Press

Ask the Care Manager . . .
By: Darla Heivly, Senior Solutions

Question: When I return from a doctor visit, I usually remember something I forgot to tell or ask the doctor. How can I avoid this?

Answer: You are not alone. Many people who are otherwise intelligent, capable and effective find it difficult to convey their issues fully in a few minutes allotted in the doctor’s office. Outside of the time limitation there are some things you can do to improve your communication with your physician:

• Write down a list of points to cover or questions to ask ahead of time.
• Limit small talk. Pleasantries are nice, but they detract from the total time available to discuss your health.
• Prioritize your concerns. Talk about your greatest issue first and the least pressing issue last. This will help your doctor put your concerns in proper perspective as well.
• Ask your doctor to help you understand information you have learned elsewhere (internet, books, newspaper) and how it may or may not apply to you.
• If you don’t understand what the doctor is telling you, ask him/her to repeat it or rephrase it. Tell the doctor your understanding and ask if your concept is correct.
• Take notes – If writing is difficult, use a tape recorder with the doctor’s permission.
• Bring along a friend, family member or care manager as “another set of ears”. This person can also serve as your note-taker, leaving you free to concentrate on the conversation with the physician. But remember to set up ahead of time whether or when you wish your companion to participate in the conversation.
• If all your questions were not answered in one visit, you may follow-up with a phone call to the doctor or another member of the medical team (nurse, physician assistant). You may even wish to schedule another appointment.
  

Darla Heivly, MS, CMC, is a Certified Geriatric Care Manager with Senior Solutions. Please send your questions to her at ssrsolutions@aol.com or call 610-435-6677.

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