What Questions Should You Ask Your Doctor?
Before going to the doctor, do you ever think about what questions you are going to ask the doctor? You probably expect the doctor to be asking the questions, but consider making a list of questions to ask the doctor. Do not take anything for granted when it comes to your health care. Think about the doctor-patient relationship as being players on the same team. It takes participation from both team members to be successful. Make sure you know all the rules before you start playing the game.
What it considered reasonable questions to ask your doctor? It is reasonable to ask your doctor all questions when it comes to your health. There are really no boundaries. The saying “the only dumb question is the one that is unasked” certainly applies in this case.
If you have a medical condition make sure to ask for the specific diagnosis, and what was the criteria for making the diagnosis. For example was the diagnosis made based upon blood work, symptoms, etc.? Make sure you understand your particular course of treatment, and ask if it is the normal treatment protocol for your condition. And if not, make sure to ask for an explanation. Make certain you understand all medications and therapies that are part of your treatment, as well as your short-term and long-term prognosis.
Even if there you are lucky enough to have no medical conditions that require medical treatment, ask the doctor about specific results from lab test. Make sure you find out if there are any follow-up appointments or follow-up lab work requested.
You should ask for a copy of the reports from your blood work. These reports contain vital information and the patient has the legal right to this information; after all these reports are about you. Keep these reports in a safe place so that it can be referenced at a later date if the need arises.
Your relationship with your doctor is very important. The relationship with a doctor should be one of mutual respect. A doctor should listen and answer questions. Don’t let a doctor’s visit become overwhelming or intimidating. It is not only your right to ask questions, it is your responsibility to yourself to ask them. Your health might depend upon it.
Ellen Lane writes on college scholarships, health, online college programs, fitness, and other subjects.