Four Tips for Communicating With Your Doctor Effectively
A patient-doctor relationship is a sacred one and is built on trust and communication. Medicine can only go so far in treating your aches and pains; it is crucial that as a patient you feel comfortable in discussing with your doctor all of your symptoms so they can accurately prescribe the right treatment option.
In order to feel that you are being heard at the doctor’s, here are some communication tips to help your relationship thrive.
Set an Agenda With an Objective
Typical doctor’s appointments only last about 15 to 20 minutes, so you’ll want to ensure you speak about everything on your mind while you can. So you don’t forget anything, it’s always a great idea to set an agenda before you come in, with an objective that you want to reach during this time.
Ask as Many Questions As You Can
Your health is so extremely important, and you need to advocate for yourself in any way that you can. Be assertive and feel free to ask as many questions as possible, because your concerns deserve to be heard.
Be Honest
Your doctor is not there to judge you, they are there to make you feel better and to live a healthy life. So with this in mind, you need to always be honest with them about the questions they are asking you. Do not minimize any symptoms you are feeling, and do not tell “half-truths” when it comes to describing your daily lifestyle habits and actions. The more honest you are, the better your doctor can treat you with an appropriate solution.
Keep in Touch
Your treatment is a two-way street, and your doctor will love to see that you are invested in your health. Make sure to return for any follow-ups, look out for phone calls with results, and even sign up for an online portal to make your communication with them as easy as can be.
At Brookshire Family Practice, we want to create the best patient experience possible for you. Contact our team to schedule an appointment today.
