Note: This article is over 60 days old, and may contain information that is out of date, or has been superseded by newer information.
Have you ever left a doctor's appointment with more questions than when you came in?
Your doctor wants to listen fully to you and give you the best care possible, but he/she may not be able to anticipate all of your concerns. Plus, the average physician sees 3-4 patients every hour. Effectively communicating with your physician can help you both get the answers and respect you deserve. Use the tips below to improve communication with your doctor.
Prepare. Before you go to your appointment, write down all the symptoms you are feeling. Be specific. It’s easier for a doctor to diagnose your issue if you offer detailed descriptions. And, when you’re put on the spot in your appointment, it may be hard to remember all your exact symptoms.
Tell the Truth. If a topic embarrasses you, it may be hard to be completely honest about your concerns. Difficult topics like impotence, incontinence, mental problems, or trouble at home, may be hard to bring up. But you must be honest in order to receive proper care. Your doctor has dealt with all sorts of sensitive issues and is a trustworthy resource to help you.
Take Notes. Bring a pen and paper with you to your next appointment. It is easy to forget technical information after your visit. And, if you are facing an important health care decision, you may be too emotional to remember or comprehend all your doctor tells you.
Ask About Medications. When your doctor prescribes a new medication, be sure to ask important questions about the drug. You will want to know the name, the type of medication, how long you should take it, and why your doctor is prescribing it.
Say It in Your Own Words. At the end of your visit, sum up your doctor’s diagnosis in your own words. Describing out loud your understanding of your diagnosis, treatment options, and prescribed medications will help clear up any confusion.
At your next appointment, remember S.B.A.R.
A 2006 study found that over 65% of medical errors were caused by lack of communication. To help combat this problem, doctors and nurses started using a communication strategy abbreviated SBAR. Just as it has helped medical staff, this tool can help you communicate with your doctor on your next visit.
SBAR stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, Request. The method was originally developed by US Navy submariners to improve communication in stressful situations. SBAR helps you identify important facts, organize relevant information, and bridge gaps in communication styles.
Situation: Briefly state your reason for the visit. (for example: pain, new symptoms, medication request)
Background: Explain any pertinent past medical history. Include allergies, current medications including vitamins and herbal supplements, and how long you have had current problem.
Assessment: Describe what you think is the problem. Say what makes your issue problem better or worse. Talk about which body parts are affected, symptoms, and changes in symptoms.
Request: Ask what you would like done. This can as simple as, “I want to feel better, what can I do?” Even though you are not making the final decision with your care, you are opening up dialog with your physician by outlining your thoughts.
= open external link in new window