courtesy. It is your responsibility in this relationship to do the following:

  • Provide medical background information.
  • Answer detailed questions.

Step 3: Accept the Challenge
Challenge the doctor's opinion at any time if you think he doesn't understand you. Remember, you share the responsibility for the quality of health care you receive. Thus, be specific when you describe your symptoms. Get to the level of detail that helps your doctor understand your condition. This will help your doctor help you:

  • Tell the doctor exactly where and how it hurts.
  • If something is uncomfortable, let the doctor know.
  • Tell the doctor the truth. Do not dramatize or exaggerate. Don't downplay what's happening either.
  • Don't be embarrassed. This is your health!

Step 4: Be Honest
Lying or withholding information from your doctor will only delay proper treatment. Never assume your doctor knows what you're thinking or feeling. Your doctor is a trained professional. Think of this person as a mechanic for your body. You wouldn't be embarrassed if your car were leaking fluids, so don't be embarrassed to tell your doctor if your parts are not performing. Tell the doctor as precisely as you can what the problem is.

Step 5: Reflect on the Visit

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