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However, some find it challenging due to previous encounters or hearsay. When one leaves a medical appointment uncertain about communication the experience colors future dialogues with physicians. Those who have had adverse interactions with doctors may bring a negative mindset, even when the current physician is an excellent listener. Read the following for a few tips on communicating with your doctor.

Be Proactive

Doctors do not read minds. Talk to your doctor about each concern and trust his decision about diagnosis and treatment. Without an honest dialogue, the physician may assume you have all the information needed or have no new questions about your current health.

Medical terminology is its own distinctive language. As a patient, never pretend you understand. Ask questions and request explanations until you have a complete understanding. Most physicians are able to rephrase words in order to present a clear picture of the topic being discussed.

Instructions for home care or medications need to be understandable. Four pills a day could have several interpretations. Could the dose be four separate times in a 24-hour period? perhaps all at once? daytime or before bedtime? It is vital the doctor’s intentions are clearly understood to avoid over or under-medicating.

Be Prepared

You may have many questions when experiencing changes in your health. Unfortunately, symptoms may disappear when at the doctor’s office. Prepare for appointments by listing your concerns. Keep a diary or list of what has occurred, the intensity and what may have triggered the event. These details share the information needed to make an accurate diagnosis.

A list of multiple questions could dwindle to one or two when face to face with your doctor. Writing them down will safeguard all the questions are addressed.

Technology allows clinics to have questions emailed to doctors prior to scheduled appointments. This opportunity allows answers to be ready before the meeting. If this benefit is accessible, take advantage of it.

Take Notes

Your doctor visit may include an abundance of information, especially if there are a number of questions. Take notes or have another person with you to help remember. This is particularly helpful when facing a serious health issue.

Information About Medical Tests

There is no doubt aging brings changes. New tests are in place with researched evidence of diagnostic occurrences due to age, regardless of symptoms being present. These tests primarily set a baseline for future testing. As an example, an initial colonoscopy will reveal the condition of your colon and determines a baseline for further colonoscopies. Changes noticed on future tests will be noted and addressed.

When a doctor recommends testing ask why it is necessary. Learn if there are preparations needed before testing. Some tests require fasting before being administered. Ask about possible side effects. Dyes used in certain tests could cause an allergic reaction. Next time try these tips when communicating with your doctor.

Ask when to expect results and if you will receive them electronically, by mail or telephone. A written copy of the results should be made available to you. If the test is given by a specialist, request a copy of the results is sent to your primary care physician.

Aging provides many challenges but also numerous opportunities for an improved quality of life. Transitioning to a new way of living is an exciting opportunity. Bridge to Better Living has resources, knowledge and personal understanding to assist with the transitions Seniors and their loved ones confront. Contact Bridge to Better Living for additional information and to schedule a consultation. There is no cost. Bridge to Better Living believes in Placement with Passion.