It's not over! Appointment follow-up
It's important to give your doctor all the information she needs to make an accurate diagnosis. Patients sometimes feel embarrassed by their symptoms or worried about what the doctor will think, but this isn't the time for modesty or vague descriptions. However personal and intimate your medical details might seem to you, remember that your doctor is a professional who's seen and heard it all before. Don't shortchange yourself and your successful medical diagnosis by giving incomplete or exaggerated information.
If your doctor recommends tests, make sure you understand what's being ordered and why. Don't be embarrassed to ask to have something repeated or explained in a simpler way.
If you don't understand the information your doctor is giving you -- whether it's because of a language barrier or medical terminology -- let the doctor know. Your health is far too important to let minor language and vocabulary issues stand in the way of an accurate diagnosis.
4. Maximize your advantage -- following up
Prepare for your follow-up visit in much the same way you prepared for the initial visit. Make a list of your questions and symptoms, including any changes you've noticed since the initial visit.
Regardless of your reasons for making a doctor's appointment, it's critical to understand that you are an important partner in your own health and treatment. Make the very best use of your time (and your doctor's time) by being prepared for the appointment and communicating your needs openly and clearly.
Is there a doctor near your house? Use our guide to find a doctor close to home.
Recommended Reading:
What Your Doctor Wants You to Know But Doesn't Have Time to Tell You by Dr. Virgie Bright-Ellington (Hilton Publishing, 2009).
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