Prepare for your visit by writing down:
The signs and symptoms you are experiencing
Any background information you think might be important
All the questions you want to ask.
Take the piece of paper along with you and don’t be afraid to refer to it
during the consultation.
Ask your doctor about the treatment options for your condition. Often there
are different ways to treat the same illness and some may suit you better
than others.
If your doctor prescribes medication, ask about the expected results, the
possible side-effects and exactly how to take it.
If you don’t understand something your doctor has told you, ask for
clarification. If you are worried you might forget information or
instructions, ask your doctor to write it down or write it down yourself.
If your doctor recommends a test, always chase up the results. Don’t assume
that no news is good news.
If you have any doubts about your doctor’s diagnoses and treatment, don’t be
afraid to seek a second opinion. It’s your right.
To avoid any embarrassment for both yourself and your doctor, always ask
about the costs of consultations, tests and treatments in advance.
