How To Talk To Your Health Care Provider
January 13, 2022
Starting a conversation with your health care provider can be difficult. It is important, though, that you feel comfortable asking questions and taking an active role in your medical care.
“It is your health and your body. It is important for you to have input into your own care, whether it’s a medication or procedure,” says Dr. Lloyd Kapp, a medical director with BlueChoice HealthPlan of South Carolina. “The doctor or provider is there to guide your treatment.”
Here are a few ways to start the conversation.
Have a plan.
Your visit might be quick, but understanding your care choices is key. Go into your appointment knowing what you want to discuss or any concerns you have.
Your visit may be only 15 – 20 minutes. Know what topics you want to address. Write down any questions you may have before your visit so you don’t forget to ask something.
Remember, you know yourself and your body best. Talking about your concerns with your provider is vital.
Build a relationship.
You might think visiting your health care provider is a yearly chore or something you do only when sick. Even so, it is critical to have a provider you know and trust.
“Health is very personal. You may have health concerns that are very uncomfortable or difficult to talk about. Having a provider you feel comfortable talking with and being able to bring up all aspects of how you are feeling is really important,” Kapp says.
Be open.
The best way for care providers to offer the right care at the right time is for you to be open, honest and clear about any concerns or worries.
When care providers ask for information that might feel embarrassing, be honest. Your honest answers will help your provider find the right treatment or diagnosis.
There may be things you talk about with your provider that you wouldn’t talk about with a family member or close friend. But remember, anything you tell your provider is protected by privacy laws.
Don’t be afraid to ask.
Sometimes the information your provider shares may not be clear. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If a provider is using too many unfamiliar medical terms, ask him or her to simplify it.
“When you ask questions of your provider, it helps you better understand a potential diagnosis or treatment plan,” Kapp says.
If you have a concern, don’t be afraid to let your provider know.
Be a team.
If your provider suggests treatment, ask questions and make decisions. Take an active role in your own treatment.
Not sure what to ask? Start with these five questions:
- Do I really need this test or procedure?
- What are the risks and side effects?
- Are there simpler, safer options?
- What happens if I don’t do anything?
- How much does this treatment cost? Will my insurance pay for it?
“It is important for patients to understand that health care providers don’t always have a specific diagnosis. That can be frustrating. But knowing how to communicate with them will help you make sense of your own health,” Kapp says.