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3 Good Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Visiting the doctor can be confusing. Everyone feels a bit overwhelmed when trying to understand what the doctor is saying. The next time you visit the doctor, try asking these three questions:

1. 1. What is my main problem?
2. 2. What do I need to do?
3. 3. Why is it important for me to do this?

You should ask these questions at every visit and any time you feel confused. You can also ask the doctor to give you a written list of instructions to take home. If you still don’t understand, let your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist know.

If you take a family member to the doctor, make sure you understand their health needs. For example, if you take your child to a wellchild visit, you should ask questions about your child’s health.

The doctor and nurse may seem to be in a hurry, but they really want to make sure that you understand your health. Don’t leave with any unanswered questions about your care! If you understand your health, you will be better able to take care of yourself and your family at home.

Information for this article was gathered from the Partnership for Clear Health Communication, at www.askmethree.org/for_patients.asp.