Communication is key to better health!
http://cancerkn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/doctor-talking-to-patient.jpg
Gone are the days of "Don't question the doctor because the doctor knows best!" Yet, some patients are still stuck in that mind set. It's true that doctors are much more educated than the average person but there is a reason the term "practicing medicine" has been used for so long. Healthcare and medicine are subjects that always keep us learning. There is NO WAY anyone can know it all. Also, what works for one person may not work for another. Medications can affect people in different ways too!
You, the patient, know your body and your symptoms better than anyone and you can explain them better. For your healthcare provider to be able to give you the best care possible he/she must be well informed-not just about the latest technology and drugs but about what's going on with you. Make note of changes you experience, when they started, how long they last, things you may be doing differently from your normal routine and even changes in your environment and lifestyle. All these things, no matter how insignificant they may seem, can be a factor in your current medical situation. By relaying this information to your provider you are allowing for a more thorough assessment of your condition and more options for treatment. Research shows that patients who have good communication with their doctor and take an active role do better, heal quicker and usually stay healthier.
Don't be afraid of 'offending' your provider by asking questions! They are there to take care of you and by a positive interchange of information he/she can do that job much better and your satisfaction will be much higher. If a test is recommended, ask why you need it and what may happen if you don't do it; same with medications. You should ALWAYS know what drug you are taking, why, what it treats, what it is supposed to do and what the side effects and adverse reactions are. If your doctor acts defensive from your questions, tell him/her that you want to be active in your own care and want to understand your treatment. If they still are less than amicable with your shown interest, find another provider that is willing to participate in a 2 way communication with you. Your health is worth it!
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/be-your-own-health-advocate
http://cancerkn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/doctor-talking-to-patient.jpg
Gone are the days of "Don't question the doctor because the doctor knows best!" Yet, some patients are still stuck in that mind set. It's true that doctors are much more educated than the average person but there is a reason the term "practicing medicine" has been used for so long. Healthcare and medicine are subjects that always keep us learning. There is NO WAY anyone can know it all. Also, what works for one person may not work for another. Medications can affect people in different ways too!
You, the patient, know your body and your symptoms better than anyone and you can explain them better. For your healthcare provider to be able to give you the best care possible he/she must be well informed-not just about the latest technology and drugs but about what's going on with you. Make note of changes you experience, when they started, how long they last, things you may be doing differently from your normal routine and even changes in your environment and lifestyle. All these things, no matter how insignificant they may seem, can be a factor in your current medical situation. By relaying this information to your provider you are allowing for a more thorough assessment of your condition and more options for treatment. Research shows that patients who have good communication with their doctor and take an active role do better, heal quicker and usually stay healthier.
Don't be afraid of 'offending' your provider by asking questions! They are there to take care of you and by a positive interchange of information he/she can do that job much better and your satisfaction will be much higher. If a test is recommended, ask why you need it and what may happen if you don't do it; same with medications. You should ALWAYS know what drug you are taking, why, what it treats, what it is supposed to do and what the side effects and adverse reactions are. If your doctor acts defensive from your questions, tell him/her that you want to be active in your own care and want to understand your treatment. If they still are less than amicable with your shown interest, find another provider that is willing to participate in a 2 way communication with you. Your health is worth it!
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/be-your-own-health-advocate
