Five Helpful Doctor’s Office Tips

Going to the doctor can be time-consuming and expensive, so make sure you get the most out of your visit. Here are five tips to keep in mind to avoid unnecessary suffering and wasted healthcare dollars the next time you go in for a check-up.

1. DON’T BE SHY. Ask questions until you’re satisfied with the answers. Be curious about your diagnosis and treatment, and ask things such as, “What else could this be?” You need to fully understand your condition to be able to help your body heal.

2. GET A SECOND OPINION. They say doctors know best, but it never hurts to be sure. Focus on telling doctors all your symptoms, and refrain from guiding them toward what the first doctor said you have.

3. KNOW YOUR FAMILY MEDICAL HISTORY. And make sure your doctor knows it. Studies show that your family history may tell you more about what kinds of illnesses you may have or are likely to get than even genetic testing can tell you.

4. BRING A FRIEND. It’s hard to comprehend difficult medical news and simultaneously remember all the details. Bring along a trusted friend or family member to remind you of questions you want to ask and to write down important notes.

5. HAVE YOUR PATHOLOGY RECHECKED. If you had a biopsy and your diagnosis is based on your pathology report, see if you can have it reviewed again. Pathology is incorrectly interpreted more often than you’d think, and if that interpretation is wrong your diagnosis—and subsequent treatment—will probably be wrong, too. Source: Best Doctors, Inc