Working closely with your doctor is one of the most important things you can do to help you get and stay as healthy as you can.
But for many people, it's hard to do.
"Doctors are so busy. I don't want to bother them."
"The doctor's the expert, not me. I just listen."
"I'm afraid of saying something that isn't right."
"I'm actually a little scared of my doctor. He intimidates me."
But partnering with your doctor doesn't have to be a struggle.
After all, you have a common goal ... your good health.
Here are a few things you can do.
First ... be prepared.
"Before my visit, I write down what I want to say ... how I feel ...
and any symptoms I'm having.
I also write down the three most important questions I have.
This way I remember to ask what means the most to me."
Second ... don't be afraid to say what you think.
"I asked my doctor what he thought.
He told me his plan, and it gave me a good idea of what to expect.
Then I explained how I felt.
We talked about my feelings and changed the plan a bit.
Now I feel like it's our plan."
Here's a third tip: Always ask questions to be sure you understand.
"My doctor said I needed to schedule another blood test for next week ...
and I wasn't sure why. So I asked.
And now I understand how important this test is."
Finally, consider bringing someone with you to help ...
especially if you have trouble remembering or would like support.
"I bring my husband to all my appointments.
We both ask questions and take notes. We later compare them.
If there's a problem, I call up and ask about it."
A good partnership with your doctor means you both listen, you both talk, and you both ask questions.
Look at it this way. Your doctor is the expert on health.
You're the expert on you.
When you work together, you get your best health care!
