- Speak openly about your needs, questions, and concerns. Don't be embarrassed to ask your doctor to repeat or explain something.
- Keep a file or notebook of all the papers and test results that your doctor has given you. Take this file to your visits. Also keep records or a diary of all your visits. List the drugs and tests you have taken. Then you can refer to your records when you need to. Many patients say this is helpful, especially when you meet with a new doctor for the first time.
- Write down your questions before you see your doctors so you will remember them.
- Ask a family member or friend to go to the doctor's office with you. They can help you ask questions to get a clear sense of what to expect. This can be an emotional time. You may have trouble focusing on what the doctor says. It may be easier for someone else to take notes. Then you can review them later.
- Ask your doctor if it's okay to tape-record your talks.
- Tell your doctor if you want to get dressed before talking about your results. Wearing a gown or robe is distracting for some patients. They find it harder to focus on what the doctor is saying
"You need a
notebook because you go to the doctors and they're telling you things,
and you're so scared that you don't really listen. Then you get home,
and you can't even remember what they said."- Jake
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