Getting the most from your doctor

There are steps you can take before an appointment to make sure you get the most out of seeing your doctor.

Try to prepare some questions before hand about your condition and what you want to know. Perhaps do some reading as this may raise more areas you would like to discuss and help you in the language you use in your questions.

When you talk to your doctor, ask specific questions. If you ask questions about yourself and the way that your condition is affecting you, it will be easier for your doctor to answer. Try to stick to one topic at a time. If you think of something new you want to ask, wait until you've finished with the first question before you start the new one. If you don't understand a word or phrase the doctor uses, or something they say, ask them to explain it. If you think it seems confusing you could try repeating back to the doctor what you think they mean, then they can see if you have understood or not. You may also find it useful to take some notes of what your doctor is saying to you, or ask for some written information that you can take away with you.

If you disagree with something the doctor says give reasons why you disagree and try to give suggestions as to what you think might work instead and why.

If you feel uncomfortable asking questions you could try:

  • writing to the doctor - if there is a letter in your file the doctor is less likely to pass over the question,
  • getting someone to ask for you, or having someone with you in your consultation

Planning your next steps

Agree with your doctor a timescale for reviews if necessary. The doctor might want you to see how the medication suits you first before s/he agrees a review date but remember, even if you do agree a date but something about the treatment is bothering you or you want to discuss a different issue before this date, contact the surgery for an appointment with a nurse or a doctor.

Further information