Belize Medical Associates

What can you do to insure that you are going to get the most
 out of your communication with the doctor?

1. Know how to explain the current symptoms or the illness history.

Admit it ... when you go to the doctor, don't you start with what you think you have rather than describing your symptoms? Don't worry. You're not alone. Most patients tend to do this. However, a list of the symptoms is much more important for the doctor than your own suspected diagnosis. To save time, develop a clear description of the symptoms before the visit, not during. Hey, what better way to pass the time in the waiting room while you're waiting to see your doctor?

2. Come up with concrete examples to explain how illness affects your daily life.

Everyday details also help your doctor understand how the medical data translates into real life.

3. Every doctor is different.

It is important that you study your doctor's individual style. What are his/her likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses? Optimistic or pessimistic? Intense or mellow? Organized or absent-minded? Cautious or a risk-taker? The more you understand how your doctor thinks, the more likely you'll know which approaches will work and which won't. Also, ask your doctor whether you can e-mail him/her between your visits. Doctors nowadays have PDAs and Blackberrys and can respond to e-mails quickly when they have a moment or two free.

4. Arm yourself with information.

Once you've been diagnosed by your doctor, go home and do your homework. Learn about your illness so you can ask the right questions and help make informed decisions during your follow up visit. Patients who take an active role in their care do better and earn more respect from the doctor. Not to mention, it is more efficient and you get a lot more out of your follow up visit.

5. Any good relationship is built on a two-way communication path.

Be willing to demonstrate the attitudes that you want from your doctor. If you are abrasive, abusive, or inefficient, you are likely to get a similar reaction from your doctor. Think about how frustrated and overworked you are trying to provide your loved one with excellent care, then think about the doctor who is probably overseeing hundreds of patients just like the one you are caring for. Be kind. If you still have a problem with your doctor, talk to him/her about your concerns.

BELIZE MEDICAL ASSOCIATES:
QUALITY HEALTH CARE, COMPLETE AND AFFORDABLE!!