Talking with your doctor

It can be hard to start a talk with your doctor about your health concerns.  But your doctor wants to know about your symptoms, emotions, treatment preferences, and general well-being.  Think of your doctor as your partner.

Build a relationship with him or her.
Tell him or her what you want from your care and that you'd like to be partners in your health.
Be fully present in each visit.  Listen carefully.  If you do not understand something, ask questions.
If you have doubts about following through on a treatment plan or suggestion, speak up.  Often there is more than one option for treating a condition.  By being a partner in your care, you can help choose the option that best fits your values, beliefs, and lifestyle.  You also will feel more certain about following your doctor's recommendations when you make the decision together.

Write down the topics and questions you want to discuss with your doctor. 
Bring your medicines or a list of them with you even if they are over the counter medicines, herbal remedies, or vitamins.  You and your doctor can review how much of each medicine to take and when to take each one.
If you have seen a doctor before for a similar problem, even if the visit was many years ago, take the record from the visit with you.
Tell your doctor about your main concern first.
Describe any past experiences with the same problem.
Take notes.