Learning How to Improve Communications With Doctors

One thing that we all know is how limited our time is with each Doctor visit. I have heard many say that they basically keep one foot out the door. Well again, we have a sicker population now, the average medical professionals are seeing increased number of patients, then we have those that have had to be worked in for whatever reason. Knowing your visit is indeed timed, being prepared especially when having a problem is important.

Have things written down such as when did the problem begin, has it gotten worse or stayed the same, any and all medications you are currently on and have taken to treat the current problem. Are the symptoms ongoing or periodic, what makes it worse or better, how often you have experienced this before, or anything you feel is important to inform to assist with obtaining a diagnosis. I can tell you there are many who come in unprepared who can't remember a lot when these questions are asked. Also we tend to forget things which is why they ask additional questions trying to help provide a direction for treatment. It would great if you could start writing down our daily experiences when we make the appointment to help keep track. I see a monthly chronic pain doctor so yes it helps for me to keep a daily pain journal. Usually this help me accurately provide details as; if medication is working during the prescribed times, having any break through pain and levels, experiencing any side effects from the meds, or if I have had to add any OTC treatments. This information also helps when completing the forms of how we did the past month plus confirms why we may need to change medications, add to, or if a potential problem such as an allergy is setting up.

Having a visual for the Doctor may also assist if we verbally have difficulty explaining what is going on, if your provider has difficulty listening or even interrupts often breaking your train of thought. It can be included in your medical records which helps when seeing a provider that is not familiar with you/filling in if your doctor is out. This list can be pulled for future visits in case dictation didn't cover the list. Office visits are often rushed, interrupted by phone calls or office personnel needing to speak to the Dr, or surrounded by students in training. Remembering, being factual, all inclusive are our part of communication with any healthcare provider. The better we present our issues hopefully the better the outcome with obtaining a correct diagnosis, reduce the need for tests that aren't needed to be diagnosed, promote a cost savings for us and a successful outcome. I can't find one negative with this can you?