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How to Communicate Better With Your Doctor

An inability to communicate with our doctors is not uncommon. Sometimes we leave the doctor's office with a prescription to relieve our symptoms but without a real understanding of our condition. We may feel intimidated or, knowing how busy doctors are, not want to bother them with our questions and concerns.

Good medical care is the result of a partnership between a healthcare professional and a patient. This partnership should be based on effective communication. Patients who communicate well with their physicians tend to be more satisfied with their care, are less anxious during examinations and follow prescribed treatments more closely.

The following tips can help you communicate better with your doctor and enable you to take a more active role in your healthcare:

• Be prepared to describe your symptoms accurately. For example, how often the problem occurs, whether it's associated with certain foods, medications or activities. Having notes to refer to may help you answer your doctor's questions better.

• Relax! Some topics may be difficult or embarrassing to discuss at first, but a doctor who is sensitive to your needs will make you as comfortable as possible. To develop an open relationship with your doctor, you must share the information he or she needs to diagnose and treat your condition. Answer questions honestly, even though the information may be embarrassing. It may help to tell the doctor, "It's not easy for me to talk about this."

• Make a list of your questions beforehand. Bring it with you on your office visit so you won't forget anything important. Tell the doctor right away you have some questions and ask for the best time to discuss them. If you don't understand the answers, ask for clarification or an explanation in less technical language. Take notes of your doctor's answers.

• Bring a family member or friend with you if you don't think you'll remember all the information. This is especially helpful if you expect the news may be disturbing.

• Find out the best way to get information later on. Can you call the office if you think of more questions? If so, is there a time when the doctor prefers to take telephone calls?

• Is your doctor the most appropriate person to answer your questions? For example, could your pharmacist answer questions about medications and their side effects? Questions about treatment costs, billing, insurance or office procedures might be better directed to the physician's office staff.