Yesterday in my blog, I mentioned that doctors are under pressure to see so many patients per hour. The doctor feels pushed for time. This leaves many patients feeling that their doctor has not listened to them. The problem seems to be even worse for female patients. There are simple strategies to get yourself heard.
- Doctors are trained to ask a series of questions to help them make a diagnosis. You should be able to tell when those occur and answer them as best you can. For example, your doctor might ask you exactly where is the pain? You should answer verbally; it’s here on my left side and pointed directly at the area.
- When asked a yes or no question, add your story to it. For example, yes, but the pain seems to travel… Or no, but the pain seems to…
- Don’t be afraid to ask your own questions. For example, can you explain why you asked me that question? You may be surprised to find the doctor is only trying to get more information to determine the cause of your symptoms.
- Don’t be afraid to interrupt the doctor. After all, you are trying to get the doctor as much information as you can. For example, if you’re describing pain that has suddenly appeared and the doctor interrupts you and ask when it started, go back to your narrative. Instead of just giving the doctor a time like 7 PM, say it seems to occurs not long after supper and…
- Let your doctor know your concerns. If a family member died of cancer and had symptoms similar to yours, tell the doctor.
- Lastly, keep the conversation friendly. Your doctor is trying to help you. Don’t get disturbed when the doctor tells you something you don’t understand. Simply say, I don’t understand that. Can you please explain it to me in a different way?
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