How to Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

How to talk to your healthcare provider

Tips on Improving Communication

Having good communication between you and your healthcare providers is important for your health. Sharing all information with your healthcare provider about your health situation is key to receiving the proper quality of care. The challenge is that most appointments with your healthcare provider are short. Here are a few suggestions to help get the most out of your visits when seeing your healthcare provider.
Before your Appointment:
  • Make a list of 2-3 things you most want to talk about with your provider and bring this list to your appointment.
  • Make a list of past and current health problems, including surgery or treatments. It is also important to include medications that have caused unwanted side effects.
  • Keep a list of all healthcare providers that you are currently seeing.
  • Bring a list of your most current medications including dose, frequency, and reason for taking, plus a list of your vitamin supplements.
  • Bring pen and paper.  
  • If possible bring a family member/friend/caregiver that can assist with providing information that you might overlook or forget.
 
After your Appointment:
 
  • Update your personal medical record any time anything changes (i.e., medications, procedures). 
  • Contact your doctor with any changes such as new symptoms and/or any visits to the hospital since your last doctor’s visit. 
Also always remember to consult with your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Reference: www.cdc.gov, www.mayoclinic.com