Ask These 7 Questions at the Doctor's Office

Have you ever gotten home from the doctor's office and suddenly thought of three questions you wish you would have asked?

You're not alone. 

Many people leave appointments feeling confused. Not because they weren't paying attention, but because health can be completely overwheleming. New words, new medicines, and a lot of information at once can be hard to process. The visits are short and healthcare providers try to squeeze in all the information they can. 

The good news is it's always okay to ask questions at the doctor's office!

Why Asking Questions Matters

1. Healthcare providers love questions! It shows that you are a willing participant in your health. It also reminds them that simple is best - sometimes we tend to explain too much, and we have to keep it simple!
2. Nurses and Doctors want to help you. They would not have chosen healthcare if they weren't naturally helpful. If you are not understanding something we are showing you, say so! Our very first way to help you is to help you understand. 
3. Patients who ask questions are more likely to be successful in managing their health. This is true for every medical condition, medication or treatment. If you fully understand it, you're more likely to do it right and stay healthy for a very long time. 
4. Asking questions can help relieve nerves, fear and shame. Health conditions are unique to each person, and fully understanding your health gives you confidence. Confidence keeps anxiety away - and helps you live a long, healthy life!
5. Questions can help you notice problems sooner, before they become BIG problems. What may seem small to you may be the missing link to your healthcare puzzle. As we say in the hospital - if you see something, say something!

Good Questions to Ask

There are no bad questions in healthcare. That being said, there is no question too big or too small while you're at the doctor's office. Here are a few good questions to ask at every visit. 

• What is the most important thing to do first?
• Can you explain that in a simple way?
• What happens if I don't do this?
• When should I follow up with you about this?

If you are put on a new medication, ask anything you can think of! One of the most important factors is that you continue taking the medicine as long your provider recommends. A few good questions to ask about medications are:

• Are there side effects?
• How do we know that the medication is working?
• What do I do if I miss a dose?

Staying consistent with prescribed medications is the top reason for success!

Before You Leave the Doctor's Office

Doctor's Office visits are incredibly short, with a lot of information. Before you leave the office, repeat the plan back to your healthcare provider. Keep it simple, and say something like "So I'm going to...." This will give your healthcare team one last chance to correct misunderstandings. 

Remember - you don't need to understand every single thing in one visit.  Good healthcare is a conversation. Don't be afraid to call the office. You're not bothering anyone, and really, that is what we are there for. We get paid to answer your questions!

Final Encouragement

Asking questions at the doctor's office is an important part of taking care of yourself. If you don't know what to do, you can't take good care of you! That's really what this comes down to. Your healthcare team is partnering with you for a long, healthy life. No question is off the table. We're here to help!