Work With Your Doctor

It's in your best interest to play an active role during visits to your doctor. This approach can help the doctor make the best choices about your care. The following are some helpful tips on working closely with your doctor.

Be Prepared

Plan for your visit
Doctors' offices are often busy and run on a tight schedule. With limited time to speak with your doctor, it's important to make sure your concerns are addressed.

It's helpful to prepare notes on what you want to address. You may want to discuss changes in your health, ask questions about your stent procedure and your treatment, or talk about support groups or other resources that could help your recovery.

Take notes on your conversation
Use a notebook to take notes each time you speak with your doctor. This helps make sure you get the information you need. This way you also have something to refer to in the future. If note taking is difficult, you could try using a tape recorder.

Be a good listener
Each time your doctor addresses one of your concerns or makes a recommendation, repeat the information back to him or her. This technique, known as active listening, helps you better absorb the information and lets the doctor know whether he or she has been clear.

Bring your friends and family
There will be much to cover in very little time during your doctor visit. It makes sense to bring a family member, friend, or someone else you're close to. They can help listen, ask questions, take notes, or simply offer love and support.

Don't downplay your symptoms
Be honest with your doctor and discuss if you are having a negative reaction or experiencing pain. If you say something like "everything's fine" or "it's nothing," you run the risk of not getting the best care and advice your doctor can offer. So let the doctor know how you're really feeling and don't downplay something that could be important.

You can also read some important questions to ask your doctor and some tips for making a checklist of things to bring.