How To Maximize Limited Time With Your Doctor

Getting the information you need is important for your health. Ask:

• Your list of questions and concerns, with the most important items first. Don't wait until the end of your appointment -- bring them up right away. Don't just ask such a general question as "What will happen?" Narrow the focus of your question. For example: "What symptoms can I expect?" "Will it affect my ability to work?" etc. Don't be put off if you don't get to ask all your questions. If there are some left over that seem important to you, ask the doctor when the two of you can discuss them. (Survivorship A to Z provides a Prioritizer to help keep track of your questions or concerns as they arise, and then to prioritize them before your doctor's appointment).
• About anything that does not seem clear. If you don't say anything, the doctor will assume that you understand, or already know the answer or that you don't want more information. There may be uncertainty in medicine, but something is wrong if there is mystery. For example, you can say: "I want to make sure I understand. Could you explain that a little more?" or "I did not understand that word. What does it mean?"
• Perhaps the doctor can show you a model or point you to a graphic or draw something for you. This would be particularly helpful if you are a visual person: a person who understands better when you see things.
• If the subject is changed before you understand, then return to the subject before the end of the meeting, or call afterward for an explanation. The easiest way to confirm you understand is to repeat what was said, but repeat it in words you understand.

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