Tips to Improve Communication with your Doctor 

03 Oct Tips to Improve Communication with your Doctor 

Have you ever checked in on your loved one following their latest medical appointment and asked, “How’d it go?”  only for them to shrug their shoulders or respond that they don’t know?

Same here.  So I compiled a checklist of six tips (with a free printable in the resource library), for you to review with your parent or loved one for when they don’t quite understand what their physician is communicating.

First, it’s important to know and understand that, YES, doctors are really busy, BUT it is also important to them that you and/or your family understands your condition as this increases the chances of proper follow up and care when you’re at home.

1. Request he/she to explain your condition and preferred method of treatment in layman’s terms.  

Keep in mind that physicians spend a great deal of time discussing patient care with their colleagues and other healthcare team members, that have a  pre-established understanding of medical terminology. It is perfectly ok for you to request your doctor to speak in terms that you understand.

I personally do the same thing when dropping my car off to the mechanic or when I’m speaking to someone in an IT (information technology, yes, I had to look that up, LOL), department.  I’m a smart person, but what’s basic knowledge for them leaves me with furrowed brows and looking confused. Your physician may not even be aware that they are speaking above your level of understanding, so please don’t be afraid to ask them to simplify.

2. Take notes during your visit or invite someone with you and have them take notes for you.

Never be afraid to take a moment during your visit to jot down notes.  It is not offensive at all. As a matter of fact, it is actually a bit impressive, as it shows that you are demonstrating interest in your care and are invested in the best possible outcomes.  Also, inviting someone that you trust to your appointment is a great ideal as well.

Your physician may request written or verbal permission to discuss your medical condition in front of them, but with your consent, this may be a helpful addition to improving the care between yourself and your physician.

Perhaps you have a friend that has experienced a condition similar to yours, or a family member that has some sort of healthcare background or experience. Between the two of you, you are definitely likely to leave with more confidence and understanding.

3.   Ask your doctor to write it down.

Have you ever requested someone to write something down and once you see it on paper, you realize that you totally misheard him or her?  This has happened to me on multiple occasions, especially with names or directions.

If your doctor recommends a new medication, a different type of testing, refers you to a specialist, etc., feel free to request them to write the information down so that you may go back to it at a later time.

4.   Along with the tip above, Request written materials regarding your condition. 

Physician appointments can be times of high stress; even with our best efforts.  Having written material that explains your condition, signs and symptoms, plan of care for treatment, etc., can all be very helpful to show to a friend or family member later that can help you digest the information.

5.   Request other resources or trusted websites for additional information.

Google can be your best friend and your worst enemy at the same time.  LOL! It is perfectly fine to tell/ask your doctor, “ This is what I read on the Internet, how much of it is true?’  It is also ok to ask your physician if there are any resources or trusted websites that they recommend in order to learn more about your condition or even for various support groups of others going through things similar to you.

6.   Ask other members of your healthcare team such as nurses, pharmacists, or your therapists.

You should never feel alone in your healthcare journey. Always know that you are a priority. To be completely honest, healthcare is changing even more over the next few years and it is crucial to your healthcare team that not only are you aware of your condition, but that you know how to properly care for yourself at home.

If you’re diabetic, it’s important that you’re aware of proper nutrition to keep your blood glucose levels within normal limits.  If you have COPD, and use supplemental oxygen, it’s crucial that you know how to operate your machine effectively as well as monitor your oxygen saturation levels.

My point is that we are moving into a time where individuals and family members will benefit from improved self and diagnostic awareness, so lean on members of your healthcare team to answer any questions that may arise for you or your loved one.

My goal is that these tips will assist you in improving your communication with your physicians.  Don’t forget that there’s a cheat sheet checklist in the resource library that is available for you to print or save to your digital devices.

As always, we’re here for you!