Common Questions to ask Your Doctor

Apr 22
04:05

2022

Marshall Thurlow

Marshall Thurlow

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When it comes to your health, it pays to ASK QUESTIONS of your doctor so that you can make an informed decision!

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Don’t be shy - ask these questions

We highly encourage you to know everything you can about your health. In this article,Common Questions to ask Your Doctor Articles we will discuss some health tips and give sample questions to ask your doctor. You will be able to maximise your healthcare if you're fully informed, and that involves asking questions. 

Tip #1: Play an active role in your health 

To play an active role in your healthcare, participate in all treatment choices and decision-making. Make a copy of your directives and provide it to your healthcare practitioner to get a possible second opinion. If you are too ill or stressed to do this on your own, ask a trustworthy family member or friend to accompany you to your doctor's appointment. 

Just in case it is necessary, there are many different types of healthcare professionals that your GP may refer you to, should a more targeted approach be needed. 

For example, your GP may refer you to a dermatologist for a skin rash or skin condition. You may also be referred to a chiropractor or physiotherapist, should you have muscular pain or lower back pain. Find out more about back pain at The Back Clinic here.

Tip #2: If you have any questions or concerns, speak up

You have the right to ask anyone who is involved in your care. It can help to jot down questions to ask the next time you visit your doctor to ensure you have all of the information you require. This information can be a set of questions, information about certain procedures and medication, and information about how long it will take to recover (if applicable).

Tip #3: Before consenting to any surgery, ask healthcare staff what they intend to do

Before surgery, healthcare practitioners should inform you of their plans. It is crucial to understand your symptoms, the diagnosis, and its causes. This includes possible medications and treatment as well as the reason behind it. Find out more about common surgical procedures here.

Tip #4: Bring a list of your medications and any allergies to your doctor

This list should include all pharmaceuticals, home remedies, and herbal medications if any, as well as tea, vitamins, and recorded weight gain or loss. You may even include information about your food intake. There could be dietary restrictions especially if you will be asked to take specific kinds of medicines.

Learn about the medications you're taking, why you're taking them, and any potential side effects. Inform the doctors of any allergies you have, as well as the sort of reaction or side effects you usually experience. During your checkup, make sure to ask questions about the medicines you've been prescribed.

Here are some medically-related questions you can ask the next time you see your doctor.

Questions about symptoms or the diagnosis:

  • Why do I experience body pain?
  • How serious is this condition? 
  • What causes this condition?
  • Could this be genetic?
  • What are the effects- both long-term and short-term?
  • Questions about the treatment or surgery:
  • How is this condition treated?
  • How long does the process take?
  • What are the side effects?
  • Is this condition recurring?
  • What are the risks of having surgery?
  • How will my personal life be affected by this?
  • How much will the treatment cost?
  • Will my health insurance cover the cost?

Wrap Up

These are just some initial questions you may ask your doctor or any other healthcare worker. A primary care doctor’s purpose is to assess your health risks and give recommendations to help you take control of your health. This means getting a comprehensive picture of your health. This way, you may prevent possible issues from recurring. 

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