How to Talk to Your Doctor

Visits to the doctor's office can leave us feeling very vulnerable. This doctor has seen parts of you very few others see, and has knowledge about your body that you don't understand. It is normal to feel intimidated when talking with your doctor. However, with a few easy tips, one can lessen the anxiety.

Plan ahead. Decide what you need to tell your doctor, including any symptoms you might be experiencing, any changes in your medication history, any new allergies, or any concerns you might have. If you need to, make a list. It helps not to forget something you wanted to mention. It's also a good idea to write down any new instructions your doctor gives you to follow, especially if medication is concerned.

Remember your doctor is busy person. Ask any questions you need to ask, but don't get into long lengthy discussions that are off topic. Your doctor wants to know about your backache, but doesn't care about Aunt Betty's heart palpitations. Likewise, your doctor should not consistently keep you waiting for long periods when you have an appointment. If this becomes a problem, speak to him or her about it. Be on time for your appointments and don't miss an appointment without canceling, at least twenty-four hours before if possible. Many physician's offices are beginning to charge for missed appointments that are not canceled and these charges are not paid by insurance.

Ask for clarification. If your doctor speaks to you about a medical term you are not familiar with, ask him or her to explain to you what is meant by that term. It's fine to say you don't understand or you need further information to grasp what he or she is saying.