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How to Get the Most Out of Your Doctor's Visit
"Have you ever gone to the doctor and not understood what you were told? Has he or she used medical jargon that is over your head? Have you left the physician's office not understanding the next steps? Or felt like your doctor doesn't understand what you are going through? Well, you're far from alone.Many people have a hard time communicating with their physicians. But research shows that effective communication with your doctor, including understanding your diagnosis and treatment plan, plays an important role in your recovery time and overall improvement. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recognizes this and is taking steps to ensure that you get the most out of your visit with the orthopaedic surgeon. "Orthopaedic surgeons want to connect with their patients. They want their patients to trust and respect them, which in turn will likely make their patients more compliant with a treatment program," says William Schreiber, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon and patient-physician communications trainer. "In order for this to happen, physicians need to learn to communicate better and a communications program like this will help them do that." Proper communication with a patient will ensure that the best medical attention is given; the relationship between a physician and patient should be viewed as a partnership, with each partner's contribution considered equal in importance.As a patient, there are certain actions you can take to ensure a good relationship with your physician. Following is a checklist and tips to help you and your doctor discuss the issues most important to help you get the most out of the visit:Before seeing the doctor, prepare a list of questions and points you would like to address. It may be beneficial to take notes during the visit.Be honest and complete when talking with your doctor. Share your point of view and don't hold back information about issues that you might consider embarrassing. Make sure the physician explains medical terminology that you don't understand, as well as recommendations regarding treatment and medication.Ask what to expect from the treatment, the effect it will have on your daily activities and what you can do to prevent further disability. Make sure your doctor provides you with handouts or brochures that you and your family members can review at home. Ask a family member or friend to go with you to your next visit. This person can help ask questions and address concerns in areas where you have forgotten or weren't able to address.Follow the doctor's instructions. Take the full course of medication and make sure you follow the prescribed diet and/or exercise routine.If something is confusing or does not seem right, call the doctor's office for advice. His or her staff often knows the answer. If you are not getting the answers you need, try to communicate this to your physician. If he or she does not respond, it may be beneficial to seek another opinion.Your recovery is important. Physicians are there to make your ailments better. Continued dialog between you and your doctor will help you establish a partnership, which in turn, may make your recovery quicker. Visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: www.aaos.orgSource: ARA Content This article is new this week in The Business Journal's small business how-to section. To see what else is new, click here or click on the "how-to" tab at the top of The Daily Business Journal Online home page."