Talking to your doctor or midwife can be frightening, here's how to make sure you get the info you need.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 20 minutes
Here's How:
- Make a list of questions before your visit.
- Consider taking someone with you so you can remember the answers, or for support.
- Be positive, never attack.
- Word your questions carefully to ensure you get the information you need.
- Remember why you picked your practitioner in the first place. Was it the great bedside manner? Or how well they explained things?
- Don't be defensive. Be willing to listen.
- Give the practitioner time to answer, even if that means that the answer will be next visit.
- Don't be afraid to ask for specifics. The hows, whys, etc.
- If you have a disagreement on an issue, ask for additional information or offer to bring in supporting information.
- Be sure to ask additional questions that come up during the course of the conversation.
- If you need more time ask if you can come back and schedule a longer visit just to talk.
Tips:
- Be aware of their time just as you wish them to be aware of yours.
- Remember that you do have a choice in your health care and that includes which practitioner you use.
- If you are unable to resolve a conflict or disagreement seek the advice of another practitioner.
What You Need:
- Something to write with
